Car Hire at University of Reading, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire around University of Reading

Renting a car around the University of Reading offers you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for any tourist. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, you can visit nearby attractions without the hassle of public transport. Located just 3 km away, you can discover Shinfield Studios, a film studio perfect for family experiences, or immerse yourself in the culture at Reading Museum and Town Hall, also just 3 km from the university. If you're inclined towards family-friendly fun, LEGOLAND® Windsor is only 21 km away, providing an excellent day out. Additionally, the surrounding areas, such as Reading City Centre and Earley, are easily accessible. Whether you want to enjoy the scenic Thames Valley Park in Earley or the historic Reading Abbey Ruins in the city centre, having a rental car ensures you can visit these destinations comfortably. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families or groups seeking to maximise their sightseeing experiences while enjoying the friendly atmosphere of the region.

Most popular car hires near University of Reading

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those visiting the University of Reading, accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a vehicle that is easy to park and manoeuvre in urban areas while providing ample space for luggage.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV can comfortably accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate the extra room and versatility for longer journeys, making it a great option for a car hire trip around the University of Reading.
• Economy: The Economy car is another excellent option for visitors to the University of Reading. It accommodates 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an economical choice without sacrificing comfort. This option is perfect for navigating the local area while keeping costs down.

Top rated car suppliers near University of Reading

• Hertz: With a rental location situated less than 1 km away from the University of Reading, Hertz is a convenient choice for travellers. Known for its excellent selection, the most booked vehicles include Compact and Midsize SUVs, perfect for those looking to explore the area comfortably. Renting from Hertz allows you to enjoy the flexibility of managing your itinerary while discovering attractions around the university at your own pace.

Where to stay near University of Reading

• Reading: Staying in Reading offers easy access to the University of Reading and a rich variety of cultural experiences. The city is home to attractions like the Reading Museum and Town Hall, perfect for those interested in history. For family-friendly activities, visit the nearby Shinfield Studios. Reading also boasts a good selection of food and drink options, including local wineries and restaurants, making it an ideal base for your trip.
• Henley-on-Thames: Located 11 km from the University of Reading, Henley-on-Thames is renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. This charming city features attractions like the historic Henley Bridge and Cliveden House, appealing to culture enthusiasts. With its lush surroundings, Henley is particularly enjoyable in warmer months when you can explore the national parks and partake in local winery tours.
• Maidenhead: Situated 18 km from the University of Reading, Maidenhead is an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor and cultural experiences. The area is in proximity to historic sites such as Windsor Castle and Cliveden House, offering rich history and beautiful architecture. Maidenhead also features various restaurants and wineries, ensuring that visitors have plenty of dining options after a day of exploring.

10 tips to save on your car hire around University of Reading

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller vehicles are more affordable to rent and simpler to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. 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 not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to include car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car around University of Reading

The best time to rent a car around the University of Reading is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February also offers similar benefits, making it another good option for value. The months of March through May see average prices and higher demand, while June through August can become slightly high in price, particularly in July, which is typically the most expensive month. During this peak period, demand is also high, making it a busy time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.7°F (4.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	40.8°F (4.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	43.9°F (6.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
April	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	59.5°F (15.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
September	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
November	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average