Exeter Car Rental

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From Budget to Luxury: A Pricing Guide for Car Rentals by Model in Exeter

All you need to know about car hire in Exeter

Exeter, a historic city in Devon, England, offers a variety of car hire options to suit your travel needs. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, hiring a car can provide the flexibility and convenience to explore the city and its beautiful surroundings. Here’s everything you need to know about car hire in Exeter.

Why Hire a Car in Exeter?

Hiring a car in Exeter allows you to:

  • Explore at your own pace: Visit attractions like Exeter Cathedral, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, and the Quayside without being tied to public transport schedules.
  • Access remote areas: Discover the stunning landscapes of Dartmoor National Park and the picturesque coastal towns of Devon.
  • Convenience: Enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle, especially if traveling with family or a group.

Where to Hire a Car

Exeter offers several car hire companies, including well-known brands and local providers. You can find car hire services at:

  • Exeter Airport: Ideal for those flying into the city, with several car hire desks available in the arrivals area.
  • City Centre: Numerous car hire offices are located in and around the city centre, providing easy access for those already in Exeter.
  • Online Booking: Many companies offer online booking, allowing you to reserve your vehicle in advance and often at a discounted rate.

Tips for Hiring a Car in Exeter

  • Book in advance: To secure the best rates and ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Check the terms: Understand the rental agreement, including mileage limits, fuel policy, and insurance coverage.
  • Inspect the vehicle: Before driving away, check the car for any existing damage and report it to the rental company to avoid potential charges.
  • Drive safely: Familiarize yourself with UK driving laws and local traffic regulations.

With these tips in mind, hiring a car in Exeter can enhance your visit, providing the freedom to explore this charming city and its scenic surroundings at your leisure.

All you need to know about car hire in Exeter

Electric Car Rental Choices in Exeter

Average daily rates for renting an electric car in Exeter

Exeter offers a variety of electric car rental options, catering to both eco-conscious travelers and those looking to experience the latest in automotive technology. Here are some popular electric car models available for rent in the area, along with their average daily rental rates:

  • Tesla Model 3: The Tesla Model 3 is a favorite among electric car enthusiasts, known for its impressive range and advanced features. The average daily rental rate for a Tesla Model 3 in Exeter is approximately £90.
  • Nissan Leaf: The Nissan Leaf is a practical and reliable choice for those looking to explore Exeter and its surroundings. It offers a comfortable ride and a decent range. The average daily rental rate for a Nissan Leaf is around £60.
  • BMW i3: The BMW i3 combines luxury with sustainability, making it a popular choice for those who want to travel in style. The average daily rental rate for a BMW i3 is about £75.
  • Renault Zoe: The Renault Zoe is a compact and efficient electric car, perfect for city driving. The average daily rental rate for a Renault Zoe is approximately £50.

These rates provide a general idea of what to expect when renting an electric car in Exeter. Prices may vary based on the rental company, duration of the rental, and additional services or insurance options selected.

Average daily rates for renting an electric car in Exeter

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One way car rental options in Exeter

One way car rental options in Exeter provide flexibility for travelers who need to return their vehicle in a different city. This service is particularly useful for those planning road trips or business travels that do not loop back to the starting point. Several car rental companies in Exeter offer this service, including well-known brands like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise.

Prices for one way rentals can vary depending on the distance and the drop-off location. For example, renting a compact car in Exeter and returning it in Bristol might cost around €50-€70 extra. If you plan to drop off the car in London, the additional fee could range from €100-€150. These rates are indicative and can fluctuate based on the season, car availability, and specific rental company policies.

It is advisable to book in advance and confirm the one way rental fees to avoid any surprises. This way, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey across the UK.

One way car rental options in Exeter

Analyzing Monthly Variations in Car Rental Prices

Thrifty Travel: Practical Tips for Saving on Car Rentals in Exeter

1. Book in advance

Booking your car rental well in advance is a simple yet highly effective strategy for saving money. This becomes even more crucial in tourist hotspots, where the demand for rental cars often surges during peak travel seasons. Reserving early allows you to secure a more economical rate and guarantees the availability of your preferred vehicle type.


