Car Rental East London

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Top Car Deals in East London

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
East London, Eastern Cape, ZAF
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
East London, Eastern Cape, ZAF
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
East London, Eastern Cape, ZAF
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
East London, Eastern Cape, ZAF
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your East London car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around East London

Renting a car in East London offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your needs. This is especially beneficial for those looking to soak up beach experiences at Nahoon Beach, delve into local culture at the East London Museum, or enjoy the scenic views and adventure opportunities at Cove Rock—all conveniently located within the area. Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations such as Gonubie, where you can visit Bonza Bay Beach and Kwelera Nature Reserve, or explore Arcadia and Beacon Bay, both featuring popular beaches and attractions. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or seeking outdoor adventures, having a rental car makes it simple to access all that East London has to offer without relying on public transportation. Enjoy your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful region by choosing the convenience of a rental car.

Most popular car rentals in East London

  • Mini: This compact option accommodates up to 4 travelers with space for 2 small suitcases. The Mini is ideal for solo travelers or couples seeking an economical and easy-to-maneuver vehicle. Its size makes it perfect for navigating the streets of East London, allowing for a comfortable and flexible travel experience as you explore the local attractions at your own pace.
  • Fullsize SUV: Perfect for families or groups, the Fullsize SUV accommodates up to 6 travelers and offers room for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This vehicle type provides ample space and comfort for passengers and their luggage, making it an excellent choice for those planning to travel with family or friends. The Fullsize SUV allows for a more adventurous trip while ensuring everyone travels together comfortably.
  • Compact: Accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 3 medium suitcases, the Compact car is a versatile option suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families. Its balanced size offers easy handling and parking in urban areas while still providing enough space for luggage. The Compact car allows for a seamless travel experience as you enjoy the freedom of exploring East London and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in East London

  • Avis: Avis is a reliable choice for travelers seeking quality car rentals in East London, with 1 convenient rental location in the area. Known for their customer service, Avis offers a diverse fleet, with the most popular vehicles being Economy and Compact SUVs. This flexibility allows you to explore East London and its attractions at your own pace, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.
  • Budget: Budget stands out with 2 rental locations throughout East London, providing easy access for tourists. Their focus on value means you can find affordable options to meet your needs, with Economy and Compact vehicles being the top choices among customers. This makes Budget an excellent option for those looking to manage their travel budget while enjoying the freedom of driving.
  • Europcar: Europcar is another reputable supplier featuring a rental location in East London. They are known for their well-maintained fleet and excellent customer service. With Economy and Compact vehicles being popular picks, you can enjoy a smooth driving experience as you navigate the city and its surroundings. Europcar's commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a solid choice for your car rental needs.

Where to stay in East London

  • Beacon Bay: Beacon Bay is a charming village in East London known for its eco-friendly and outdoor experiences. Travelers can enjoy nearby attractions like Nahoon Beach, Eastern Beach, and Bonza Bay Beach, all suitable for beach vacations. The area also offers a recreational area for relaxation and shopping options. With its proximity to nature reserves and family-friendly beaches, Beacon Bay is an excellent choice for a beach getaway.
  • Quigney Beach: Quigney Beach is a vibrant neighborhood located around East London, ideal for beach enthusiasts. Visitors can explore Nahoon Beach, Eastern Beach, and the East London Museum, which provides cultural insights. Quigney Beach's family beaches and historical landmarks offer a mix of leisure and learning opportunities, making it a great spot for those looking to immerse themselves in both relaxation and culture.
  • Gonubie: Gonubie is a delightful village in East London that caters to adventure seekers and outdoor lovers. Guests can visit Bonza Bay Beach and Gonubie Beach, both perfect for family outings. The Kwelera Nature Reserve nearby provides opportunities for exploration and appreciation of nature. With its stunning cliffs and recreational areas, Gonubie is a fantastic choice for those seeking an active and adventurous beach experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around East London

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to 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. Booking early typically allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are usually less expensive to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, 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 before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges, which is typically the best option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 and around East London

