Car Hire Bristol Airport
Renting a car at Bristol Airport is a convenient way to explore Bristol and the surrounding regions at your own pace. The airport hosts a dedicated Car Rental Centre, located just a short, free shuttle bus ride from the terminal. Buses depart every 10–15 minutes from bus stops 2 and 3 outside the Arrivals Hall, taking you directly to the Car Rental Village.
Prices and Popular Car Types
Rental prices at Bristol Airport typically start from around £23–£33 per day for a small car, with the average cost for a standard rental being about £37 per day if booked in advance. Prices vary by season, vehicle type, and rental duration.
The most popular car type is the small or compact car, ideal for navigating Bristol’s narrow city streets and for ease of parking. Other frequently rented vehicles include SUVs, people carriers (for families or groups), and eco-friendly or electric cars for city driving.
Popular Destinations
With a rental car, travellers often visit:
- Bristol city centre (15 minutes away)
- Bath and the Cotswolds
- Mendip Hills National Park
- Seaside towns like Weston-super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea
Insurance and Coverage
Basic insurance is included in most car hire agreements, covering collision damage waiver (CDW) and third-party liability. However, this usually comes with an excess (the amount you pay towards any claim), which can be reduced or removed by purchasing additional coverage at the rental desk. Optional extras such as theft protection, personal accident insurance, and roadside assistance are also available for an added fee. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your rental agreement before driving away.
What You’ll Need
To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver’s license (an international license may be required for non-UK residents), a passport or ID, and a credit card. Drivers must usually be at least 21 years old, and a young driver surcharge may apply to those under 25.
Renting a car at Bristol Airport offers flexibility and convenience, making it easy to discover the best of South West England and beyond.
Car rental companies
In Bristol Airport you can find the following car rental companies:
ACE
Alamo
Avis
Budget
DRIVALIA Mobility Store
Enterprise
Europcar
Green Motion
Hertz
National
Sixt
Thrifty
Location
Find each car hire company desk at the Car Rental Centre, near Silver Zone Car Park. Also, there is a shuttle bus service which takes passengers to the Car Rental Centre (service on demand). For more information, please contact your car hire operator.