Southampton car hire
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Southampton car hire information
| Pick-up location | Southampton |
|---|---|
| Car types | |
| Hire locations | 3 |
| Airport locations | 0 |
Cheap car hire in Southampton
| Mini |
| Economy |
| Compact |
| Intermediate |
| Standard |
| Full-size |
| Luxury |
| People carrier |
| Passenger van |
| SUV |
| Commercial |
| Pick-up truck |
KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Southampton
- Utilizing car rentals in Southampton affords additional benefits compared to alternative transportation methods. Southampton car rentals grant drivers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, as they can travel anywhere they desire without relying on shared modes of transportation like public buses or taxis. Having a car also affords greater exploration opportunities for travelers. Tourists to Southampton can explore attractions like Southampton Art Center, Shinnecock Indian Museum, and Southampton Historical Museum.
- For those planning to drive car rentals in Southampton, a rental center is located in major entry points to the city, like Islip Long Island Airport (ISP), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). At ISP, car rentals are at the consolidated Ground Transportation Center, a short walk from the main terminal. Passengers arriving at JFK will take the AirTrain to the rental facility, located a short ride away. The rental facility at LGA is also a short ride away, with a free shuttle picking up passengers from the frontage of all airport terminals. Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget are some popular agencies at these airports.
- You must always be alert when driving car rentals in Southampton. The roads are generally very busy as locals and visitors alike move around the city. Drivers should pay close attention to pedestrians, given their tendency to walk unexpectedly into the street. Additionally, parking may prove challenging due to potential restrictions in specific locations, so it's essential to thoroughly review any posted signs. Finally, refrain from using bus lanes, which are strictly reserved for public transport vehicles.
- The dense population of Southampton makes driving particularly troublesome during peak travel times. Morning rush hour starts at about 7 am and continues until about 9 am. It starts again in the early evening at around 4 pm and continues until 5 pm. During these specific hours each day, there tends to be heavy traffic, especially on major streets. The worst roads affected include Hill Street, North Sea Road, Flying Point Road, and Majors Path.
- Book your car hire in Southampton at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Economy car hire in Southampton are around 34% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about car hire in Southampton
How much is the price of fuel in Southampton?
The average price of fuel in Southampton is £3.10 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between £37 and £50, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular car hire in Southampton?
Economy (Ford Fiesta or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Southampton.
How can I find car hires near me in Southampton?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does an Economy car hire cost in Southampton?
An Economy car hire in Southampton costs £39 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car hire cost in Southampton?
A Compact car hire in Southampton costs £59 per day, on average.
Should I get insurance when hiring a car in Southampton?
Most car hire providers in Southampton offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car hire in Southampton, check out KAYAK's car hire insurance guide.
What type of car is recommended for driving in Southampton?
Compact cars like sedans and hatchbacks are a popular choice for navigating the city center, as their small size allows for easy maneuvering through busy streets and traffic. For travelers looking for improved traction and handling in inclement weather or on uneven terrain at popular attractions like Peconic Estuary and Old Town Pond, it is recommended to choose an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle. This type of car is well-suited to exploring Southampton's nearby countryside, as its features provide better control in wet and slippery conditions. In addition, economy cars offer commuters in Southampton a practical choice for navigating the area with minimal expense.
What’s the speed limit in Southampton?
The speed restrictions in Southampton are 20 mph for residential areas, in the city center, and around school zones. It is 55 mph for highways like Sunrise Highway and Montauk Highway. Visitors should recognize that speed limits are widespread and heed these regulations to avoid receiving citations or worse outcomes. Southampton places speed cameras strategically at popular locations, including nearby educational facilities and public parks. It is essential to recognize that speed restrictions may differ in adjacent communities and should be observed accordingly.
Where are the best places to park in Southampton?
