Car rental at Bristol Airport

Car Rental at Bristol Airport (BRS)

Compare deals from 16 rental companies right at the airport. Start your trip the moment you land.

See today's best deals Quick guide (2 min)
LocationAirport
Providers16
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Check 16 companies ⚡ Live prices 🧾 All terms shown upfront ⭐ Cancel for free

Quick answer: At Bristol Airport you can compare rental cars from 16 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready — that's where most people get caught out.
Search rentals Quick guide Key info FAQ Nearby Map

About Renting a Car at Bristol Airport

Bristol Airport offers 16 car rental companies and is one of England's best-equipped airports for car hire. The airport is located 13 km southwest of Bristol city center near the A38 and provides direct access to the M5 motorway toward Somerset and Devon. Pick up your car immediately after landing and start exploring southwest England without any detours.

Bristol Airport (BRS) handles over 9 million passengers annually and features a modern car rental center with all major operators represented. From the airport, you can reach Bristol city center in 25 minutes, Bath in 40 minutes, and Glastonbury in 45 minutes via the A39. Cheddar Gorge, one of England's most impressive natural wonders, is just 25 km to the south.

Book your car in advance during summer season – with 16 rental companies offering good selection, popular car categories can sell out. Drive north on the A38 toward Bristol instead of the motorway if you want to experience the English countryside. Check with your rental company about drop-off options in London if you're planning a one-way trip.

Where do I pick up my rental car at Bristol Airport? The car rental center is located adjacent to the terminal. Most rental companies have desks in the arrivals hall, and vehicles are collected from the dedicated car rental garage.

How long does it take to drive from Bristol Airport to Bath? Bath is located 30 km to the east and takes approximately 35–45 minutes via the A368 or A39 and A4. Avoid rush hour traffic on the A4 approaching Bath.

Can I drive a rental car from Bristol Airport to London? Yes, London is 195 km to the east via the M4 and takes approximately 2–2.5 hours. Check with your rental company about one-way fees and whether the congestion charge applies to your vehicle in London.

We compare prices from all major providers at Bristol Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What to Know Before Picking Up at Bristol Airport

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of United Kingdom. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Bristol Airport

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Alamo
Avis
Dollar
Budget
Hertz
Goldcar
Drivalia
Europcar
Keddy
GreenMotion
Enterprise
SIXT
Routes Car Rental
National
U-Save
Thrifty

Essential Info for Renting at Bristol Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Bristol Airport you can compare rentals from 16 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in United Kingdom ▼

In United Kingdom you drive on the Left side.

  • Urban speed limit: 48 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: 113 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,8 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking is available usually in cities, but can be expensive.

Road tolls: Have koll på signs and be prepared for to pay fees.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Bristol Airport

Which rental companies are available at Bristol Airport?▼
You can compare 16 rental companies at Bristol Airport on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in United Kingdom?▼
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Bristol Airport?▼
The minimum age to rent in United Kingdom is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in United Kingdom?▼
In United Kingdom you drive on the Left side. Speed limits: 48 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 113 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Bristol Airport you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?▼
Most providers at Bristol Airport use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Bristol Airport?▼
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Bristol

Car Rental Guides

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Other Rental Locations Near Bristol Airport

Rent a Car Near Bristol Airport

Other pickup points within driving distance.

10 km
Bristol SouthCity Center · 2 rental companies
12 km
Bristol Temple Meads Train StationCity Center · 4 rental companies
12 km
Bristol CenterCity Center · 3 rental companies
14 km
Bristol Ashley DownCity Center · 1 rental companies
15 km
Bristol St GeorgeCity Center · 1 rental companies
15 km
Bristol NorthCity Center · 1 rental companies

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Real prices, real terms, 16 providers. See what Bristol Airport has to offer.

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Bristol Airport 16 providers
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