Everything you need to know before renting a car in England

Renting a car in England is highly recommended if you want to visit all the English cities of your choice. Read our tips to find out how.

What type of rental car should I choose for England?

The roads in England are in very good condition. You can therefore choose the category of your choice, according to your preferences and budget. Here is an overview of the most common categories:
  • Economy: Renault Clio or equivalent.
  • SUV: Ford Escape or equivalent.
  • Full-size SUV: KIA Sorento or equivalent.
  • Convertible: Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio or equivalent.
  • Hybrid: Kia Optima or equivalent.
  • Luxury: Chrysler 300 or equivalent.

How to find a cheap rental car in England?

Be on the lookout for the latest offers. You can set up an alert to receive an email or a notification to be alerted of current special offers. Choose your category and precisely define your needs in terms of options to compare prices and find the rental with the best value for money. Choose a rental agency outside an airport to get the best prices. Book in advance and/or prepay your rental. Check uk.getaround.com for more about car hire in England.

What is the minimum age required to rent a car in England?

The minimum age for car hire in England is 21 years old. This applies to both the main driver and additional drivers. Under 25 years of age, the deposit is usually higher and a daily tax is added as an extra charge. In addition, a minimum of one year's driving experience is required.

Is it possible to pay with a debit card?

In England, only credit cards are accepted. Most car hire companies do not accept debit cards, either maxed out or prepaid.

Do I need insurance to rent a car in England?

Yes, if you are not already covered for rentals, add insurance to your rental contract. Often packages include insurance, but it does not cover all situations. If you prefer to play it safe and take extra protection, you can do so for an extra fee.

Can I rent a car with unlimited mileage in England?

Yes, this option is particularly suitable for long distances. And in England, if you want to visit the different points of interest, you will have to drive a few kilometres! Remember to check if the rental car you have chosen has the "unlimited mileage" option and also check that there are no geographical restrictions.

Is it possible to rent a car for a one-way trip to England?

Yes, it is widely available from car rental companies. How does it work in practice? You pick up your vehicle at the rental agency of your choice and return it at another one. This "one-way" formula incurs additional costs to return the vehicle to its agency.