Reading Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Reading

Renting a car in Reading offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can effortlessly manage your luggage and plan your travel itinerary without the constraints of public transport. This is particularly appealing for families and those interested in outdoor and cultural experiences. You can visit key attractions such as Shinfield Studios, which is great for family visits, and the Reading Museum and Town Hall, a wonderful spot for culture enthusiasts. Additionally, Thames Valley Park provides a serene environment for relaxation.

A rental car also allows for convenient day trips to nearby destinations. Henley-on-Thames is just 10 km away, featuring notable sites like Henley Bridge and LEGOLAND® Windsor. In the Reading City Centre, you can explore Reading Abbey Ruins and Forbury Gardens. Furthermore, a short drive to Aldermaston will take you to Highclere Castle and Donnington Castle. With a rental car, you can make the most of your time in and around Reading, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Most popular car rentals in Reading

• Economy: The Economy car is a highly popular choice for travellers in Reading. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. This option offers a balance of affordability and practicality, allowing you to explore Reading at your own pace without the burden of excess luggage. Its compact size also makes it easy to navigate through the city’s streets and find parking.
• Compact: The Compact car is another frequently booked option in Reading, designed for up to 5 travellers and capable of carrying up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families who need a bit more luggage space. The Compact’s efficiency and versatility allow for smooth driving experiences, whether you're navigating urban roads or heading out to explore the picturesque surroundings of Reading. It's a great choice for those seeking convenience and comfort.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers and providing ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option combines the spaciousness of an SUV with the convenience needed for exploring Reading. Its higher seating position offers great visibility on the road, while the additional room ensures comfort for all passengers. Whether you're planning longer trips or simply need extra space for your belongings, the Midsize SUV is a reliable choice.

Top rated car suppliers in Reading

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travellers in Reading, offering a convenient rental location in the area. Known for their reliable vehicles, the most frequently booked options include Economy and Compact cars. Customers appreciate the flexibility that comes with renting from Hertz, allowing them to explore Reading and its surroundings at their own pace. The combination of quality service and well-maintained vehicles makes Hertz a strong contender for your car rental needs.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations in Reading, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and diverse range of vehicles. Travellers often prefer Compact and Midsize SUVs from Enterprise, which cater to various needs and preferences. The staff is praised for their helpfulness and efficiency, ensuring a smooth rental experience. With ample options and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Enterprise is a formidable choice for those looking to hire a car in Reading.

Where to stay in and around Reading

• Reading City Centre: The vibrant heart of Reading, this neighbourhood offers a blend of family-friendly and business-themed experiences. With attractions such as the Reading Museum and Town Hall, and the historic Reading Abbey Ruins, there’s plenty to explore. For a relaxing outing, visit Forbury Gardens, a lovely urban park nearby. The local dining scene includes a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient spot for both business travellers and families to stay.
• Henley-on-Thames: Situated 10 km from Reading, Henley-on-Thames is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. The area is renowned for its recreational spaces, golf courses, and beautiful landscapes. Key points of interest include the historic Henley Bridge and Cliveden House, both ideal for cultural exploration. Additionally, Henley-on-Thames has nearby wineries and distilleries, providing delightful options for food and drink enthusiasts.
• Maidenhead: Located 19 km from Reading, Maidenhead is an excellent destination for outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy golf and explore historic sites such as Cliveden House and Windsor Castle. This city is also home to LEGOLAND® Windsor, making it an attractive option for families. With a selection of restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Maidenhead offers a charming atmosphere for those looking to unwind while discovering local culture.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, making it wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are 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 crowded areas. Mid-size options 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—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can be acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might 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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
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 Reading

The best value period to rent a car in and around Reading is January, when both prices and demand are low. February follows closely, offering average demand and still low prices. As spring arrives, April brings average prices with low demand, while May sees a slight increase in both. However, June through August are the peak months, with average prices and high demand. By contrast, December is the most expensive month, with high prices and steady demand throughout.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.7°F (4.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
February	40.8°F (4.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Low
March	43.9°F (6.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
April	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
May	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	59.5°F (15.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
August	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
September	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	High
November	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	High
December	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	High