Hitting the UK and renting a car for a short period of time is the best way to get mobile but it might not be the most cost effective. It provides minimal paperwork and flexible durations, ideal until you get into a vehicle thats more permanent. Plus you can collect most car rentals from the major airports across the UK including:
- London Heathrow Airport
- London Gatwick Airport
- London City Airport
- Birmingham International Airport
- Manchester Airport
- East Midland Airport
- Leeds Bradford Airport
Short-Term Rental (Daily/Weekly)
Perfect for short stays, travel or temporary use:
Positives
- Immediate Availability
- No Commitment
- Airport Pickup Possible
- Wide Availability
Negatives
- Expensive long-term
- Limited Customisation
- No choice of car, just a group
Long-Term Rental (Monthly)
A flexible option for expats staying several weeks or months:
Positives
- More cost-effective than daily rental
- Flexible Duration
- Easy to extend
Negatives
- Still more expensive than leasing or subscriptions
- Fewer Premium Vehicle Options
Airport Car Hire
Convenient for arrivals into the UK:
Positives
- Pick-up Immediately after landing
- Convenient Locations
Negatives
- Higher Pricing
- Availability Varies
Car Subscriptions (3 Months Plus)
Ideal for those who want the positives of a rental but without the higer pricing:
Positives
- Choice of Car, Derivative and Colour in most cases
- Low initial charges than a traditional car lease
- Easy online application
Negatives
- More paperwork than a traditional lease
- More expensive than a car lease
- Requires you to apply for the vehicle
Is Rental Right For You?
Rental isn’t right for everyone, but to get you on your feet (or wheels), car hire is one of the quickest and easiest solutions. They are best if:
- You've just arrived in the United Kingdom
- You need a car immediately
- You're staying short term or;
- You need a vehicle on a temporary basis
Car Rental Suppliers in the UK
Here is a selection of car rental providers in the UK:
Enterprise Rent-a-Car
Enterprise is one of the largest and most established car rental companies in the world, known for its extensive UK network and strong focus on customer service. It is particularly popular for both short-term and long-term rentals, making it a reliable option for expats settling into the UK.
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Europcar
Europcar is a major European car rental brand with a strong presence across the UK and internationally. It offers a wide range of vehicles and flexible rental options, making it suitable for both short-term visitors and longer stays.
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Sixt
Sixt is a premium-focused global mobility provider offering car rental, subscriptions, and ride services. It’s known for newer vehicles and a more premium experience, particularly at airports and major UK cities.
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Hertz
Hertz is one of the most recognised global car rental brands, with a long history and a strong presence in the UK. It offers a wide range of vehicles and is especially popular for airport rentals and business travel.
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Greenmotion
Green Motion is a UK-founded car rental company focused on environmentally friendly vehicles and competitive pricing. It offers a strong alternative to larger brands, particularly for budget-conscious and eco-conscious customers.
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Avis
Avis is one of the world’s most recognised car rental brands, with a strong presence across the UK, particularly in airports and major cities. It offers a wide range of vehicles and flexible rental options, making it a reliable choice for expats needing short or medium-term mobility.
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Things to Consider
While car rental is the easiest option, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Insurance can significantly increase costs
- Deposits may be required
- Driving Licence requirements vary by country
- Only group of car offered, not make and model
- More expensive than a car subscription
Rental vs. Subscription vs. Leasing
Option | Flexibility | Cost | Ease for Expats |
|---|---|---|---|
Rental | Very High | High | Very Easy |
Subscription | High | Medium–High | Very Easy |
Leasing | Low | Low | Harder |
Need a Car Right Away?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can expats rent a car in the UK?
Yes, car rental is usually the easiest option for overseas visitors coming to the UK
What documents will I need to rent a car?
Usually the following documents are required:
- Driving Licence
- Payment Card
- Passport
Can I rent a car long-term?
Yes, many of the car rental providers offer long-term car hire services. Although it might be worth considering a car subscription instead.
Is car rental expensive?
Yes, car rental can be more expensive, espeicially when compared to car subscriptions or leasing. Especially if you are looking to take the car longer-term.
Can I use a foreign driving licence?
In many cases yes, but rules depend on your country and the provider you have chosen.