Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at King Shaka Intl. Airport, La Mercy

Reasons to book a car hire at Durban International Airport

Renting a car at Durban airport is a popular choice for tourists looking to explore the vibrant attractions surrounding the area. With the convenience of a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace. This flexibility is ideal for those wanting to experience the rich culture and relaxing atmosphere that Durban has to offer.

Within a short drive from Durban airport, you can visit stunning sites such as uMhlanga Rocks Beach, located 14 km away, or the historic Umhlanga Lighthouse, just 13 km away. For nature enthusiasts, the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve is a mere 11 km from the airport, presenting an opportunity for a peaceful retreat. Furthermore, the nearby cities of uMhlanga and Ballito, located 14 km and 13 km away respectively, provide additional beaches and leisure activities, ensuring a fulfilling visit.

By opting for a car hire, you can effortlessly explore the scenic coastline and charming local attractions, making your holiday not only enjoyable but also memorable.

Most popular car hires near Durban Airport

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those renting at Durban airport, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for a vehicle that balances space and manoeuvrability. It provides the freedom to navigate the city and surrounding areas comfortably while managing luggage with ease.
• Economy: The Economy car is another frequently booked option for visitors at Durban airport. This vehicle can also accommodate 5 travellers, but it is designed to hold up to 2 medium suitcases. It is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families who are looking for a cost-effective solution whilst still enjoying the flexibility to explore the region at their own pace.
• Midsize: For those requiring a bit more space, the Midsize car is an excellent choice, accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly well-suited for couples or families who may have more luggage or simply prefer additional comfort during their journeys. Renting a Midsize vehicle from Durban airport provides ample room for passengers and their belongings, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers near Durban International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers at Durban airport, with a rental location conveniently situated less than 1 km away. Known for its fast check-in process and well-maintained vehicles, Alamo ensures a smooth rental experience. The most booked options include Economy SUVs and Midsize cars, catering to a variety of preferences for comfort and space. Alamo's commitment to customer satisfaction makes it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area.
• Budget: Budget is another top supplier near Durban airport, also located less than 1 km away, offering convenience for renters. Renowned for its competitive pricing, Budget provides a selection of vehicles that includes Compact and Economy cars, ideal for economical travel. With efficient service and a straightforward rental process, Budget is a great option for travellers seeking flexibility and affordability during their South African adventure.

Where to stay near Durban International Airport

• uMhlanga: Located 14 km from Durban Airport, uMhlanga offers a delightful beach and family-themed experience. Travellers can enjoy attractions such as the popular Umhlanga Rocks Beach and Durban Beach, both ideal for a beach holiday. The area also features a shopping centre and a water park, making it perfect for family outings. With plenty of cafes nearby, visitors will find ample dining options to unwind after a day at the beach.
• Ballito: Situated 13 km from Durban Airport, Ballito is known for its vibrant beach and entertainment scene. Highlights include Ballito Beach and Thompson's Bay Beach, both suitable for relaxing days by the sea. The area boasts a good selection of shopping centres and theatres, catering to both shopping enthusiasts and culture seekers. Families will appreciate the local waterpark, providing additional fun for children during their stay.
• La Mercy: La Mercy is positioned directly at Durban Airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers. This city is perfect for families and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Umhlanga Rocks Beach and Umdloti Beach, both excellent for beach holidays. The presence of parks and shopping centres offers additional leisure opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all types of visitors.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car hire near Durban

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to secure your DUR car hire as early as possible to enjoy lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may be subject to higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—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 reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is generally the most favourable. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just be sure to 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. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is required to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car from Durban Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Durban Airport is May, when prices are lower and demand is moderate. Just before that, April also offers slightly high prices but still manageable demand. June can be appealing as well, with average prices and lower demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by slightly lower demand. Following that, August sees average prices but moderately high demand, making it a busier time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
March	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
July	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low