Car Rentals in St Austell, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around St Austell

Renting a car in St Austell is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a vehicle at your disposal, you can visit key attractions like the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a beautiful botanical garden perfect for family outings and romantic walks, or Charlestown Harbour, known for its stunning scenery and beach experiences. Porthpean Beach is also easily accessible for a relaxing day by the sea. Additionally, having a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations such as Fowey, just 10 km away, where you can explore the Fowey Estuary and the Eden Project, or Par, only 5 km away, which features Polkerris Beach. Mevagissey, found in the St Austell area, is another charming location with its own lovely beach and attractions. The convenience of a rental car means you can manage luggage easily and create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests, whether that be outdoor adventures or family-friendly activities. Overall, a car hire enhances your experience in and around St Austell, making it easier to discover all that this picturesque region has to offer.

Most popular car hires in St Austell

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for those exploring St Austell, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families, offering the versatility needed for a range of travel plans while ensuring comfort on the road.
• Economy: The Economy car is another highly booked option in St Austell, also seating 5 travellers and providing room for 2 medium suitcases. Ideal for solo travellers or couples, this option allows for economical travel without compromising on comfort, making it a sensible choice for those wishing to explore the area without the fuss.
• Midsize: If you need extra luggage space, the Midsize car is a fantastic option, accommodating 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for couples and families who require a bit more room for their belongings, ensuring a comfortable journey while exploring the beautiful surroundings of St Austell.

Top rated car suppliers in St Austell

• Enterprise: Enterprise is the most popular car hire supplier in St Austell, with a dedicated rental location in the area. Travellers appreciate the flexibility it offers, making it easy to explore local attractions at your own pace. The most booked vehicles are the Economy and Mini options, ideal for navigating the region comfortably. Customers often highlight the helpful staff and smooth rental process, making it a top choice for both leisure and business travellers.

Where to stay around St Austell

• Fowey: Located 10 km from St Austell, Fowey offers a captivating experience with its scenic beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. Visitors can explore the Fowey Estuary, a nature preserve, or take a trip to the renowned Eden Project, ideal for family outings. Enjoy the picturesque Polperro Harbour, perfect for a beach day. With numerous restaurants and breweries nearby, Fowey is well-equipped for a delightful stay.
• Bodmin: Situated 15 km from St Austell, Bodmin is rich in historic charm and outdoor activities. Key attractions include the historic Bodmin Jail and Lanhydrock, a magnificent historic house. The area is also home to the Eden Project, making it a great spot for families and romantics alike. With local wineries and cheese options, Bodmin provides a unique culinary experience amidst its scenic landscapes.
• Par: Just 5 km from St Austell, Par is a family-friendly destination known for its beautiful beaches and greenery. Visit Polkerris Beach for a relaxing day by the sea or explore the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, both offering stunning botanical experiences. Par boasts a selection of breweries and bars, making it a charming place to unwind after a day of exploration.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around St Austell

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your booking well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and benefit from improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, 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—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this might be worthwhile for the added convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies solely accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on embarking on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is mandatory to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around St Austell

The best time to rent a car in and around St Austell is September, when prices are typically at their lowest and demand is average. October and November can also offer good value, with prices remaining moderate and demand generally steady. In contrast, August tends to be the most expensive month, as demand is high despite slightly lower prices than July. June through August see heightened demand, making these months busier for car hires.