Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at East Midlands Airport, Derby

Reasons to book a car hire at East Midlands Airport

Renting a car at East Midlands Airport (EMA) is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the surrounding attractions with ease. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to visit key sites at your own pace, making it particularly convenient for managing luggage and adhering to flexible travel plans. For those interested in sports and adventure, Donington Park Racing Circuit is a mere 3 km away, while culture enthusiasts can enjoy the historic Melbourne Hall, located just 6 km from the airport. Families will appreciate the natural history exhibits at Wollaton Hall, situated 16 km away, which offers a perfect day out.

A rental car allows you to venture into nearby cities such as Nottingham, 19 km from East Midlands Airport, where you can explore attractions like Nottingham Castle and Old Market Square. Derby, the city in which the airport is located, features notable sites including Kedleston Hall and Elvaston Castle. Furthermore, the broader region of Great Britain, 20 km away, offers additional destinations like the National Memorial Arboretum. Whether you are travelling for leisure or business, a rental car provides the flexibility to make the most of your visit to East Midlands and beyond.

Most popular car hires near East Midlands Airport

• Midsize SUV: This car option is the most popular choice for travellers at East Midlands airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. It's an ideal vehicle for families, couples, or small groups who need extra room for luggage and comfort during their travels. With a midsize SUV, you can enjoy the flexibility to explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace.
• Economy: The economy car is a favourite for those looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing comfort. It comfortably seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families. This compact vehicle allows for easy navigation in urban areas while providing the convenience of luggage space for your journey.
• Compact: Compact cars are also well-booked at East Midlands airport, offering accommodation for up to 5 travellers and space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is versatile and practical for solo adventurers, couples, or families. The compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre through city streets and park in tighter spaces, providing both comfort and convenience for your travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers near East Midlands Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo provides a convenient car hire option with a location situated less than 1 km away from East Midlands airport. This supplier is particularly popular among travellers seeking Compact and Economy vehicles, ensuring that you can find a suitable car for your needs. Enjoy a smooth rental experience with fast check-in and easy return processes, making Alamo a reliable choice for your journey.
• Budget: Budget offers excellent value for money with its rental location also less than 1 km from East Midlands airport. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget is a great option for those looking to hire Compact and Economy cars. Their efficient service ensures that you can get on the road quickly and start exploring the attractions around East Midlands at your own pace.
• Enterprise: With a rental location conveniently located less than 1 km away from East Midlands airport, Enterprise is a strong contender for car hire. This supplier is well-regarded for its selection of Compact and Economy vehicles, catering to a variety of travellers. Enterprise is committed to providing a seamless rental experience, making it an ideal choice for families and business travellers alike.

Where to stay near East Midlands Airport

• Nottingham: Located 19 km away from East Midlands Airport, Nottingham is a vibrant city perfect for families and adventurers. Enjoy landmarks such as Wolla­ton Hall, a natural history museum, or explore the historical Nottingham Castle. The Old Market Square offers a cultural atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for dining and relaxation. With various outdoor activities and nearby parks, Nottingham is best visited during the warmer months for a full outdoor experience.
• Derby: Situated at East Midlands Airport, Derby is known for its stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. Key attractions include Donington Park Racing Circuit, favoured by motorsport enthusiasts, and Kedleston Hall, a historic house offering insight into British heritage. Elvaston Castle provides beautiful gardens for leisurely strolls. Derby’s appeal is particularly strong in spring and summer when outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
• Great Britain: Approximately 20 km from East Midlands Airport, Great Britain features a rich landscape perfect for outdoor pursuits and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy Donington Park Racing Circuit for thrilling motor racing, or explore the National Memorial Arboretum, suitable for family outings. Drayton Manor Theme Park is also a nearby highlight for entertainment. The best time for exploration is during spring and summer when outdoor attractions are most accessible.

9 tips to save on your Airport car hire near East Midlands

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It is generally advisable to book your airport car hire as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Aim to finalise your booking 1-3 months in advance, particularly before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals provide a sensible balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid incurring extra charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, opt for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from East Midlands Airport

The best value period to rent a car from East Midlands Airport is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. January and February also offer good value with slightly low prices and lower demand. In contrast, August sees the highest prices and demand, making it the most expensive month for rentals. July and August are particularly busy, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.7°F (3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.7°F (4.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	46.6°F (8.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	60.8°F (16.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High