Best Car Rental Practices for a UK Getaway

Image: PHOTO: London's Westminster Bridge at sunset. (photo via IakovKalinin/iStock/Getty Images Plus)
Image: PHOTO: London's Westminster Bridge at sunset. (photo via IakovKalinin/iStock/Getty Images Plus)
Eric Bowman
by Eric Bowman
Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Thu April 5, 2018

Transportation when traveling abroad can be tricky.

That's why it's vital to plan ahead. Renting a car allows you to find your own path your own way.

With Enterprise, you can save 10 percent from now through August on a car rental to explore the United Kingdom.

Drive a car style of your choice and see all kinds of natural wonder along the countryside of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. You'll see castles, ruins, rolling hills and coastal routes with stunning views throughout the UK.

There's also the big cities of London, Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast to visit as well on your UK road trip.

When renting a car and driving in a new country it's important to know and follow the rules of the road.

First and foremost, rent a car that is best suited to your needs and one that you know you'll be comfortable in while driving. You'll be driving on the left, which will be weird at first if you're not used to it, so being comfortable is key.

Make sure to specify you'll need an automatic if you don't know how to drive a manual transmission. If you've never driven a stick shift, trying to start in the UK would be less than ideal.

Roundabouts are seemingly everywhere in the UK, so travel clockwise and be sure to exit from the outside lane.

Don't ever turn right on red. Stop for pedestrians. And cars on the right at unmarked crossings have the right of way.

Also, don't use your cell phone while driving.

You're in a new car in a different country and you don't need any distractions. Besides, you'll want to see all your surroundings as you explore the UK and it's many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Another good practice is to fill up the gas tank before you truly need it. You won't find many gas stations in rural UK, so waiting for the gas light to come on could be dangerous. As soon as the tank gets below the half mark, find a way to fill it back up.

Follow the parking signs as well. The last thing you need is for the rental car to be clamped or towed away. This is especially crucial if you plan to visit any of the big cities in the UK. Don't park illegally or it could ruin your travel experience.

Renting a car is a terrific way to save money and experience a new country in a unique way-your way.


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Eric Bowman

Eric Bowman

Editor-in-Chief

Eric Bowman is the Editor-in-Chief of TravelPulse. A graduate of The University of Georgia, Eric has been working in online media, radio and TV for over a decade. He currently lives in Georgia with his wife, daughter, and son. 

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