The Benefits of Early Reservations

In Exeter, several car rental agencies provide "early-bird" discounts to those who reserve their vehicles weeks or even months before their intended rental period. These special rates can result in substantial savings, sometimes reducing the cost by 20% to 30% compared to standard pricing. Early booking becomes exceptionally advantageous if you're traveling during high-demand seasons when prices are prone to inflate.


The Value of Being Flexible

Planning ahead not only saves you money but also offers the leeway to explore and compare rates among various providers. If you have flexible travel dates, you can align them with times when prices are more affordable, maximizing your savings even further.


R-TG.com: Your Ultimate Destination for Car Rental Deals

To find the most competitive rates, we recommend using our website, r-tg.com. The platform consolidates pricing information from multiple suppliers, offering you a comprehensive source for comparison. Our site often highlights exclusive early-bird discounts and other promotional deals you won't easily find elsewhere, making it a valuable tool for securing the most cost-effective car rental in Exeter.

2. Compare Various Suppliers

One of the most effective ways to save money on car rentals is to shop around and compare rates from multiple suppliers in Exeter. Not all rental agencies are created equal, and prices can vary significantly even for the same class of vehicle.

Why Comparison Matters

Suppose you're interested in renting a compact car, such as a VW Polo. Your first instinct might be to go with well-known suppliers like sixt or budget, but it's crucial to also consider lesser-known local agencies. These local suppliers might offer competitive rates to entice customers away from the bigger names.


Price Examples

For instance, a VW Polo at sixt in Exeter might cost you €24 per day, including basic insurance. On the other hand, budget might offer the same model for €74 per day but with limited mileage. Upon further research, you might find a local agency offering the VW Polo for just €17 per day with unlimited mileage.


By taking the time to compare rates from multiple suppliers, you can find the best deal that meets your specific needs. Whether you prioritize lower daily rates, better insurance coverage, or additional perks like free GPS, comparing suppliers can help you make the most budget-friendly choice.

3. Utilize Discount Codes

Leveraging discount codes can significantly reduce your car rental costs in Exeter. This allows you to upgrade your car, extend the rental period, or simply save money. This isn't just a trick for deal-seekers; it's a common practice in the industry.


Discount Categories

Various discounts are often available, from AAA membership perks to military family rates and even credit card-based offers. It pays to find out which ones you qualify for.


Where to Look

Discount codes are available through:

  1. Rental websites
  2. Travel deal sites
  3. Membership organizations
  4. Email lists
  5. Social media


Caveats

Read the fine print, as codes often come with conditions like blackout dates or restricted car types.

4. Decline the Prepaid Fuel Option

While prepaid fuel offers convenience, it usually costs more. Self-refueling tends to be more economical.


Understanding Prepaid Fuel

Prepaid fuel involves paying for a full tank at the rental agency's rate, which is often higher than local gas prices. Additionally, you won't receive a refund for unused gas.


Smart Refueling

Use apps to find nearby gas stations and compare prices to save on fuel.


Evaluate Your Driving

Minimal driving makes prepaid fuel less cost-effective, as you might return the car with a mostly full tank.


Time vs. Savings

Avoiding prepaid fuel can save money but requires some planning. Consider whether the savings are worth your time.

In summary, prepaid fuel is convenient but often pricier. A bit of planning can lead to better deals.

5. Choose Economy Cars

Choosing an economy car over a larger, luxury vehicle can lead to substantial savings, not just in rental costs but also in terms of fuel efficiency. This is especially important in places with high gas prices or for longer trips where fuel costs can add up quickly.


Why Economy Cars Make Sense

Economy cars generally offer the lowest per-day rental rates and boast excellent fuel efficiency, meaning you'll spend less on gas during your trip. These smaller vehicles are also easier to maneuver and park, particularly in crowded urban settings or on narrow roads.


