Car Rental Southampton | Cheap Car Hire in Southampton

We’re frequently named as the most trusted travel search site out there. We scan hundreds of trusted travel providers and put it all in one place, allowing you to instantly compare car hire rates and then book with no fees. Here's how to get the most out of your Southampton car rental search.

How to find a cheap car hire deal in Southampton

In Southampton, finding cheap car hire deals is made easy with Skyscanner. With over 10 pickup locations available, you can choose the most convenient spot for your needs. We highlight options with free cancellation, giving you flexibility in your travel plans. To save even more money, look for 'full to full' deals, which mean you only pay for the fuel you use. For added convenience, we also showcase keyless pick-up options to help you avoid queues. Start your search with us today and discover the best car hire deals in Southampton.

The best time to book a car in Southampton

Car hire in Southampton is best booked about a week before your trip to secure a good deal. November is typically the cheapest month, allowing you to save more. During the Southampton International Boat Show, there's a higher demand for car rentals, and availability might become more limited. Planning ahead ensures you get the car you need without any last-minute problems.

What you'll need when hiring a car in Southampton

In Southampton, car hire policies can vary between providers. The minimum driving age in the United Kingdom is 17, but the minimum rental age in Southampton is 21. If you are below a certain age, some companies might apply a young driver surcharge. Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready, including a valid driver's licence and, in some cases, an international driving permit. Skyscanner makes it easy to compare car hire options so you can find the right deal that suits your needs.

Car hire in Southampton: top tips for driving in the United Kingdom

Driving in Southampton, remember that traffic moves on the left side of the road. General speed limits are 70 mph on motorways and expressways, 60 mph on country roads, and 30 mph in cities. Google Maps has comprehensive coverage in this area, making navigation straightforward. London is about 80 miles away, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by car. Bournemouth is just 30 miles distant and takes about 40 to 50 minutes to reach. Brighton is approximately 65 miles away, with a travel time of around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to hire a car in Southampton?

On average, hiring a car in Southampton will set you back around $172 per day or $581 per week.

What is the cheapest car to rent in Southampton?

The cheapest car to rent in Southampton is an intermediate crossover (similar to SUVs). The most popular is Compact, 4-5 doors.

What's the cheapest car hire company in Southampton?

The cheapest car hire company in Southampton is currently Enterprise, followed by Alamo.

What's the cheapest month to rent a car in Southampton?

Bagging the best car hire deal depends on when you book – often, it pays to book your wheels as far in advance as possible. But according to our data, the cheapest month to rent a car in Southampton is currently August.

How much does week-long car hire cost in Southampton?

On average, around $581. But the best price we found for car hire for a week in Southampton is $292.

How do I get the best value car hire in Southampton?

If you're looking for freedom to explore Southampton, choose a car with unlimited mileage, or look for car hire deals with a ’full to full' fuel policy as opposed to a 'half-full to full' one.

We also clearly highlight car and van hire options in Southampton that have free cancellation.

Can I book a one-way car hire in Southampton?

Yes – you can easily find car hire companies that allow you to pick up your car in one place, and then drop it off in another. Just select ‘Return car to a different location’ when you search with us.

Is it worth renting a car in Southampton?

Public transport can only get you so far, and could be tricky to navigate with children or luggage. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, for as long as you want. And you'll be able to discover more outside of Southampton.

Can under 25s hire cars in Southampton?

Most places – Southampton included – allow under 25s to rent a car as long as they provide a valid driver's license and the correct documentation. It may cost slightly more due to a higher insurance excess for young drivers.