Caithness Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Caithness

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Thurso

Thurso

What you need to know for your Caithness car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Caithness

Renting a car in Caithness is a practical choice for travelers looking to explore this beautiful district at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you have the freedom to visit key attractions like the historic Dunnet Head Lighthouse and the romantic Castle of Mey without the constraints of public transportation. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures or simply enjoying scenic views, having a car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans.

With your rental car, you can conveniently explore nearby cities such as Thurso, which features both Dunnet Head Lighthouse and Dunnet Bay Beach, and Wick, known for Duncansby Head and the iconic John o' Groats Signpost. The charming John o' Groats also offers attractions like the John O' Groats Signpost and Castle of Mey, making it an excellent stop on your journey. A rental car is especially beneficial for families and groups, providing ample space for luggage and allowing you to make spontaneous stops along the way. Overall, renting a car in Caithness enhances your travel experience by offering convenience and flexibility in discovering the region's rich cultural and natural attractions.

Most popular car rentals in Caithness

  • Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or families. The Economy car is perfect for navigating the scenic roads of Caithness and offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace without worrying about luggage constraints.
  • Compact: Like the Economy option, the Compact car also accommodates 5 travelers but provides space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a suitable choice for those who need a bit more room for their belongings. The Compact car is easy to handle, ideal for both urban driving and country roads, allowing you to enjoy your journey through Caithness comfortably.
  • Midsize SUV: If you are traveling with a family, couple, or small group, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic option. It accommodates 5 travelers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases, ensuring that everyone has enough room for their gear. The Midsize SUV offers more comfort and storage, making it a smart choice for longer trips around Caithness while providing a higher driving position and enhanced visibility on the road.

Where to stay in Caithness

  • Thurso: Located in Caithness, Thurso is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. It's close to popular attractions like Dunnet Head Lighthouse and Castle of Mey, both of which offer a glimpse into local history. Dunnet Bay Beach is also nearby for a relaxing day by the sea. The city features various dining options, including restaurants and local distilleries, making it a convenient base for family vacations and outdoor activities.
  • Wick: Another charming city in Caithness, Wick is perfect for culture enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic getaway. Key points of interest include the historic Duncansby Head Lighthouse and the John O' Groats Signpost. Old Wick Castle offers a fascinating look at the region's history. Wick provides a variety of food and drink options, including distilleries and breweries, enhancing your visit with local flavors.
  • Lybster: Lybster is a scenic spot that appeals to travelers interested in culture and outdoor experiences. The area features significant architecture and beautiful beaches, with attractions like the Wick Heritage Centre and Dunbeath Heritage Centre providing insights into the local history. Lybster is also home to several distilleries, allowing visitors to taste regional specialties while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Caithness

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to help you find the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable 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 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making your reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most favorable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be convenient as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
  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 Caithness

The best value period to rent a car in Caithness is February, when both prices and demand are low. This month offers a quieter experience and more affordable rates. Following closely, November and December also feature low prices and demand, making them good options as well. In contrast, May sees the highest prices and average demand, making it a busier time for rentals. The months leading up to May, particularly April, also reflect elevated prices and steady demand.

Find Caithness Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Caithness car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Caithness, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Caithness offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Caithness car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Caithness to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Caithness airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Caithness rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Caithness airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Caithness?
You can find cheap car rentals in Caithness from $11 a day with Budget's compact crossover. Car rentals for exploring Caithness are picked up at the region's main gateway, Aberdeen Airport (ABZ). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Wick and Thurso. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Caithness.
What are the best car rentals in Caithness?
Car rentals across Caithness offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget, broadly available in the region's main cities — Wick, Thurso, and John o' Groats. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Compact elite SUV
  • Standard SUV
  • Economy SUV
  • Compact SUV
Whether you're a solo traveler needing an economy car, a couple looking for a comfortable midsize, or a family requiring an SUV, you'll find options to suit your journey. These classes are broadly available across the region's cities. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Caithness.

What are the best car rental companies in Caithness?
For car rentals across Caithness, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Wick, Thurso, and John o' Groats. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) for exploring Caithness?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) for exploring Caithness. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Budget operate at the airport, with rates from around $23 a day. Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Wick to Thurso.
Can I rent a car one-way in Caithness?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Caithness — pick up in one city, such as Wick, and drop-off in another, like Thurso, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $15 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Caithness?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Caithness, including in Wick and Thurso. Sixt offers electric and hybrid options from $11 a day, while Enterprise also provides electric vehicles from $11 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Caithness?
For luxury car rentals across Caithness, Alamo Rent A Car offers premium 4-5 door cars from $39 a day (and premium SUV from $52), while Avis and Sixt also add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Wick and Thurso. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Caithness.
What are the best car rentals in Caithness for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Caithness, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Wick to Thurso:
  • Budget: standard SUV from $15 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $21 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: midsize passenger van from $58 a day — seats up to 9 with room for 6 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Caithness.

What are the best car rentals in Caithness for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Caithness for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Wick and Thurso:
  • Compact crossover, from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact 4-5 door, from $14 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Caithness.

What are the best car rentals in Caithness for couples?
The best car rentals in Caithness for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Wick and Thurso:
  • Midsize SUV, from $18 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $14 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. Compare options on Expedia to find the perfect car for your Caithness adventure. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Caithness.

What are the closest airports to Caithness for car rental pick-up?
Several airports offer car rental pick-up for exploring Caithness, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Aberdeen Airport (ABZ)
  • Wick John O'Groats Airport (WIC)
  • Inverness Airport (INV)
These airports provide convenient access points to start your Caithness adventure, whether you're heading to Wick, Thurso, or John o' Groats. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Caithness?
In Caithness, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities like Wick and Thurso, and the roads between them.
What are the best road trip destinations from Caithness by rental car?
A rental car in Caithness opens up several exciting road trip opportunities, allowing you to explore the wider region with ease. From the Caithness region, you can easily reach destinations like:
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Princes Street
  • Inverness Castle
These destinations offer a mix of historical landmarks and vibrant city experiences. For those interested in cultural events, you could time your visit around the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August. Additionally, consider adding an activity such as the Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour to your itinerary. With other charming cities like Wick, Thurso, and John o' Groats also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the diverse Caithness region simple and flexible for families, couples, and road-trippers. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Caithness.

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 Caithness?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Caithness. 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 Caithness?
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 Caithness?
Budget car rental in Caithness can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . 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 Caithness?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Caithness. 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 Caithness car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Caithness?
To rent a car in Caithness, 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 Caithness car rental?
If you need to cancel your Caithness 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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation