Highland Car Rentals

These Highland insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 20, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in Highland

Renting a car in Highland, Scotland, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this stunning region at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your interests. This is especially beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures, as you can visit key attractions like Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, which offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences. You might also want to explore the cultural richness of Inverness Castle or enjoy the picturesque views at Portree Harbour.

Conveniently, a rental car allows you to visit popular destinations such as Inverness, Fort William, and Oban. In Inverness, you can explore historical sites like Urquhart Castle and Inverness Cathedral. Fort William provides access to the Nevis Range Mountain Experience, while Oban invites you to relax at Ganavan Sands. Overall, a rental car enhances your ability to experience the diverse beauty and attractions of Highland, making it an ideal choice for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Scotland's natural and historical wonders.

Most popular car rentals in Highland

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for travelers in Highland, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families looking for a comfortable ride while exploring the scenic landscapes of Highland. Its size strikes a balance between spaciousness and maneuverability, allowing you to navigate both rural roads and city streets with ease.
• Economy: The Economy car option is another favored selection in Highland, also accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. Perfect for solo adventurers or couples, this car type is designed for efficient travel and budget-friendly exploration. Its smaller size contributes to easy handling and parking, making it a practical choice for those wishing to enjoy the freedom of the open road.
• Midsize SUV: For those traveling with families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option in Highland. It accommodates 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, providing ample storage for luggage and gear. This vehicle type offers additional comfort and space, making it a great choice for longer journeys or when you need a bit more room to stretch out during your travels.

Where to stay in Highland

• Inverness: A vibrant city in the heart of Highland, Inverness offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Key attractions include the stunning Inverness Castle, a romantic spot for couples, and Urquhart Castle, which boasts fascinating ruins. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby national parks, offering breathtaking scenery. Inverness is also close to various restaurants and distilleries, making it a great base for exploring the local cuisine and spirits. Ideal for outdoor activities, Inverness is particularly appealing during the warmer months when the scenery is most captivating.
• Fort William: Known as the outdoor capital of the UK, Fort William is perfect for adventure seekers. Nestled at the base of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, this city is an excellent starting point for hiking trails and skiing during the winter season. The historic Inverlochy Castle adds a cultural touch, while the Nevis Range Mountain Experience offers thrilling cable car rides with panoramic views. Fort William is also home to numerous restaurants and distilleries, providing visitors with local flavors to enjoy after a day of exploration.
• Oban: A charming coastal town, Oban is ideal for those seeking seaside beauty and outdoor activities. With its picturesque Ganavan Sands beach, visitors can enjoy relaxing by the water or engaging in various water sports. The historic Connel Bridge and the Oban War and Peace Museum provide cultural insights into the area. Oban's proximity to national parks and lakes makes it a great choice for nature lovers. The town also features several restaurants and distilleries, allowing travelers to taste local cuisine and spirits while taking in the stunning views.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Highland

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often secures lower rates and improves availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive 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 categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals follow a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most favorable option. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may be worth the extra cost.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Highland

The best time to rent a car in Highland is February, when both prices and demand are low, offering great value. March also presents a good opportunity with slightly lower prices and average demand. However, as spring approaches, demand starts to rise, especially in May, which tends to be busy and moderately priced. The late fall, particularly December, is the most expensive time for rentals, with high demand and prices typically elevated during the holiday season.