Going Electric for More Savings

In addition to traditional economy cars, consider opting for an electric car in Exeter. While the per-day rental rate for an electric car may be slightly higher, the money you'll save on fuel can more than compensate for this. Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly common as rental options, and they offer the added benefit of reducing your carbon footprint.


Electric Car Price Example

An electric model like the Renault Zoe might cost €37 per day to rent but could save you the entire fuel cost, especially if your lodging offers free electric vehicle charging or if you can find free public charging stations.


Additional Perks of Electric Cars

Driving an electric car can also grant you access to carpool lanes in some cities, even if you're the only person in the vehicle. This can save you time during your trip, which is another form of savings altogether.


By choosing an economy car in Exeter, and even better, an electric one, you're opting for a rental option that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Always compare the total costs—rental rate plus estimated fuel costs—to determine the best option for your trip.

6. Look for Package Deals

Many travel websites provide package deals that encompass flights, hotels, and car rentals. By combining these services, you can frequently secure substantial savings.

7. Reserve the Smallest Car and Upgrade Later

Booking the smallest and least expensive car available might seem counterintuitive, especially if you desire a larger or more luxurious vehicle. However, this can be a clever way to save money and potentially enjoy a free upgrade.


How It Works

Car rental agencies typically have a limited inventory of small, economy cars since these are the most popular and frequently booked options. If you book the smallest car and the agency runs out of that class when you arrive, they are usually obligated to give you a free upgrade to the next available class. This means you could end up with a midsize car, or even a sedan, for the price of an economy car.


The Gamble Involved

It's important to note that this strategy is not a guarantee. You might arrive and find that small cars are indeed available. In that case, you'll get what you paid for, which is still a cost-effective option. However, the potential upside makes this a gamble worth considering for the budget-conscious traveler.


Best Practices for This Strategy

  1. Time Your Booking: This approach often works best during busy travel times when rental agencies are likely to run low on their most affordable options.
  2. Early Check-In: Try to check in as early as possible to improve your chances of getting an upgrade, as the most affordable cars are usually the first to go.
  3. Inquire Politely: When you arrive, it doesn't hurt to politely inquire about the possibility of an upgrade. Sometimes staff have the discretion to offer upgrades for a minimal additional fee, or even for free.
  4. Loyalty Programs: Being a member of the rental agency's loyalty program can also improve your chances of receiving an upgrade.
  5. Check for Specials: Sometimes agencies offer upgrade specials that are only a few dollars more per day than the economy car rate. If you're offered such a deal at the counter, it might be worth taking.


8. Verify Your Auto Insurance

Before purchasing the insurance package from the car rental company, it's advisable to consult your own auto insurance policy first. Determine whether it already covers rental vehicles. If it does, you can safely skip the additional insurance charge from the rental company, potentially saving yourself some money.

9. Monitor Seasonal Promotions

Car rental agencies in Exeter often offer special promotional rates and discounts, especially during holiday periods or low-demand seasons. To stay updated on these limited-time promotions, consider subscribing to their newsletters or regularly checking their websites. You can also follow them on social media platforms where they may announce exclusive deals.


Incorporating these strategies into your travel planning can significantly improve your chances of securing a great deal on your car rental. Being an informed and savvy consumer in this vibrant city can make a substantial difference in managing your travel budget effectively.

10. Be Aware of Mileage Limits

Don't overlook mileage limits in Exeter car rentals; they can lead to unexpected fees.


Types of Mileage Plans

Rental firms offer unlimited, daily, or total trip mileage plans. Choose wisely to avoid extra costs.


Overage Charges

Exceeding the limit can cost between $0.25 and $0.75 per extra km.


Be Proactive

Inquire about mileage policies when you pick up the car and negotiate better terms if possible.

Being savvy about mileage can keep your travel budget on track.

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