How to find a cheap car hire deal in Birmingham (BHX)
Searching for a cheap Birmingham rental car? You've landed in the right place. With prices averaging $283 a day, we compare the best offers so you can choose fast, spend less, and drive away happy.
Daily rental prices at Birmingham start from just $45.
Staying on a bit longer? Grab a weekly rental from $313 and explore beyond the usual highlights of Birmingham.
If you want to get the best price, book your BHX car hire around one week in advance.
Green Motion, Drivalia and Alamo are the most popular providers at Birmingham.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Birmingham car hire policy, whether you go with Green Motion or any other supplier. Some companies might not include it in the base price and instead sell it separately.
Booking one-way could snag you a cheaper rate on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be relocated. Simply select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in BHX.
Avoid any surprise charges by booking a car hire in Birmingham with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, and pay only for what you use.
Hit the highway without tracking every mile and racking up additional charges. Go to the 'Policies' filter and pick 'Unlimited mileage' to find a car that lets you travel without limits.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best value with this company. Prices average $129 a day.
Ranking second is this provider, which offers daily rates of around $128.
The third option won't stretch your budget either. You'll pay roughly $206 a day with this supplier.
The Compact rental category is a dependable pick if you're not sure what kind of ride you need. It's also the car type that's rented the most at BHX.
Compare car hire types from Birmingham (BHX)
Small: Whether you're cruising narrow city streets or taking a quick trip, this cheap Birmingham rental car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect good fuel efficiency and easy handling.
Medium: A solid choice when you need something that's easy to drive but with some added perks. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a bit of extra room compared to smaller options.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this BHX car hire category. Also known as full-size, they have the engine size to match the journey. The extra space and comfort make them a great option for families and groups of friends.
SUV: SUVs are adventure on four wheels. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and country routes alike.
Van: Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Birmingham makes light work of big hauls and group travel. They're tough, dependable, and built to take on any task.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers your out-of-pocket costs if your BHX car hire is stolen or damaged. While not mandatory, it helps cover you in a tough spot. Keep in mind that not all insurance policies are equal, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
From GPS units to reverse cameras, the right extras can make all the difference. Think about which extras will suit your needs when you rent a car in Birmingham.
Good to know
To rent a vehicle in the United Kingdom, you typically have to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may offer rentals to younger drivers for a higher fee, so always go over the policies before confirming your booking.
Add a car seat to your BHX car rental reservation if you're bringing the kids. Requirements change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size and age is always the safest way to go.
Bring the right documents and keep pick-up quick and easy. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (no digital copies) plus another photo ID. Also bring a credit card with enough available balance to cover the deposit. If extra requirements apply, your booking will list them.
Driving in the United Kingdom might take some adjustment for first-time visitors. Keep in mind you'll need to stay on the left side of the road.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's normally around 40kph in built-up areas and 100kph or so along highways. Always obey the road signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United Kingdom is 0.08%. Because alcohol affects each person differently, the surest choice is to avoid drinks so you remain legal to drive.
The British pound (GBP) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and excursions. Pay with a credit or debit card when you can, but have some cash ready when electronic payments aren't possible.
Drive smarter from the start
After you've grabbed the keys to your BHX car hire, the road is yours to conquer. Central Birmingham is about 14 kilometres west and a drive of around 25 minutes if that's your first stop.
Allow roughly 50 minutes to travel from Birmingham to the city centre during rush hours.
Try to travel outside high-traffic periods for a faster run in general. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
Don't need a set of wheels as soon as you arrive? Think about grabbing a car hire in Birmingham instead of at the airport. That way, you won't pay for days you don't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Birmingham (BHX)
Start with some of the top attractions in Birmingham, like Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre. Whether you drive or find an alternative way there, you'll want to check out these highlights before you move on.
Navigate your way to Wolverhampton. Around 31 kilometres northwest of BHX, it's home to must-do sights like Wightwick Manor and Gardens and Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal.
Alternatively, get behind the wheel of your Birmingham car hire and head roughly 80 kilometres southeast to Milton Keynes. Featuring Bletchley Park and Milton Keynes Theatre, its highlights live up to the buzz.
Why slow down now? Take off to Bristol, around 129 kilometres southwest of BHX. From Banksey to Clifton Suspension Bridge, it makes for a well-rounded adventure.
