Surrey Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Surrey

Renting a car in Surrey offers the freedom to explore the county at your own pace, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and have flexible travel plans, allowing you to visit attractions like Thorpe Park, which is perfect for family fun, or the prestigious Wentworth Golf Club for a day on the greens. For those interested in motorsports, Mercedes-Benz World provides an exciting adventure.

Having a car also makes it convenient to explore charming cities such as Guildford, where you can see G Live and Guildford Cathedral, or Staines, known for Runnymede and Windsor Castle. Egham is another must-visit destination, featuring Savill Garden and LEGOLAND® Windsor. The ability to travel to these various locations without relying on public transport adds to the enjoyment of your trip, especially for families or groups seeking adventure and scenic experiences. With well-connected roads and picturesque views, hiring a car in Surrey is an ideal way to fully appreciate what this beautiful county has to offer.

Most popular car hires in Surrey

• Compact: This car type is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 medium suitcases. Its size makes it ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families who prefer a vehicle that is easy to manoeuvre and park. The compact nature also helps keep fuel costs low, making it a practical choice for exploring Surrey’s attractions at your own pace.
• Economy: Accommodating 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases, the economy car is a great option for solo adventurers, couples, and families alike. It offers a budget-friendly solution without compromising on comfort. The economy car strikes a balance between space and efficiency, making it suitable for those looking to navigate Surrey conveniently while managing luggage with ease.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, this car type comfortably accommodates 5 travellers with room for up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV offers the perfect blend of space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for longer journeys around Surrey. Its generous luggage capacity ensures that you can travel with all your essentials, and its spacious interiors provide added comfort for all passengers.

Where to stay in Surrey

• Guildford: Located in Surrey, Guildford is an ideal choice for families and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the national park and nearby attractions such as the modern college university and G Live, an arts centre perfect for culture enthusiasts. The High Street offers a vibrant atmosphere with various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Staines: Staines is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly and outdoor experiences. It features landmarks like Windsor Castle, which is steeped in history and perfect for culture lovers. The nearby theme park and sports facility stadium provide entertainment options, while local dining includes options from alcohol distilleries and restaurants. Staines is particularly appealing for visitors during the warmer months when outdoor attractions flourish.
• Horley: Horley offers a blend of culture and outdoor activities, making it a great base for families. Notable attractions include the Gatwick Aviation Museum and Hever Castle and Gardens, both rich in history. The city features urban parks and shopping areas, enhancing the leisure experience. With nearby wineries and restaurants, Horley is a delightful spot for relaxation after a day spent at Chessington World of Adventures, an amusement park ideal for family fun.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Surrey

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine 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 budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance is likely to result in lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive 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 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at 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 help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent any additional 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 in Surrey

The best time to rent a car in Surrey is November, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. This period can provide excellent value for those looking to hire a vehicle. October also sees slightly low demand and moderate pricing, making it another good option. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand, while August remains particularly busy and costly due to the summer rush of tourists.