Bristol car hire
Search hundreds of hire car sites at once for hire car deals in Bristol
Save up to 42%Compare multiple travel sites with one search.
Free to useThere are no hidden charges or fees
Filter your dealsFilter by car type, brand and more. Instantly customise your results.
Book with flexibilityUse our "free cancellation" filter for maximum flexibility at no extra cost.
Cheap car hire in Bristol
| Mini |
| Economy |
| Compact |
| Intermediate |
| Standard |
| Full-size |
| Luxury |
| People carrier |
| Passenger van |
| SUV |
| Commercial |
| Pick-up truck |
KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Bristol
- Bristol car rentals provide flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace without being restricted by public transportation schedules. This freedom is precious when visiting places like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the SS Great Britain, and the picturesque Cotswolds villages. While public transport might be available, one often needs more convenience and direct access a car provides, making car rentals the optimal choice for a comprehensive and personalized Bristol experience.
- Upon arriving at Tri-Cities Airport (TRI), convenient rental car counters are within the terminal on the ground level. After securing your rental from agenciess like National or other reputable companies, proceed to the designated pick-up area, often located in Car Park A adjacent to the arrival terminal. Pre-booking is advised for a seamless experience. This strategic setup eliminates the need for shuttles and ensures quick access to your rental vehicle, enhancing overall travel convenience.
- Driving in Bristol offers a mix of driving styles. While the overall atmosphere tends to be relatively calm and relaxed, there can be pockets of impatience and occasional aggressiveness, especially during rush hours. Bristolians generally respect traffic rules, although some instances of rule-bending may occur. The city has many bicycles and cyclists are given adequate consideration. While driving car rentals in Bristol, you'll encounter a fair share of trucks, particularly around commercial areas. Pedestrians crossing outside designated areas is not uncommon. Common vehicles include compact cars, SUVs, and public vehicles.
- In Bristol, rush hour traffic occurs from around 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm on weekdays, leading to congestion on major roads like the M32, A38, and A4. Due to heavy traffic and slower speeds, these times can be particularly challenging for driving car rentals in Bristol. Moreover, the winter months, from December to February, can bring difficult driving conditions to Bristol. The city's hilly terrain and potential icy or rainy weather make roads slippery and increase the risk of accidents. Areas like Park Street on a steep incline can become especially treacherous during these months.
- Book your car hire in Bristol at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
FAQs about hiring a car in Bristol
How much is the price of fuel in Bristol?
The average price of fuel in Bristol is R73,53 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between R882 and R1 176, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular car hire in Bristol?
Full-size (Chevrolet Malibu or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Bristol.
How can I find car hires near me in Bristol?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does a Full Size car hire cost in Bristol?
A Full Size car hire in Bristol costs R829 per day, on average.
What type of car is recommended for driving in Bristol?
A compact or mid-sized car is recommended to navigate Bristol's diverse and sometimes congested roads. These cars offer better maneuverability through narrow streets and ease of parking, both crucial in Bristol's city center. Considering a minivan or SUV with ample seating and storage space could be beneficial if traveling in large groups. These vehicles provide comfort and flexibility for group travel, ensuring everyone can ride together comfortably while accommodating luggage and belongings effectively.
What's the speed limit in Bristol?
While navigating car rentals in Bristol, speed limits can vary depending on your driving area. In residential zones, the speed limit is generally 25 mph to ensure safety for pedestrians and residents. The speed limit on main roads and highways ranges from 35 to 55 mph. It's essential to be aware of school zones where the speed limit drops to 15 or 25 mph during school hours. Also, be cautious around the downtown district, as speed limits can be lower there. Be attentive to signage, as occasional speed cameras in certain areas enforce speed limits effectively.
Where are the best places to park in Bristol?
While driving car rentals in Bristol, finding convenient parking can be achieved by utilizing various options. Downtown areas offer both street parking and public parking lots, with costs averaging around $1 to $2 per hour. Some establishments may offer free parking for patrons. When attending events at the Bristol Motor Speedway, event-specific parking lots are available, typically ranging from $10 to $20. It's advisable to arrive early for events to secure a spot. Being mindful of time limits and payment methods is essential.