Locating parking in Southampton's city center can prove challenging, most notably during busy hours. There are multiple places to park within the city, from parking lots to street spots, though some may charge a fee. There are also several parking garages in and around Southampton, such as the West and East Main Street Lots, which offer a variety of rate plans ranging from one-time to monthly passes, and charges are up to around $3 for an hour. It is crucial to recognize that parking in restricted areas without permission is illegal, and overstaying in a designated space can also result in penalties. Those who desire a less complicated and affordable parking experience may find that parking outside the city center and using public transportation to get to your downtown destination is the better choice.
Southampton car hire reviews and directory
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
9.0
Wonderful
6 reviewsCleanliness
9.0
Comfort
9.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.0
Value for money
8.2
3 locations in Southampton
Locations in Southampton
200 Daniels Hole Road
+1 631 537 4800
29950 Main Rd
+1 631 369 6300
395 County Rd 39a
+1 631 283 0055
Filters
Reviews
8.0 Very Good
Nov 2023
7.6 Good
Oct 2015
Pros:
Service at pick up was good and thoroughCons:
Details of pick up were not detailed enough and let to confusion on location.10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2022
8.0 Very Good
May 2022
Budget
8.6
Very Good
9 reviewsCleanliness
9.3
Comfort
8.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.3
Value for money
7.3
One location in Southampton
Locations in Southampton
691 County Road 39a
+1 631 283 3057
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2018
Pros:
Great people, flexibility, car comfortable2.0 Poor
May 2017
Pros:
NothingCons:
I rented a 12 person van and when I went to pick it up I was informed that they cancelled my reservation even though I received a confirmation email the day before. I had to rent a 8 person expedition that I had to put 10 people in for 4 hours. Also the car was extrely dirty and one of the seatbelts wasn't even attached. Will never use kayak or budget ever again. Thanks for a miserable experience.2.0 Poor
May 2017
Cons:
No one was in the office when I picked up8.0 Very Good
Aug 2016
Cons:
Wait on check in8.8 Very Good
Jul 2016
Pros:
We were upgraded from a standard car to an SUV for free. That was awesome!Cons:
Nonthing6.0 Okay
Jun 2022
Avis
7.5
Good
2 reviewsCleanliness
7.5
Comfort
7.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.5
Value for money
6.5
One location in Southampton
Locations in Southampton
691 County Road 39a
+1 631 283 9111
Filters
Reviews
8.0 Very Good
Aug 2022
Hertz
5.0
Fair
20 reviewsCleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
5.0
Value for money
5.0
4 locations in Southampton
Locations in Southampton
12 Midhampton Ave
+1 631 653 6040
1640 Montauk Highway
+1 631 237 4518
200 Daniels Hole Road
+1 631 283 1584
59 Maple St
+1 631 283 1584
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Jun 2020
Pros:
Nothing teribile experienceCons:
Wrong car, no contract (“computer not working-will send later” - never received) higher than expected price2.0 Poor
Jul 2019
Cons:
We did not rent a car in SH recently. If you have a record of it, please let me know. Thank you.10.0 Wonderful
Sept 2017
Pros:
I'll never rent from Avis. Terrible experience with them. I have been aHertz customer for ages. Although I check the prices every time, I have never felt the need to go elsewhere.3.6 Poor
Sept 2017
Cons:
Pickup and dropoff was disorganized, they overcharged me, and the car was dirty and barely had 1/4 tank of gas.2.0 Poor
Jul 2017
Cons:
I was able to make a reservation through kayak for Sunday-Sunday at water mill. This despite the water mill location being closed on sundays, unbeknownst to me. I had to pick up my car a day late, drop it off in a different location, and hertz tried to charge me double to rebook my reservation to accommodate the correct times. Totally unacceptable, basically a bait and switch.10.0 Wonderful
May 2017
Cons:
Wish there was afterhour drop off in locations north of Bradley airportEasirent
4.6
Mediocre
No reviews available
One location in Southampton
Locations in Southampton
Filters
No reviews available
Car hire locations in or near Southampton
Good to know
Most popular car type | Economy |
|---|
When to book a car hire in Southampton
Car hire insurance in Southampton
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) & Theft Protection Waiver
Some Southampton car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend being aware of your coverage when hiring a car in Southampton.
Deductible
Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a non-deductible option to your Southampton car hire.