Car Rental at Gatwick Airport (LGW) from $56

Reasons to book a car rental at London Airport

Renting a car at London airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the area at their own pace. With the freedom to manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans, a rental car caters to road trip adventurers, adventure travelers, and countryside explorers alike. You can quickly visit exciting attractions such as the historic Hampton Court Palace, located 19 miles away, or have a fun day at Chessington World of Adventures, just 15 miles from the airport. For those interested in romance and culture, Hever Castle and Gardens is a mere 12 miles away.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to explore nearby cities like Crawley, only 3 miles away, where you can visit Tulley's Farm and Brighton Beach, or Croydon, located 15 miles from the airport, featuring iconic sights like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. If you prefer a closer destination, Horley is just 1 mile away and offers access to attractions such as Chessington World of Adventures and Hampton Court Palace. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, renting a car provides the flexibility and ease needed for an enjoyable trip around London airport.

Most popular car rentals near London Airport

• Economy: The economy car option is a popular choice for those traveling solo, as well as couples and families. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can fit up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for short trips around London airport. Renting an economy car allows for easy luggage management, and its compact size is perfect for navigating busy city streets.
• Compact SUV: A compact SUV is an excellent option for families or small groups of up to 5 travelers. With the capacity to hold up to 3 medium suitcases, this vehicle provides a bit more space without sacrificing maneuverability. This choice is especially suitable for those looking to explore the surrounding countryside while enjoying the comfort of an SUV.
• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV offers increased capacity for families or couples who need more room. It fits up to 5 travelers and can accommodate up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is great for those planning to travel with extra luggage or for longer road trips, providing a comfortable ride as you explore attractions around London airport.

Top rated car suppliers near London Airport

• Budget: Located a convenient 0.2 miles from London airport, Budget is a popular choice among travelers, boasting an overall rating of 7 out of 10. Known for its friendly service and short wait times, Budget is ideal for those looking to hit the road quickly. The most booked vehicles with this supplier are the Compact SUV and Economy, making it an excellent option for various travel needs.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Also situated 0.2 miles from London airport, Alamo Rent A Car is favored for its reliable service and offers a selection of vehicles perfect for your journey. The most popular choices among customers include the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV, ensuring you can find the right fit for your travel group. Alamo is well-regarded for its straightforward rental process and customer satisfaction.
• Enterprise: Just a short 0.2 miles from London airport, Enterprise provides a dependable car rental experience. Known for its exceptional customer service, this supplier has a strong following among travelers. The Midsize SUV and Compact SUV are the most booked options, catering to those who desire comfort and efficiency on the road. Enterprise’s commitment to quality makes it a top choice for your car rental needs.

Where to go near London Airport

• Crawley: Located 3 miles away from London, Crawley is a great option for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area features popular attractions such as Tulley's Farm, Brighton Beach, and Chessington World of Adventures, making it ideal for adventure seekers. Travelers can enjoy recreational activities at the aquatic centre and golf facilities, alongside the urban parks and sports stadium. Visitor numbers peak in April, July, and September, providing vibrant experiences during these months.
• Croydon: Situated 15 miles from London, Croydon offers a mix of cultural and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge, all suitable for culture enthusiasts. The area is known for its shopping areas and theater venues, providing various entertainment options. Urban parks and sports facilities add to the appeal for families. Peak visitor numbers occur in April, July, and September, making these months popular for travelers.
• Horley: Only 1 mile from London, Horley is perfect for those looking for outdoor and cultural experiences. The city is home to attractions like Chessington World of Adventures, Hampton Court Palace, and Hever Castle and Gardens, which cater to families and culture seekers alike. Visitors can explore shopping areas and recreational spaces, ensuring plenty of activities. Like other nearby cities, visitor numbers peak in April, July, and September, creating a lively atmosphere during these times.

9 tips to save on your London Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you need a spacious SUV, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's generally advisable to reserve your LGW car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is ideal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and the availability of certain vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might be limited. This could also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are usually more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on 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 favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable—just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you'll be spending a lot of time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from London Airport

The best time to rent a car from London Airport is February, which offers slightly low prices and low demand. January is also a quiet month with similar benefits, making it an ideal time for value seekers. March to May sees average prices and demand, which can also be a good option. However, July stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices, making it a busy time for rentals. June through August typically follow suit with increased costs and demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	44.4°F (6.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	48.6°F (9.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High