Bristol car rental reviews and directory
Thrifty
6,2
Okay
13 reviewsOne location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
2525 Highway 75
+1 423 325 6200
Filters
Reviews
10,0 Wonderful
Aug 2018
Pros:
The car ran very well. I had a big trip to take and found my transportation absolutely comfortable and reliable and that was a big help!!Cons:
Unlimited miles is within a region. I traveled outside the "region" and there was an extra $20/day fee. But, I did know this ahead of driving off and made the choice to stay with this car company. It beat the $200 surprise payment I had on my last car rental.8,8 Very Good
Jul 2018
Pros:
I was able to rent a full size sedan for the price of a sub compact.Cons:
The car smelled like smoke and the head liner had chocolate smeared across it in the back seat. The back seat also had white crusty stuff on it.2,0 Poor
Jul 2018
Pros:
I liked that i could cancel both the rental and insurance with no penalty. Be aware that the insurance that is first offered through Kayak partners is not usually through the rental agency itself. Investigate the rental car's coverage and price and compare. Lesson Learned. I walked away.Cons:
I bear some responsibility as i chose the "Our Choice" option. But know that it does appear to be a ploy of getting more money out of you. Here's the rundown of my experience. 1. They first ask you the purpose and mileage of your proposed trip. 2. They then give you the least compatible vehicle for such a trip. 3. Then when you ask for an obviously more suitable vehicle they get into the upcharge/upgrade game. 4. This deal quickly turns into getting an economy car at the intermediate grade price. The Compact car rental price was just $1 more than the "Our Choice" option. So, never again. I'm sure, depending on the scruples of the attendant one might get a good deal, but as i experienced it this is an unethical practice.5,6 Fair
May 2018
Cons:
Thrifty's manager's choice at Tri-City airport was a pickup. They wouldn't even hardly tell me what it was until they handed me the keys. The pickup had been smoked in and they had tried to cover it up with a cleaner that smells worse than the smoke.8,0 Very Good
Nov 2017
Pros:
Received free upgrade. Car was clean. Price was great.Cons:
Waited for 15-20 minutes at pick-up even though there was only one other customer. No one was there for the return at 930 in the morning. Just left the keys in the box.2,0 Poor
Jul 2017
Cons:
I reserved a "Chevy Spark or similar", when I arrived they said the only thing I could get was a very large quad-cab truck or pay an additional $120 to get a different vehicle. A large quad-cab truck would not work for our needs, was forced to stay at the airport for several hours while working out other means of transportation.National
7,8
Good
No reviews available
One location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
2525 Highway 75
+1 423 323 5897
Filters
No reviews available
Dollar
5,8
Fair
No reviews available
One location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
2525 Highway 75
+1 423 325 6200
Filters
No reviews available
Easirent
4,6
Mediocre
No reviews available
One location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
Filters
No reviews available
Budget
No score available yet
One location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
2525 Highway 75
+1 423 323 6304
Filters
Reviews
4,0 Mediocre
Sep 2022
8,0 Very Good
Jul 2020
Pros:
Smooth transactionCons:
Lower prices10,0 Wonderful
Jul 2020
Pros:
Seamless check in service. Free upgrade to a new, spacious vehicle. Very easy, safe modified drop off during COVID.10,0 Wonderful
Mar 2020
Pros:
i NEEDED A CHANGE IN DROP OFF AND BUDGET WAS FLEXIBLE8,0 Very Good
Sep 2019
Cons:
Easy, clean, great price!10,0 Wonderful
Jun 2019
Cons:
Great experience. Would deal with them 100 x over to Enterprise. ThanksEnterprise Rent-A-Car
No score available yet
2 locations in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
1138 W Main St
+1 276 619 4555
2123 Volunteer Pkwy
+1 423 989 6169
Filters
Reviews
8,0 Very Good
Nov 2020
Pros:
Friendly staffCons:
Price2,0 Poor
Jun 2023
Avis
No score available yet
One location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
2525 Highway 75
+1 423 325 6440
Filters
Reviews
2,0 Poor
Jul 2017
Cons:
Smelly on the whole journey. Not as spacious as it discribed.10,0 Wonderful
May 2017
Pros:
Palne landed late and agent worked with me10,0 Wonderful
Apr 2017
Pros:
In and out in no time.6,0 Okay
Sep 2016
Cons:
Was told by the agent, well you rented from a 3rd party not us so that's what you get. Agent was curt when I returned the car. There were no directions on where to park a returned car. Very much left on your own.6,0 Okay
May 2022
10,0 Wonderful
Dec 2021
Eagle Rent A Car
No score available yet
One location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
Filters
No reviews available
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Bristol
Locations in Bristol
Filters
No reviews available
Car hire locations in or near Bristol
Good to know
Most popular car type | Full-size |
|---|