Car Rental at East Midlands Airport (EMA) from $52

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Top Car Deals in East Midlands

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What you need to know for your East Midlands car rental

Reasons to book a car rental at East Midlands Airport

Renting a car at East Midlands Airport (EMA) is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the surrounding area with ease. The flexibility of having your own vehicle allows you to visit attractions at your own pace, whether you are traveling for leisure or business. With convenient luggage management, you can effortlessly transition from the airport to your adventure.

Within a short distance, you can experience exciting destinations such as Donington Park Racing Circuit, located just 2 miles away, perfect for sports and adventure enthusiasts. Culture seekers can visit Melbourne Hall, only 4 miles away, or delve into history at Wollaton Hall, situated 10 miles from the airport. If you wish to venture further, the vibrant cities of Nottingham and Derby are only 12 miles away, offering numerous attractions including Nottingham Castle and the beautiful Elvaston Castle. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to these key locations, making it an ideal option for families and budget-conscious travelers alike. Overall, a rental car from East Midlands Airport provides the freedom to explore all that this region has to offer.

Most popular car rentals near East Midlands Airport

  • Economy: The Economy car type is a popular choice for travelers at East Midlands airport, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families seeking an efficient and budget-friendly vehicle to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.
  • Midsize: The Midsize cars are ideal for couples or families, comfortably seating up to 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a bit more space and comfort, making it a great choice for those who prefer a larger vehicle while still enjoying the flexibility of exploring the attractions near East Midlands airport.
  • Compact: Compact cars are another popular rental option at East Midlands airport, accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for 3 medium suitcases. This type is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or small families who desire a smaller vehicle that is easy to maneuver while still offering enough space for luggage. Compact cars are a practical choice for those looking to travel comfortably without sacrificing agility.

Top rated car suppliers near East Midlands Airport

  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travelers, offering a rental location less than 1 mile from East Midlands airport. Known for its fast check-in process and clean vehicles, Alamo provides a hassle-free experience. The most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, catering to varying travel needs with flexibility and comfort.
  • Enterprise: With a location conveniently situated less than 1 mile from East Midlands airport, Enterprise is recognized for its excellent customer service and wide range of vehicle options. Popular choices include Fullsize SUVs and Midsize SUVs, making it an ideal choice for families and larger groups looking for space and convenience on their travels.
  • Budget: Budget stands out for offering competitive pricing and a reliable selection of vehicles, located less than 1 mile from East Midlands airport as well. Travelers frequently opt for Standard SUVs and Midsize vehicles, ensuring a comfortable ride for their adventures around the area. Budget's commitment to value and ease of access makes it a favored option for many visitors.

Where to stay near East Midlands Airport

  • Nottingham: Located 12 miles from East Midlands Airport, Nottingham is a vibrant city perfect for outdoor and family adventures. Explore notable attractions such as Wollaton Hall, a natural history museum ideal for family and cultural experiences, and Nottingham Castle, a romantic historical site. Don’t miss Old Market Square, a lively piazza that showcases the city’s culture. With various local food options, including sweet treats and distilleries, Nottingham offers a delightful stay for travelers seeking adventure.
  • Derby: Situated in Derby, East Midlands Airport is surrounded by opportunities for outdoor and adventure-seeking visitors. Derby features attractions like Donington Park Racing Circuit, ideal for sports enthusiasts, and Kedleston Hall, a historic house perfect for culture lovers. Elvaston Castle, known for its beautiful gardens, provides a serene escape. With charming bars and sweet treat options nearby, Derby is an excellent choice for a stay filled with scenic explorations.
  • Great Britain: Just 12 miles from East Midlands Airport, Great Britain offers stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities. Visitors can explore Donington Park Racing Circuit for thrilling motorsport action or enjoy the peaceful National Memorial Arboretum, suitable for family outings. Additionally, Drayton Manor Theme Park provides entertainment for families. With various distilleries and wineries nearby, Great Britain is a fantastic location for indulging in local flavors while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near East Midlands

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer driving, or an economy car to carry extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your trip.
  2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure the best rates and a wider selection, it's advisable to book your airport car rental as early as possible. Ideally, make your reservation 1-3 months in advance, particularly before peak travel seasons.
  3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—like SUVs or luxury models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance among cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most beneficial option. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is also acceptable—just be sure to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
  7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend a lot of time driving, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
  9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from East Midlands Airport

The best value period to rent a car from East Midlands Airport is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. March and May also offer reasonable prices with average demand, making them good shoulder months. However, November tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand, while December follows closely with high demand and slightly high prices. This creates a busy time for rentals as the year ends.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January38.7°F (3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
February39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April46.6°F (8.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyLowAverage
May52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
June57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
August60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
September57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly High
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$52
 
Our second best deal of the day
$53
 
Our third best deal of the day
$60
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

Where can I pick up a rental car at East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
Car rental counters at Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA) are located at the Car Rental Park on Ambassador Road. You can pick up your car from major providers including:
  • Enterprise
  • Alamo Rent A Car
  • Greenmotion
  • Budget
  • Wheego
After collecting your bags, follow the signs to the dedicated Car Rental Park. For a faster pickup, consider completing any online check-in processes with your rental company before you arrive.

