Oxford Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Oxford

Renting a car in Oxford offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Oxford Castle, Christ Church College, and the Bodleian Library, all located within the city centre. This convenience is particularly beneficial for families, allowing you to manage luggage easily and keep everyone together while exploring cultural sites.

Additionally, a vehicle enables you to venture beyond the city limits to nearby destinations like Abingdon, which is only 9 km away and features sites such as Milton Manor House and Abingdon Abbey. Bicester, situated 18 km from Oxford, boasts beautiful locations like Blenheim Palace and Waddesdon Manor. With your own car, you can plan your travel itinerary without worrying about public transport schedules, ensuring a comfortable experience as you discover the rich history and culture of the region.

Most popular car rentals in Oxford

• Economy: The Economy car is a highly popular choice among travellers in Oxford, accommodating up to 5 people and allowing for 2 medium suitcases. This option is especially ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families who seek a budget-friendly vehicle while enjoying the freedom to explore Oxford at their own pace.
• Compact: Another frequently booked option is the Compact car, which also accommodates up to 5 travellers but offers space for 3 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it a great fit for solo adventurers, couples, or families wanting a bit more luggage capacity while maintaining ease of navigation in the city.
• Midsize SUV: For those in need of additional space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice, fitting up to 5 travellers and accommodating 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who require more room for luggage and comfort, making it ideal for longer trips around Oxford and its surrounding areas.

Top rated car suppliers in Oxford

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Oxford, known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles. With one rental location in the area, Alamo offers a straightforward experience for those looking to hire a car. The Midsize SUV and Compact models are particularly popular, providing ample space and comfort for your journeys around Oxford and beyond. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the cars and the ease of the return process, making Alamo a reliable option for your car rental needs.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with its two locations in Oxford, making it convenient for travellers to pick up a vehicle close to their accommodation. This supplier is highly regarded for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental options. The Compact and Standard Van models are frequently booked, catering to various travel needs. Customers have praised the helpful staff and seamless check-in process, ensuring a smooth start to your exploration of Oxford and its surroundings.
• Hertz: With two rental locations in Oxford, Hertz provides easy access to a range of vehicle options. Known for its quality service, Hertz offers Midsize SUVs and Compact cars that are popular among renters. Customers often highlight the reliable performance of Hertz vehicles and the efficient rental process. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction makes it a solid choice for those looking to enjoy the flexibility of driving around Oxford and exploring the beautiful countryside at their own pace.

Where to stay in and around Oxford

• Oxford City Centre: The vibrant heart of Oxford, the City Centre offers a rich cultural experience with easy access to historic landmarks such as Oxford Castle, Christ Church College, and the Bodleian Library. It’s an ideal spot for families and culture enthusiasts alike, featuring a variety of shopping areas and dining options, including local distilleries and restaurants. This neighbourhood truly embodies the essence of Oxford, making it a prime location for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
• Bicester: Located 18 km from Oxford, Bicester is perfect for those who appreciate shopping and historic sites. With attractions like Rousham House and Gardens, Blenheim Palace, and Waddesdon Manor nearby, visitors can enjoy a mix of culture and leisure. The city also features shopping malls and a vibrant dining scene, including sweet treats and distilleries. Bicester is particularly appealing for families and business travellers looking for a bustling atmosphere.
• Abingdon: Just 9 km away from Oxford, Abingdon is known for its family-friendly and cultural experiences. The city features historical attractions such as Milton Manor House, Abingdon Abbey, and Wittenham Clumps, all of which offer a glimpse into the area's rich history. With nearby shopping centres and a variety of dining options, including local distilleries and wineries, Abingdon is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the outdoors and enjoy the local culture.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option 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. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced mix of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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 incidents during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning 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 licence is required to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Oxford

The best value period to rent a car in and around Oxford is February, when both prices and demand are low. Surrounding months like November and March also offer reasonable rates with moderate demand. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand increasing. June also sees a similar pattern, where demand is high and prices can be slightly elevated. Overall, February and the nearby months present a more budget-friendly option for car rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
February	40.1°F (4.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	43.0°F (6.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
July	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low
September	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average