Car Hire Gatwick Airport: Find the Best Deals
Gatwick is one of the busiest airports in the UK, and renting a car there is one of the easiest ways to reach the Sussex coast, the South Downs, or destinations further afield without relying on trains or transfers. This guide covers everything you need to know before you rent a car at Gatwick Airport in 2026, from terminal pickup to booking tips and common questions.
Why Rent a Car at Gatwick?
Gatwick Airport sits close to major routes including the M23 and M25, giving drivers quick access to London, Brighton, and the surrounding Surrey and Sussex countryside. For travellers heading beyond central London, a rental car often works out far more convenient than juggling trains and local transport.
Choosing to rent a car Gatwick Airport offers also makes sense for business travellers with multiple stops planned, or families wanting the flexibility to explore at their own pace. With direct access to the motorway network right from the airport, you can be on the road within minutes of landing.
North vs South Terminal Pick-Up
Most car rental desks at Gatwick are located in the South Terminal, where the majority of major suppliers operate their pickup and drop off counters. If you land at the North Terminal, you'll typically need to take the free inter terminal shuttle to reach most rental desks, since only a limited number of suppliers operate directly from North Terminal.
Before you fly, it's worth checking which terminal your chosen supplier operates from, since this affects how much extra time to build into your arrival plans. Confirming this detail in advance helps you avoid unnecessary delays after a long flight.
Best Rental Companies
Several major suppliers operate at Gatwick, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Enterprise, Sixt, and Budget, alongside a number of smaller local operators that sometimes offer more competitive pricing. Rather than sticking with one brand by default, comparing rates across suppliers for your specific dates is the most reliable way to find the best deal.
You can run a live comparison across these suppliers using the car rental search tool, which pulls pricing from multiple companies at once for your exact pickup dates and vehicle type.
Booking Tips
A few simple habits make a real difference in what you end up paying for car rental London Gatwick bookings.
- Book in advance, since prices typically rise closer to your travel date, especially during school holidays
- Compare the full price, including taxes and fees, rather than just the headline daily rate
- Check whether basic insurance is included, and review excess protection options separately
- Confirm your pickup terminal ahead of time to avoid unexpected shuttle delays
- Review the fuel policy carefully to avoid surprise charges when returning the vehicle
For more general advice on comparing rental deals across the UK, the cheap car hire UK guide covers additional money saving strategies that apply beyond Gatwick as well.
FAQs
What documents do I need to hire a car in Gatwick?
You'll need a valid driving licence, a passport or national ID, and a physical credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit.
Which terminal should I collect my rental car from?
Most suppliers operate from the South Terminal. If you land at the North Terminal, you'll usually need to take the free shuttle service to reach your rental desk.
Is it cheaper to book in advance or last minute?
Booking in advance is generally cheaper and gives you a wider choice of vehicles, particularly during peak summer travel and school holiday periods.
Can I return my rental car to a different location?
Many suppliers allow one way rentals for an additional fee, though this depends on the specific company and your intended route.
Do I need to pay a deposit at pickup?
Most suppliers require a refundable security deposit on a credit card at pickup, separate from the prepaid rental cost shown at booking.
For more travel planning advice beyond Gatwick, the travel guides and tips section covers additional UK and international destinations. If you have questions about an existing booking, the customer support page is available to help.