How much does it cost to rent a car at East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
Car rentals at Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA) start from $14 a day for a mini 2 or 4 door car from Greenmotion or an economy 2-3 door car from Wheego. You can also find a compact crossover from Budget starting from $15 a day, or a compact SUV from Wheego starting from $16 a day. For more space, a midsize SUV starts from $32 a day with Alamo Rent A Car. To find competitive rates, it's recommended to book in advance and compare different vehicle classes.
What are the best car rental types at East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA) car rentals come in a full range of vehicle types. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize commercial van/truck
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize SUV
Solo travelers and couples often find economy or compact cars suitable for city driving and short trips. Families and small groups, especially those with luggage, will appreciate the extra space and comfort of SUVs or minivans. Booking your preferred vehicle type ahead of time is always a good idea, particularly during busy travel periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in East Midlands.

Are there electric or hybrid car rentals at East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA) offers electric and hybrid rental options. Enterprise, Greenmotion, and Budget provide electric vehicles starting from $18 a day. Greenmotion and Wheego also offer hybrid options starting from $29 a day. Picking up an electric or hybrid vehicle allows you to explore the region with potentially lower fuel costs. It's advisable to confirm the charge level at pickup and plan your route with charging stations in mind, especially for longer journeys.
Which car rental companies offer the cheapest rates at East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
You can find cheap car rentals at East Midlands Airport from $14 a day with Wheego's economy 2-3 door cars. Greenmotion provides mini 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day, and Wheego offers economy 2-3 door cars also starting from $14 a day. Budget is another competitive option, with compact crossovers starting from $15 a day. To find a good deal, book a few weeks ahead, skip unnecessary add-ons like GPS and prepaid fuel, and compare airport rates with nearby off-airport branches.
What are the best day trips by car from East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
Several rewarding destinations are within an easy drive of East Midlands Airport. You can explore:
  • Anfield Stadium in Liverpool, approximately 3 miles away, for football fans
  • Peak District National Park, approximately 61 miles away, offering stunning natural landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts
  • Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, approximately 19 miles away, for golf lovers
  • Sefton Park in Liverpool, approximately 4 miles away, a beautiful green space for relaxation
  • Liverpool ONE, approximately 1 mile away, for shopping and entertainment
Closer spots like Liverpool ONE make great half-day outings, while destinations farther out like Peak District National Park are better as full-day trips. Any standard rental handles these routes comfortably, but an SUV offers more space for gear or if you are traveling with a group.

What are the best car rental companies at East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
Car rentals at Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA) are available from trusted providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Budget, offering vehicles suited to various travel needs. Enterprise provides options such as midsize commercial van/trucks and economy 4-5 door cars, which are easy to maneuver and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers mini 2-3 door cars and compact SUVs, providing good value and versatility. Budget rounds out the choices with compact crossovers and economy 4-5 door cars, including electric options. For families or groups needing more space and comfort, a midsize SUV is a great choice, while a compact car is ideal for solo travelers or couples exploring urban areas. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in East Midlands.
Which side of the road do you drive on from East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
At Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA), drivers use the left-hand side of the road. If you are accustomed to driving on the right, give yourself a little time to adjust after picking up your rental. Take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction. Most rental cars at Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA) are set up for local driving, so once you are on the road it quickly feels natural.
What is the best time to book a car at East Midlands Airport (EMA)?
From January, demand at Nottingham East Midlands Airport (EMA) tends to ease, and rentals can start from as little as $14 a day for a mini car. September and June are typically the busiest months, when high demand can push prices up. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead during these periods helps lock in availability. Demand climbs as travelers drive to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Anfield Stadium
  • Peak District National Park
  • Royal Birkdale Golf Club
  • Official Liverpool Football Club Museum and Stadium Tour
  • Liverpool: City & Beatles Tour with FREE 48hr Hop On Hop Off
Major holidays and special events can also push rates higher. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so booking early and rebooking if rates drop is a smart strategy.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in East Midlands?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in East Midlands. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in East Midlands?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in East Midlands?
Budget car rental in East Midlands can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $52. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in East Midlands?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in East Midlands. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your East Midlands car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in East Midlands?
To rent a car in East Midlands, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my East Midlands car rental?
If you need to cancel your East Midlands car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in East Midlands with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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