The best value period to rent a car in and around East London is November, when prices tend to be lower and demand is at its quietest. October also offers average prices with steady demand, making it a reasonable choice. In contrast, September is typically the most expensive month, with high demand as people travel more. The summer months, particularly June through August, can also see slightly higher prices and average demand, further highlighting September's peak.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January72.5°F (22.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
February73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
April68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly High
May65.8°F (18.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyLowAverage
June62.8°F (17.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July61.9°F (16.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August62.4°F (16.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December69.6°F (20.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage

Finding the cheapest car rentals in East London

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter East London into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in East London and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in East London

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in East London. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in East London

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

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SUV, Full Size, Economy
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in East London?
Within the past seven days in East London, you could have driven away in a rental car for as little as a day.
Can I rent a car from East London Airport (ELS)?
East London Airport (ELS) has plenty of options just a quick commute away. Find a ride that suits you from Dollar, Europcar, Hertz, Budget or Thrifty Car Rental.
What happens if I need to cancel my East London car reservation?
You should get a complete refund on your booking if you let us know a minimum of six hours ahead of the scheduled collection time. Look through your rental agreement for all the info. Our Customer Service Portal may have the answers too.
Where can I go on a road trip from East London?
Once you've ticked off the terrific places in East London, there's loads more to see in the surrounding area. Grab the keys to a rental car, throw your luggage in the trunk and get out there. These are some drives we know you'll love:
  • Make tracks to Makhanda for a fantastic sightseeing adventure. About 80 miles from East London, it has tons of cool sights like African Pride Pumba Private Game Reserve.
  • Why not enjoy everything on offer in Komani too? Major attractions here include Queenstown Mall. Komani is approximately 95 miles from East London.
  • Get into nature and appreciate the serenity at Addo Elephant National Park. You'll find it around 150 miles from East London.
How do I find the best car rental deals in East London with Expedia?
Whatever kind of wheels you're looking for, Expedia will help you nab the best deal. Simply compare offers from reliable rental providers and select the option that works for you. Want to drive away with even more in your wallet? Bundle your East London car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in East London?
If you're 18 and over, you can rent a vehicle in East London. Keep in mind that most rental companies will charge young drivers an additional fee, which is meant to cover the higher damage risk involved. Also, young motorists usually aren't permitted to rent luxury cars or larger vehicles. Check the fine print before you book to avoid any surprises at the rental counter.
What do you need to rent a car in East London?
Generally, all you'll need is a current driver's license and credit card in your name when collecting the keys to your vehicle. You may also need your own proof of coverage if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance policy. Rules often differ between providers, so be sure to check before you book.
What side of the road do you drive on in East London?
If you're renting a vehicle in East London or road-tripping around South Africa, remember that you'll be driving on the left. Also, the driver's seat and some controls will be on the opposite side of what you're accustomed to in the U.S. This may take a while to get the hang of, so drive with extra care.
What is the cheapest car rental in East London?
The two cheapest daily prices recorded in East London within the past seven days were and . Now that's what we'd call an awesome deal! These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in East London?
Yes, so you won't need to rebook a rental vehicle in the middle of your vacation. Check out our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip details and reserve a set of wheels to call your own for the duration of your getaway.
Where can I find an East London car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between rental suppliers, so you'll have to do a little shopping around. Found an East London supplier that does rent to drivers under the age of 25? Terrific news! Just take note that an extra charge often applies to drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. The terms and conditions of each rental car you're interested in should have all the information you need.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in East London?
After meticulously planning your escape, don't scrimp on your insurance — choose collision protection while reserving your East London rental vehicle with Expedia. There are tons of advantages to this plan, including up to $35,000 in primary coverage for theft, accident damage and vandalism. Plus, with no deductible and round-the-clock emergency assistance, you can breathe a little easier should you find yourself in a pickle.
Can I drive in East London with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in South Africa, then you'll likely need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country to be able to rent a car. Please also consider that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll have to show your current driver's license your passport and other forms of ID as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your license and passport. Some added requirements to rent a car internationally are:
  • Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or over in most places to rent a car. If you're younger, it may still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the fine print before sliding behind the wheel. You typically can't cross country borders, drive onto ferries or off road with your rental car.

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