How to find a cheap car rental deal in London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
In search of a cheap London Gatwick Airport rental car? With an average price of $71 a day, you're on the road to big savings. Whether you're after a compact ride, a spacious SUV, or something else entirely, we compare all the best offers to get you real value.
Daily rental prices at London Gatwick Airport start from just $22.
Planning to stay longer? Pick up a weekly rental from $63 and take the time to discover more of London.
Timing can make all the difference when it comes to finding a cheap LGW car hire. Book about three weeks before you travel to land the best price.
Get behind the wheel with Green Motion, U-Save or Drivalia, some of the most reliable providers at London Gatwick Airport.
The coverage Green Motion or another company includes with your London Gatwick Airport car rental can vary, so be sure to read the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra charge.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to lock in a good deal if the provider needs to relocate some of its vehicles. Find the best available rates for a car for hire in LGW by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'
Save money on fuel by choosing a car rental in London Gatwick Airport that offers a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up your ride with a full tank and bring it back full, so you only pay for what you use.
Travel without limits by picking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you go as far as you want without paying more.
Best value car rental options right now
You get the best value with this company, with average prices at $51 a day.
Offering daily rates of around $51, this provider follows close behind.
The third option also makes your money go further. Expect to pay roughly $122 a day for one of their rentals.
Want a car that makes sense for everyday trips? The Economy rental category ranks as the top pick for travelers at LGW.
Compare car rental types from London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Small: Whether you're darting along city streets or taking a short trip, this cheap London Gatwick Airport rental car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and excellent mileage.
Medium: A smart pick when you need something that's easy to drive but with some added perks. This category covers compact and intermediate models that offer a bit of extra room compared to smaller options.
Large: You've got the kids, the bags, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the capacity to pack it all in without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance trips, this LGW car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: When the urge to explore hits, an SUV's all in. It's your ultimate road trip buddy, ready for country roads, highways, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Choose this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in London Gatwick Airport that makes light work of heavy loads. Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to transport more, whether that's supplies, luggage or whoever's along for the ride.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers your out-of-pocket costs if your LGW car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, it's worth considering for extra protection. Keep in mind that insurance policies vary between providers, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
Make life easier when you rent a car in London Gatwick Airport by adding a few handy extras. Think things like a navigation system to be your trusty co-pilot, or reverse cameras that give you confidence when parking.
Good to know
You usually have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United Kingdom. Younger drivers can sometimes still qualify — just expect some extra rules or charges. Check the companies' terms and conditions before you book.
Bringing the kids with you? Car seat laws vary from one place to another, and the best setup may depend on their weight, height and age. Confirm whether you need to add one to your LGW car rental booking.
Come prepared to keep the pick-up process smooth. You'll generally need your physical driver's license (no digital copies) plus another photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If anything extra is required, you'll find it in your booking.
If you're unfamiliar with driving in the United Kingdom, keep in mind that traffic here keeps to the left side of the road.
Local speed limits are usually about 25mph in built-up areas and around 65mph on highways. Road signs will show if a different limit applies.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United Kingdom is 0.08%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the only way to be certain you're safe to drive is to skip the drinks.
Drive smarter from the start
Set off for anywhere you choose in your LGW car hire. If central London is your starting point, you'll find it about 25 miles north of the airport.
During peak hour, expect the drive from London Gatwick Airport to the center to take up to 2 hours 5 minutes.
Aim to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a faster run. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
Don't need a set of wheels right away? Consider grabbing a car rental in London instead of at the airport. That way, you won't pay for days you don't use.
Extend your search by exploring what's available at other London airports. Check out the range of car rental options at London Heathrow Airport or car rentals from London Stansted Airport.
Hit the road: Where to drive from London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Begin with some of the most popular attractions in London, like The British Museum and Westminster Abbey. Whether you take your car or get there another way, set aside time for these highlights before moving on.
Buckle up and make tracks to Reading. Around 40 miles northwest of LGW, you'll find favorite sights like Reading Abbey Ruins and Reading river cruise Thames.
Or collect your London Gatwick Airport car rental and take off to Luton. Roughly 50 miles north of the airport, The Walled Garden and Cowslip Meadow Nature Reserve are major attractions that are worth going out of your way for.
Still got fuel in the tank? Cruise on over to Cardiff, around 130 miles west of LGW. From Cardiff Castle to St. Fagans National Museum of History, it'll round out your trip nicely.
