Highland Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Highland

Renting a car in Highland is an excellent choice for tourists eager to explore the stunning scenery and attractions at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit iconic sites such as Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, known for its outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. The charming Inverness Castle offers a glimpse into the region's rich culture and history, while Portree Harbour presents beautiful coastal scenery, perfect for a leisurely day by the water.

A car allows for flexible travel plans, making it convenient to venture into nearby cities like Inverness, Fort William, and Oban. In Inverness, you can explore Urquhart Castle and Inverness Cathedral, while Fort William provides access to the Nevis Range Mountain Experience. Oban is known for its picturesque Ganavan Sands and the intriguing War and Peace Museum. Renting a car also facilitates easy luggage management, which is particularly beneficial for families or groups. Overall, a rental car enhances your journey through Highland, providing the freedom to create personalised itineraries and discover the region's natural beauty and cultural treasures.

Most popular car hires in Highland

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for those travelling in Highland, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for a versatile vehicle that offers the freedom to explore at their own pace while managing luggage effortlessly.
• Midsize SUV: If you're travelling with more luggage or prefer extra space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. With its spacious interior, it provides comfort for those longer journeys through the stunning Highland scenery.
• Economy: The Economy car is another well-booked option in Highland, fitting up to 5 travellers with room for 2 medium suitcases. Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families on a budget, this car type offers a practical choice for those looking to explore the region without the need for excessive luggage space. Its efficient design ensures a smooth and cost-effective travel experience.

Where to stay in Highland

• Inverness: A vibrant city in Highland, Inverness offers a rich blend of culture and adventure. Here, you can explore historical sites such as the impressive Inverness Castle and the captivating Urquhart Castle ruins, both suitable for a cultural holiday. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby national parks, perfect for scenic hikes. With local distilleries and restaurants, you'll find a variety of dining options to complement your stay. Inverness is especially delightful in the warmer months, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
• Fort William: Known as the gateway to Ben Nevis, Fort William is a haven for outdoor lovers. The majestic mountain provides thrilling hiking trails and breathtaking views, while attractions like the Nevis Range Mountain Experience offer family-friendly activities. History buffs can visit the ruins of Inverlochy Castle. Fort William has a good selection of restaurants and distilleries, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience. Visiting in spring or summer allows for the best exploration of this scenic area, as the weather enhances outdoor activities.
• Oban: This charming coastal town is renowned for its stunning waterfront and outdoor activities. Oban's Ganavan Sands is perfect for a beach getaway, while Connel Bridge and the Oban War and Peace Museum offer cultural insights. The surrounding national parks and lakes provide ample opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. With a variety of local distilleries and restaurants nearby, Oban ensures a delightful culinary experience. The best time to enjoy Oban's outdoor attractions is during the summer months when the weather is most inviting.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Highland

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often results in lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a balanced approach, providing a combination of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure to return the car empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to circumvent additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Highland

The best value period to rent a car in Highland is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January and November also offer good value, with similar pricing and demand characteristics. However, from May through August, prices tend to rise, peaking in May when demand is moderately high. June and July maintain average prices and demand, while August is the busiest month, often resulting in higher rental costs.