Compare Southampton Car Hire prices

Whether you're headed to Southampton to cheer on the Saints at a football match, or take in a show at one of the magnificent theatres, hiring a car in Southampton will make your trip to Southern England a much easier experience.

In fact, you can organise this useful service from the comfort of your own home and you don't need to pull out a credit card until you arrive.

DriveNow's straightforward service allows you to compare Southampton rental car rates from some of the UK's top providers including Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar and SIXT.

There are no surprise booking fees or administration costs to contend with, either. All you need to do is provide an email address so you can be sent a booking confirmation which will include a booking reference number from the rental company you have chosen.

When you get to Southampton, simply give the staff this reference number and they will organise everything else - including payment - with you.

While you're in this exciting and vibrant city, there are plenty of fun activities to keep you occupied. Jump in your rental car and head out to some of the unique galleries and museums such as the SeaCity Museum in the town centre that charts the history of Southampton and the sea including the Titanic . Renting a car in Southampton also allows you to peruse historical sites, such as Tudor House and the Old Town or head out of town to visit the New Forest just 30 mins away.

This city is also the greenest in Southern England so make sure you allow some time to wander through the Southampton common, a 300 acre space much-loved by residents and visitors alike.

You could also take your rental car in Southampton into the city centre where you can take a stroll down QE2 mile or set out on the famous Titanic Walk.

Hiring a rental car in Southampton opens up many doors for you to discover plenty of new activities in the area, so make sure you book early to save yourself the hassles of last minute car hire.

Common Questions

How old must I be to rent a car in Southampton?

It can be more difficult to organise a car hire in the UK if you are under 25, but some rental car providers will supply this service to drivers between the ages of 21 - 25.

However, a youth surcharge fee may be required depending on the supplier, so those in this age group are best to check their price breakdown before they arrive in Southampton.

Do I need an international drivers permit (IDP)?

If your licence is in English, and is a full licence, you do not need an IDP when you rent in the UK. However, if it is in another language you will require an IDP. You should carry both your licence and the permit when you drive.

What road rules should you be aware of?

Cars on UK roads drive on the left. Distance and speed are measured in miles. However, petrol is measured in litres.

If you are on a motorway, the speed limit will be 70mph. For major highways, the limit is 60mph and in urban areas you don't want to exceed 30mph unless otherwise signposted. Speed limits across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are uniform and enforced with speed cameras.

Seatbelts are required, and if you have children under 12 years old or less than 135 cm high, they must be fitted into a child booster seat. This can be included in your rental car booking.

What additional extras can I hire alongside my rental car?

You can also hire a car seat, satellite navigation system and additional insurance or a Collision Damage Waiver when you pick up your vehicle.

A Collision Damage Waiver reduces the amount you need to pay if you are involved in an accident. This charge averages around £10.00 per day and varies between suppliers.