Car Rental at London Gatwick Airport

Welcome to U-Save Car Rental at Gatwick Airport, your premier choice for reliable transportation in the UK. Whether you're touching down for business engagements or embarking on a holiday adventure, our extensive fleet of well-maintained vehicles offers something for every traveler, from sleek sedans to spacious minivans. With competitive rates and exceptional customer service, we ensure a seamless start to your journey. Conveniently located at Gatwick Airport, our efficient rental process allows you to swiftly get behind the wheel and explore the wonders of the UK with ease. From the historic landmarks of London to the picturesque countryside, there's so much to discover at your own pace with U-Save Car Rental. Trust us to elevate your travel experience at Gatwick Airport.

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Tips for renting a car at London Gatwick Airport

Before you rent:

Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.

When you collect your Vehicle:

Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.

Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.

Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.

While you rent:

Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.

When you return your vehicle:

Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.

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Car Hire at London Gatwick Airport – Driving in London

 

Driving in the United Kingdom can be a smooth and rewarding experience — especially for those planning to explore the countryside, coastal towns, or smaller cities not well connected by public transport. If you’re arriving at London Gatwick Airport, renting a car provides an ideal base to explore the South of England, including destinations like Brighton, Oxford, the Cotswolds, or Canterbury.

The most important thing to remember as a driver in the UK is that you must drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat will be on the right-hand side of the vehicle, and roundabouts are navigated clockwise. If you’re used to driving on the right, it might feel unfamiliar at first, but the road infrastructure and signage are generally excellent, and adapting is usually quick for confident drivers.

UK drivers are typically courteous and follow rules closely. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, both in the front and rear seats. Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless using a hands-free system. This law is heavily enforced with roadside cameras and fines.

 

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You’ll find a wide range of roads in the UK — from fast-moving motorways to winding rural lanes. Most major roads are well maintained, but country roads can be narrow, and it’s not uncommon to encounter single-lane tracks with occasional passing places in rural areas. Speed limits are clearly signposted throughout the country and vary depending on the type of road and area. Unless otherwise indicated, the national speed limits in the UK are 70 mph (113 km/h) on motorways and dual carriageways, 60 mph (97 km/h) on single carriageway roads, 30 mph (48 km/h) in built-up areas, and 20 mph (32 km/h) in many residential zones – especially near schools. Pay close attention to signage, as temporary speed limits and average speed cameras are common, especially in construction zones.

Parking in towns and cities can be tricky. You'll encounter a mix of pay-and-display zones, residents-only parking, and red routes, where stopping is prohibited. Always check street signs carefully to avoid fines. When in doubt, opt for official parking garages or lots.

Fuel stations are abundant and typically self-service. Many stations accept card payments at the pump, but it’s advisable to carry a contactless or chip-enabled card.

If you plan to enter Central London, be aware that additional charges may apply: The Congestion Charge Zone requires a payment of £15 per day, Monday through Friday. The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emissions Zone) applies to older or higher-emission vehicles, with a daily charge of £12.50. These areas are monitored by camera, and failure to pay can result in fines. Most our rental cars will be ULEZ compliant, but it’s best to confirm when booking.

If you have any questions or problems during your stay, we are happy to help you! In case of an accident or emergency, the national emergency number is 999.

FAQs About Driving & Renting a Car around London Gatwick Airport

What are the main road connections from Gatwick Airport?

Gatwick is conveniently located next to the M23 motorway, which connects to the M25 (London orbital motorway). From here, you can either drive into Central London via the A23, head south to Brighton, or connect to major routes across southern England.

Are there any tolls or charges when driving from Gatwick to London?

There are no toll roads on the route from Gatwick to London, but if you enter Central London, you may need to pay: The Congestion Charge (£15/day) The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emissions Zone) (£12.50/day for older vehicles) These are automatically detected by cameras — there are no toll booths.

Can I park easily in London if I’m coming from Gatwick?

Parking in Central London is very limited and expensive. There are congestion-free zones, but most central areas use pay-by-phone parking apps, residents-only restrictions, or private garages. It's easier to park at the edge of the city (e.g., Wimbledon, Croydon) and use the Underground or train into the center.

What are good day trips by car from Gatwick?

Renting a car at Gatwick is ideal for exploring: Brighton (seaside town, ~40 min drive), South Downs National Park (countryside drives, hiking), Hever Castle, or Leeds Castle (historic attractions), Seven Sisters Cliffs (scenic white chalk coast). These places are not as easily reached by public transport and offer excellent routes for scenic driving.

How is traffic around Gatwick Airport?

Traffic near Gatwick can be busy during peak flight times, especially on the M23, A23, and airport access roads. Weekday mornings (7–9 AM) and late afternoons (4–6 PM) are the busiest. Allow extra time when returning a car or heading to the terminal.

How long does it take to drive from Gatwick to London?

Driving time to Central London varies from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. During rush hour or roadworks, the journey can take longer — so plan accordingly.

Is driving around suburban London easier than the city center?

Yes. Areas like Croydon, Wimbledon, Kingston, and Richmond are far more accessible by car. These neighborhoods are outside the Congestion Zone and have more straightforward parking options, making them more car-friendly for visitors staying near London but outside the very center.

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