Cheap National Car Hire in Southampton

Familiarize yourself with local habits to enhance your safety and compliance on the road.

When hiring a car, especially if you’re arriving in Southampton by flight, plan for extra time at pickup to accommodate any potential delays. Suppliers like National typically offer a grace period of 30-60 minutes. Providing your flight number can be helpful, but if you’re running late, be sure to call the supplier to inform them.

When renting a car, understand the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy means you return the car with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' means you return it with the same level of fuel. Full-to-Full is often more cost-effective.

Most rental companies will require a credit card for the deposit, which is typically frozen in your account. Make sure to inquire about the specific deposit amount and the policy for releasing the freeze.

Car-sharing services can be a flexible and cost-effective solution for brief journeys.

Some rental companies offer a free tank of fuel with your rental. Be sure to understand the terms, including how much fuel you need to return the car with and any potential fees for not meeting these conditions.

Before driving away in Southampton, thoroughly inspect the car for any damage. Document any existing damage with photos or video to avoid disputes later on.

Before your trip, confirm if your rental includes roadside assistance. This can be crucial in case of breakdowns or emergencies during your rental period.