Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Southampton Airport, Southampton

Reasons to book a car hire at Southampton Airport

Renting a car at Southampton Airport (SOU) is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the surrounding area with ease. With a rental vehicle, you gain the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace, making it convenient to manage your luggage and travel plans. Families will particularly appreciate the flexibility a rental car offers, allowing for spontaneous excursions to family-friendly destinations. For instance, Paultons Family Theme Park, home of Peppa Pig World, is located just 13 km away, making it an ideal spot for a day of fun. Culture enthusiasts can take a short drive to the historic Winchester Cathedral, also 13 km from the airport, or visit the Beaulieu National Motor Museum, situated 16 km away. Additionally, the nearby cities of Southampton and Eastleigh offer a variety of activities and sights, including Ocean Village Marina and Valley Park. With a rental car, you can easily navigate these destinations and enjoy the vibrant experiences they offer, all while having the comfort and convenience of your own transport.

Most popular car hires near Southampton Airport

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for those visiting Southampton airport, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, providing a compact and efficient way to explore the surrounding attractions. With its affordability and practicality, renting an Economy car allows you to manage your luggage easily while enjoying the freedom to travel at your own pace.
• Compact: The Compact car option is another highly booked choice at Southampton airport, offering room for up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This car is well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for a balance of comfort and efficiency. The Compact car provides a slightly larger space compared to the Economy, making it a versatile choice for those needing a bit more room for their gear while still being economical on fuel.
• Midsize SUV: For those requiring extra space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option, accommodating up to 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who may have more luggage or equipment to transport. The Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride, with ample storage for all your needs, making it a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility and comfort during their stay.

Top rated car suppliers near Southampton Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo provides a convenient rental location less than 1 km away from Southampton airport, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking flexibility in their plans. Known for its focus on customer satisfaction, Alamo's most popular vehicles include the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, offering ample space and comfort for your journey. This supplier is a great option for those looking to explore the area around Southampton at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget offers a rental location situated less than 1 km from Southampton airport, making it a practical choice for those arriving by air. With a reputation for affordability, Budget’s most frequently booked vehicles are the Compact SUV and Economy cars, catering to both budget-conscious travellers and those seeking a reliable vehicle for their adventures. Enjoy the freedom to manage your itinerary as you explore the sights around Southampton.
• Avis: Avis features a rental location within close proximity—less than 1 km from Southampton airport. Renowned for its extensive range of vehicles, Avis's most popular options include the Compact SUV and Economy cars, making it a suitable choice for various travel needs. With a focus on providing quality service, Avis ensures that you have a smooth rental experience, allowing you to make the most of your time in the region.

Where to stay near Southampton Airport

• Eastleigh: Located a mere 2 km from Southampton Airport, Eastleigh offers a charming blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of Valley Park, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. For thrill-seekers, the Paultons Family Theme Park, home of Peppa Pig World, is an excellent choice for entertainment. With various shopping options and eateries nearby, Eastleigh provides a convenient and engaging base for your stay.
• Southampton: As the city where the airport is located, Southampton boasts various attractions and amenities. Experience the scenic beauty at Ocean Village Marina, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Mayflower Park offers a delightful urban setting for families and city explorers alike. The city's vibrant shopping areas and theatres ensure that you have plenty of options for entertainment and dining during your stay.
• Winchester: Situated 13 km from Southampton Airport, Winchester is a historic city that attracts those interested in culture and adventure. The stunning Winchester Cathedral is a must-visit for its architectural beauty. Families can enjoy a visit to Paultons Family Theme Park, while the surrounding national parks offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Winchester's charming public market and dining options make it a pleasant place to stay.

9 tips to save on your Airport car hire near Southampton

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the perfect match 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. Ideally, aim to finalise your booking 1-3 months in advance, particularly before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your booking.
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 provide a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable too; just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
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 unforeseen costs and provides you with peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is mandatory to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Southampton Airport

The best time to rent a car from Southampton Airport is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low as well. January and March also offer good value, with similar pricing and average demand. Moving into the spring, April sees average prices and demand, while May tends to be busier with higher rental prices. As the year progresses, September becomes the busiest month with average prices, and December is typically the most expensive month, with slightly high pricing and low demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High