Car Hire at University of Southampton, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire around University of Southampton

Renting a car around the University of Southampton offers remarkable freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. This is particularly beneficial for families and groups, allowing everyone to travel together comfortably. You can visit nearby attractions such as the New Forest National Park, located 18 km away, perfect for outdoor adventures, or the Paultons Family Theme Park, just 11 km from the university, which offers family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the Beaulieu National Motor Museum is 13 km away and provides a cultural outing for all ages. Having a rental car also makes it convenient to explore the vibrant city of Southampton, where the university is situated, as well as the surrounding neighbourhoods of Bassett Green and Portswood. These areas feature attractions like the Ocean Village Marina and Mayflower Park, ensuring a well-rounded experience during your visit. By opting for a car hire, you can effortlessly navigate to these popular destinations and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Most popular car hires near University of Southampton

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride while providing the flexibility needed to explore the attractions around the University of Southampton at your own pace, ensuring you have enough room for both passengers and luggage.
• Compact SUV: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Compact SUV also accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is a great choice for those who want a balance of space and agility, enabling easy navigation through the city while still offering sufficient room for luggage and personal items, making it a popular pick for trips around the University of Southampton.
• Economy: The Economy car option is suitable for 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. This option provides a cost-effective way to hire a vehicle, allowing you to manage your luggage comfortably while exploring the area near the University of Southampton. It’s a practical choice for those who prioritise budget and efficiency during their travels.

Top rated car suppliers near University of Southampton

• Alamo Rent A Car: Positioned 3 km away from the University of Southampton, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travellers. Known for its excellent service, it's ideal for those seeking flexibility in their travel plans. The most booked vehicles include the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, catering to both comfort and space for luggage. With Alamo, you can explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace, making it a fantastic option for your trip.

Where to stay near University of Southampton

• Southampton: Staying in Southampton places you at the heart of vibrant city life, with excellent access to outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. You can explore the Ocean Village Marina for water-based activities and enjoy a stroll through Mayflower Park, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Southampton's array of shopping options and nearby food and drinks venues, including distilleries and wineries, enhance your stay.
• Eastleigh: Just 4 km from the University of Southampton, Eastleigh is an excellent choice for family-friendly activities and outdoor exploration. You can visit Valley Park for a relaxing day, or head to the Paultons Family Theme Park, home to Peppa Pig World, for some thrilling fun. With shopping areas and educational venues, Eastleigh offers a balanced mix of leisure and convenience.
• Winchester: Located 15 km from the University of Southampton, Winchester is known for its rich history and scenic beauty. The iconic Winchester Cathedral is a must-see for culture enthusiasts, while the nearby Paultons Family Theme Park provides entertainment for families. Explore the charming market and historic buildings that define this picturesque city, making it a delightful complement to your Southampton adventure.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type 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 keep costs down, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more economical to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy urban areas. Mid-size cars offer a balanced 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before proceeding with your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid incurring extra charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable, but ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airport locations often incurs a surcharge, though the convenience may justify the additional cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards as a method of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your travels. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when making your booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car around University of Southampton

The best time to rent a car around the University of Southampton is January and February, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. These months offer great value for those looking to hire a vehicle. Mid-range value can be found in March and April, which see average prices and demand. In contrast, November tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high prices and low demand, making it less ideal for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
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	Moderately High
August	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
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	Moderately Low
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately High
December	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average