Bristol Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bristol

Renting a car in Bristol offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. Whether you are an adventure seeker or someone who enjoys scenic views, having a rental car allows you to visit key attractions like the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge and the fascinating SS Great Britain maritime museum, both located in the heart of Bristol.

Additionally, you can venture further afield to destinations such as Wotton-under-Edge, where you can explore Westonbirt Arboretum and Highgrove House and Gardens, or head to Clevedon to enjoy the coastal beauty of Clevedon Beach. The convenience of a rental car means you can discover Bristol City Centre's highlights, including Queen Square, without relying on public transport. For families, a rental car provides ample space for strollers and gear, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Overall, renting a car in Bristol enhances your ability to experience the city and its beautiful surroundings on your own terms.

Most popular car rentals in Bristol

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those travelling in Bristol, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families who appreciate the ease of manoeuvrability in the city. Its smaller size makes it ideal for navigating narrow streets and finding parking, allowing you to explore Bristol at your leisure while managing your luggage with convenience.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is an excellent option for families, couples, or small groups, comfortably seating up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle provides a blend of space and versatility, making it suitable for longer journeys or when carrying larger items. With its elevated driving position and robust build, the Midsize SUV is perfect for enjoying the scenic routes around Bristol while ensuring ample room for everyone and their belongings.
• Economy: The Economy car type is ideal for budget-conscious travellers, accommodating 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for an economical way to explore Bristol. The compact nature of Economy cars makes them easy to drive and park, making your travel experience more enjoyable as you navigate through the city’s attractions with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Bristol

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a great choice for travellers in Bristol, offering two convenient rental locations in the area. Known for its excellent service, Alamo provides a variety of vehicles, with Compact and Midsize SUVs being the most popular options among customers. Renting from Alamo allows you the flexibility to explore Bristol and its surroundings comfortably and at your own pace.
• Enterprise: With four rental locations throughout Bristol, Enterprise is a top choice for those seeking convenience and a wide selection of vehicles. Their most booked options include Premium SUVs and Mini cars, catering to various preferences and needs. The company is recognised for its customer service, making your experience smooth and enjoyable while you explore the vibrant city and its attractions.
• Europcar: Europcar operates two rental locations in the Bristol area, providing a solid option for car rentals. Their most frequently booked vehicles are Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, making it easy for you to find the right fit for your trip. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Europcar ensures that you can navigate Bristol and its vicinity with ease and comfort.

Where to stay in Bristol

• Bristol City Centre: Bristol City Centre is ideal for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere with family-friendly, outdoor, and city-themed experiences. It boasts attractions such as the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge and the maritime museum SS Great Britain. Visitors can explore the marina, enjoy shopping at local centres, and relax in Queen Square, all while having access to diverse dining options including restaurants and distilleries.
• Wotton-under-Edge: Wotton-under-Edge offers a charming escape for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, as well as families. This city features stunning natural landscapes and historic sites, including the scenic Westonbirt Arboretum and the historic Highgrove House. With opportunities for golf, shopping, and visits to local distilleries, Wotton-under-Edge is a delightful destination for those looking to explore the countryside.
• Clifton: Clifton is a picturesque neighbourhood perfect for families and outdoor lovers. With its iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and the urban park Clifton Down, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery and engaging activities. The area is also home to shopping centres and a variety of dining options, making it a well-rounded choice for travellers who appreciate both culture and leisure.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use Expedia's filters to discover the best options for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking early often allows you to lock in lower rates and increases your chances of finding better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure to return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge when collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience might justify the expense.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bristol

The best time to rent a car in and around Bristol is February, when prices are moderately low and demand is low. March follows closely, with the lowest demand of the year, making it another good choice for value. In contrast, April sees a rise in prices and demand, making it the most expensive month for rentals. While May through August are busy periods with higher demand, the prices remain steady during those months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
February	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately High
May	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
August	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
September	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
December	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High