Small cars
Car Rental at East Midlands Airport (EMA) – Pickup, Prices & Local Driving Tips
Economy cars
SUVs
Vans
Convertibles
Premium cars
Lowest prices for car rental at East Midlands Airport
Choose the right car for your trip in Leicestershire, United Kingdom and book in minutes. Compare trusted rental options, find great daily rates, and secure convenient airport pick-up for your travel dates.
Renault Clio
Compact car
from
€18
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 4
Airport pick-up
No deposit options
Insurance packages available
Good for city driving
Opel Astra
Compact car
from
€21
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 5
Rental office in terminal area
Unlimited mileage offers
Debit card accepted by some suppliers
Popular for regional trips
Volkswagen Up
Small car
from
€16
per day
- Automatic
- 4
- 2
- 4
Easy parking in the city
Low fuel consumption
Fast airport collection
Convenient for short stays
Fiat 500
Mini car
from
€17
per day
- Automatic
- 4
- 1
- 3
Rental office
Small deposit plans
Ideal for couples
Quick return process
Volkswagen Polo
Economy car
from
€20
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 5
Free shuttle service from airport
Balanced price and comfort
Available from major suppliers
Suitable for longer itineraries
Dacia Sandero Stepway
SUV
from
€26
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 5
Better road visibility
Useful for family travel
Comfortable luggage space
Good for mixed city and highway routes
Welcome to East Midlands Airport! Renting a car is a great way to explore Leicestershire and the surrounding area, but knowing about pickup, paperwork, costs, and local traffic rules can help make your trip smoother. In this article, you’ll find all the important information you need for car rental at East Midlands Airport.
Where are the car rental companies located?
Car rental company offices are usually located inside or near the airport terminals. They are often grouped in a central location, and signs on the arrivals level will point you in the right direction. Most rental companies provide a free shuttle between the terminal and the vehicle pickup location if the office is not directly within the terminal.
Which companies operate at East Midlands Airport?
Numerous international and local car rental companies operate at East Midlands Airport. Common players include Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and Budget. It’s worth comparing prices and conditions to find the one that best suits your needs.
Popular cars at East Midlands Airport
A wide range of cars is available for rent at East Midlands Airport. Here are some popular categories:
| Category | Daily price (EUR, approximately) |
| Economy | 25 - 40 |
| Compact | 30 - 50 |
| Mid-size | 40 - 60 |
| SUV | 60 - 100 |
| Luxury | 100+ |
Prices vary seasonally and depending on availability.
Required documents, age limits and payment methods
To rent a car, you generally need: a valid driver's license, identification (passport or ID card), and a credit card to deposit the security deposit. Most rental companies require a minimum age of 21, but higher age limits may apply to certain vehicles (e.g., luxury cars, SUVs). Credit cards are generally accepted as payment methods, and debit cards are accepted less frequently.
Insurance options
Insurance coverage is important when renting a car. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers collision damage, and Theft Protection covers damage from theft or burglary. The Excess (deductible) is the amount you would pay in the event of damage. It is worth asking the rental company what insurance packages they offer and which one suits your needs. Consider purchasing additional insurance (e.g., glass protection, tire protection) as well.
Local driving tips in the United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, you must drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are generally given in miles per hour, but most car rental companies also offer a speedometer in kilometers. Roundabouts are common on highways, and parking may be subject to fees in certain areas. There is no general speed limit on highways, but it may vary depending on traffic. The speed limit in towns is generally 30 mph.
FAQ
Do I need an international driving permit?
If your driver's license is not issued in Latin characters, you will probably need an international driving permit.
What is the deposit (security)?
The deposit is an amount that the rental company retains on your credit card to cover any damage or theft of the vehicle.
How do I return the car?
The car is usually returned to the rental company's office at the specified time.
What to do if I have an accident?
Stop immediately and notify the police. Take pictures of the scene and contact the rental company.
What payment methods are accepted?
Credit cards are generally accepted, but some rental companies also accept debit cards.
Is there a mileage limit?
Most rental companies offer unlimited mileage, but it is worth checking the terms and conditions.
What do I need to know about parking?
Parking may be subject to fees in certain areas. It is worth paying attention to the signs.
How do roundabouts work?
In roundabouts, you must drive on the right side and give way at the entrance.
What is CDW?
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers collision damage.
Do I have to pay a toll?
There is no general toll in the United Kingdom, but you have to pay on certain bridges and tunnels.
How can I rent a GPS?
Most car rental companies offer GPS for rent, but you can also use your own smartphone for navigation.
What to do if I arrive late for pickup?
Notify the rental company immediately so they can try to resolve the situation.