Cheap Car Hire
Compare budget car rentals from top providers. Book today, pay at pickup.
From just £8/day
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Book in advance
Prices increase closer to pickup date
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Use our comparison to find best deals
Avoid airport premium
Pick up from city locations for lower rates
Weekly rates
7-day rentals often cost less than 5 days
Cheapest Car Hire Destinations
Popular destinations with the best budget car rental deals.
Finding the Best Cheap Car Hire Deals
Renting a car doesn't have to break the bank. With the right strategies and timing, you can find excellent car hire deals from as little as £8 per day. Our comparison engine searches hundreds of rental companies to find you the best prices, whether you're planning a European road trip or exploring America.
When to Book for the Best Prices
Timing significantly impacts car rental prices. For the best deals:
- Book early: 3-4 weeks ahead for peak season, 1-2 weeks for off-peak
- Avoid peak dates: School holidays, bank holidays, and events drive prices up
- Weekend vs weekday: Business destinations are cheaper on weekends
- Seasonal variations: Mediterranean destinations cost less outside summer
Hidden Costs to Watch For
The advertised daily rate is just the start. Budget-conscious renters should understand common extras:
- Insurance excess: Basic policies often have £1000+ excess
- Young driver fees: Drivers under 25 pay £10-30/day extra
- One-way fees: Returning to a different location adds cost
- Fuel policies: Full-to-full is usually cheapest
- Cross-border fees: Taking cars between countries may incur charges
Small Cars, Big Savings
Economy and compact cars offer the best value for budget travellers. They're not only cheaper to rent but also more economical on fuel—an important consideration when fuel costs can rival the rental price itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find the cheapest car hire?
Book at least 3-4 weeks in advance, compare prices across multiple rental companies, consider off-airport pickup locations, and be flexible with your dates. Our comparison tool searches all major providers to find you the best deal.
What's included in budget car rentals?
Most cheap car hire includes basic insurance, unlimited mileage (varies by country), and standard coverage. Additional extras like GPS, child seats, and additional drivers usually cost extra.
Should I buy extra insurance?
The basic insurance included often has a high excess (£1000-2000). Consider excess reduction insurance through us or your credit card. Check if your travel insurance covers rental car excess.
What documents do I need to hire a car?
You'll need a valid driving licence (held for at least 1 year), credit card in the driver's name for the deposit, and passport or ID. For non-EU licences in Europe, an International Driving Permit may be required.
Is unlimited mileage always included?
Not always. Many European rentals include unlimited mileage, but US and some other markets may have daily limits (100-150 miles) with excess charges. Always check mileage policy before booking—we display this clearly.
What car category is best value?
Economy and Compact cars offer the best value for 2-3 travellers with light luggage. For families or longer trips, mid-size provides more comfort without a huge price jump. SUVs cost more but offer flexibility for varied terrain.
Are there hidden charges in cheap car rentals?
Watch for young driver fees (under 25), additional driver charges, fuel policies, and mandatory local insurance. We display total costs including mandatory extras so you can compare fairly.
When is the best time of year for cheap car hire?
Low season (November-March in Europe, excluding Christmas) offers the cheapest rates. Shoulder seasons offer good value. Summer and school holidays see highest prices. Booking early locks in better rates year-round.