$38 Car Rental Southampton

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Southampton

Renting a car in Southampton offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those traveling with family or luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while enjoying various attractions. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit Ocean Village Marina for outdoor adventures or Mayflower Park for a family-friendly urban experience right within the city. Additionally, the stunning New Forest National Park, located just 10 miles away, is perfect for those seeking scenic views and outdoor activities.

A car also makes it easier to explore nearby destinations such as Eastleigh, only 5 miles away, where you can find attractions like Valley Park and Paultons Family Theme Park. Furthermore, the Maritime Quarter provides access to both New Forest National Park and Beaulieu National Motor Museum. Having your own vehicle ensures that you can make the most of your trip, visiting these diverse locations without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Most popular car rentals in Southampton

• Economy: The most popular choice among travelers in Southampton, the Economy car accommodates up to 5 passengers and allows for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families seeking an affordable and efficient way to navigate the area. Its compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver through city streets, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Compact: Another favored option, the Compact car also accommodates 5 travelers but offers a little more space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a great choice for those traveling with additional luggage. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families alike, the Compact car provides a balance of comfort and efficiency, ensuring you can easily get around Southampton and enjoy your trip without feeling cramped.
• Midsize SUV: For those who need a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic option. It comfortably accommodates 5 passengers and provides room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups. With its added height and versatility, a Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride while allowing you to carry all your essentials. This type of vehicle is perfect for those who prefer a more spacious driving experience while exploring Southampton.

Top rated car suppliers in Southampton

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo provides a reliable car rental experience with 3 convenient locations in Southampton. Known for their excellent customer service, Alamo’s most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, which are perfect for navigating both urban and rural areas. Renting from Alamo gives you the flexibility to explore Southampton and its surroundings at your own pace, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.
• Europcar: Europcar offers a solid choice for travelers with 2 rental locations in Southampton. Their most booked vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, cater to various travel needs, making them ideal for families or groups. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Europcar ensures a seamless rental process, allowing you to focus on experiencing the sights and attractions around Southampton.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental is another excellent option with 2 locations in Southampton. They are well-regarded for their efficient service and a diverse fleet that includes popular Midsize SUVs and Compacts. National’s commitment to customer care ensures that your rental experience will be hassle-free, letting you explore Southampton and nearby destinations comfortably and conveniently.

Where to stay in and around Southampton

• The Polygon: The Polygon is a vibrant neighborhood in Southampton known for its family-friendly and outdoor experiences. It offers easy access to attractions like the New Forest National Park, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, and Paultons Family Theme Park, home to Peppa Pig World, ideal for families. The area also features a shopping mall center and various entertainment options, making it a great choice for travelers looking to explore local theaters and enjoy recreational activities.
• Southampton City Centre: Southampton City Centre is the heart of the city, attracting visitors interested in outdoor activities and beach experiences. Key attractions include Ocean Village Marina, where you can enjoy scenic views and outdoor adventures, and Mayflower Park, a lovely urban park suitable for family outings. The area also boasts a variety of shopping options and nearby food venues, including alcohol distilleries and wineries, making it an excellent base for those wanting to experience the city's vibrant culture.
• Lyndhurst: Located 8 miles from Southampton, Lyndhurst is a charming city known for its stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. It is close to the New Forest National Park, popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the New Forest Museum for cultural insights or enjoy recreational activities at nearby golf courses. With its picturesque landscapes and family-friendly attractions like Paultons Family Theme Park, Lyndhurst offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Southampton

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, utilize Expedia’s filters to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before reserving.
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 option is usually the most economical. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might be worth the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something goes awry during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra fees.
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 Southampton

The best time to rent a car in and around Southampton is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. These months provide excellent value for those looking to explore the area. March and April follow closely, with average prices and demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, featuring high demand and slightly high prices. June through August also see increased rental activity, making them busier periods for car rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
December	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Southampton

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Southampton

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Southampton. 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 Southampton

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $38.

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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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals