We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Southampton. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Southampton in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Southampton and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Southampton and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Southampton so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Southampton?

Renting a car in Southampton offers unparalleled flexibility to explore both the city's rich maritime heritage and the picturesque countryside of Hampshire. With your own vehicle, you can easily visit historic sites, enjoy coastal drives, and access attractions that are less reachable by public transport.

Additionally, having a car allows you to embark on day trips to nearby destinations such as the New Forest National Park or the Isle of Wight, enhancing your travel experience with the freedom to set your own itinerary and pace.

Car rental tips for Southampton

  • Southampton Airport hosts several car rental agencies, allowing travellers to pick up a vehicle upon arrival. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and better rates.
  • Driving in Southampton's city centre can be busy, particularly during rush hours. Plan your travel times accordingly to avoid congestion, and be mindful of bus lanes and pedestrian zones.
  • If you intend to visit the Isle of Wight, check ferry schedules and book your car's passage in advance. Some rental companies may have restrictions on taking vehicles on ferries, so confirm this beforehand.
  • Exploring the New Forest by car offers access to scenic routes and remote areas. Be cautious of free-roaming animals on the roads, and adhere to local speed limits to ensure safety.

FAQs about renting a car in Southampton

What is the recommended car type/category?

A compact or mid-sized car is ideal for navigating Southampton's urban areas and the surrounding countryside. If you plan to explore rural regions or the New Forest, a vehicle with good fuel efficiency and comfortable seating is recommended for longer drives.

What are the parking options?

Southampton offers various parking options, including on-street parking, multi-storey car parks, and park-and-ride facilities. It's advisable to check for any parking restrictions or fees, especially in the city centre.

What's the speed limit?

In the UK, the speed limits are 30 mph (48 km/h) in built-up areas, 60 mph (97 km/h) on single carriageways, and 70 mph (113 km/h) on dual carriageways and motorways. Always adhere to posted signs, as limits can vary in certain areas.

Popular attractions

  • SeaCity Museum: This museum delves into Southampton's maritime history, with a significant focus on the RMS Titanic, which departed from the city in 1912. Interactive exhibits and personal stories provide a poignant insight into the city's connection to the sea.
  • Tudor House and Garden: Dating back to the 15th century, this restored townhouse offers a glimpse into life from the Middle Ages to the Victorian era. The adjacent garden is a serene spot reflecting Tudor horticultural designs.
  • St Mary's Stadium: Home to Southampton Football Club, this modern stadium hosts thrilling football matches and has plans for expansion to enhance the fan experience.
  • God's House Tower: A 13th-century gatehouse that once served as part of the city's defences, now transformed into an arts and heritage venue showcasing local history and contemporary art.
  • Riverside Park: A 32-hectare public park along the River Itchen, offering walking trails, sports facilities, and a miniature railway, making it ideal for family outings.

More places to visit

  • New Forest National Park: A vast expanse of ancient woodlands and heathlands, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting, located just a short drive from Southampton.
  • Isle of Wight: Accessible via a short ferry ride, this island offers beautiful beaches, historic sites, and charming villages, making it a popular day-trip destination.
  • Winchester: An ancient city known for its magnificent cathedral, medieval architecture, and vibrant markets, offering a rich historical experience.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Hire Brands in Southampton

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

10 / 10

Arnold Clark Car Hire

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10 / 10

Keddy Car Hire

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10 / 10

SIXT Car Hire

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10 / 10

AVIS Car Hire

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10 / 10

Budget Car Hire

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10 / 10

Enterprise Car Hire

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9.12 / 10

Europcar Car Hire

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9.08 / 10

Alamo Car Hire

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National Car Hire

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Hertz Car Hire

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Thrifty Car Hire

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Firefly Car Hire

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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

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Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

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Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

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Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

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Southampton: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.