How to find a cheap car hire deal in Port Elizabeth
Searching for a cheap rental car in Port Elizabeth? This is where the booking magic happens. With prices averaging Rs10,675 a day, we compare all the best deals so you can choose fast, spend less, and hit the road happy.
Daily rental prices in Port Elizabeth start from just Rs5,732.
Planning an extended stay and want to go further than the usual stops? Rs27,651 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding the best price on a Port Elizabeth car hire. Try booking around two weeks before your departure date.
U-Save, Green Motion and Europcar are some of the best-known providers in the city. They're a smart place to start comparing offers.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Port Elizabeth car hire policy, whether with U-Save or a different supplier. Some may leave it out of the standard package and offer it as an extra.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for finding a deal. Click 'Return car to a different location.' Providers often need to move vehicles between branches, which means you can lock in some fantastic one-way prices on a car for rent in Port Elizabeth.
Save money on fuel by choosing a vehicle that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect the car with a full tank and bring it back full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Explore without limits by booking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you like without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
Coming in first for value is this company, with prices averaging Rs23,792 a day.
Not far behind, this provider offers daily rates of around Rs19,431.
The third option also stacks up well on price. Ride away in one of their rentals for roughly Rs20,153 a day.
If you're still weighing up which wheels are right for you, consider something from the Economy rental category. It's the most commonly booked type of car in Port Elizabeth.
Flying to Port Elizabeth? Think about an airport pick-up
If you're jetting into Port Elizabeth, start exploring sooner by booking a car hire at Port Elizabeth International Airport. The drive from this airport to the city centre is around 6 kilometres and takes about 15 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Port Elizabeth
Small: Whether you're cruising narrow city streets or taking a quick trip, this car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this is the rental that's juuuust right! Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are popular with small families and couples.
Large: Long drives fly by in this Port Elizabeth car hire category. Also known as full-size, they've got the engine power for lengthy trips. The extra space and comfort make them a great choice for groups of friends and families.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and country backroads alike.
Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Port Elizabeth that fits a small crowd (and all their stuff), a van has room where it matters. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group trips, moving or business use.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers what you'd otherwise have to pay if your Port Elizabeth car hire is damaged or stolen. While not compulsory, it can be a real lifesaver if something goes wrong. Keep in mind that insurance policies vary between providers, so make sure you know exactly what's included.
From navigation systems to reverse cameras, the right extras can seriously level up your drive. Think about which extras will suit your needs when you rent a car in Port Elizabeth.
Good to know
Rental age requirements aren't always the same everywhere. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could face extra fees or restrictions. Check what applies with each supplier before booking your rental in South Africa.
Add a car seat to your Port Elizabeth car hire reservation if you're travelling with small kids. Regulations change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size, age and weight is always the safest option.
Come prepared to keep the pick-up process smooth. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (not a screenshot or digital version) plus another photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If extra requirements apply, your booking will list them.
If you've never driven in South Africa, be aware that traffic here sticks to the left side of the road.
Follow the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 55kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways, unless signed otherwise.
In South Africa, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. If you intend to have a couple of drinks, leave the driving to someone else or use public transport instead.
Around 7am is one of the busiest times for traffic in this destination. Try to avoid peak times generally for a smoother trip.
You'll be using the South African rand (ZAR) for everyday expenses on your trip. You may find it helpful to carry a mix of cards and cash to ensure you're covered in all situations.
English is the language used most widely across the country.
Best hotels in Port Elizabeth for drivers
Pull in, drop your bags, and start relaxing at The Hub Boutique Hotel. Offering parking as well as a garden and luggage storage, this hotel is about 5 kilometres from central Port Elizabeth.
City Lodge Hotel Gqeberha is also a smart pick if a few road trips are on your itinerary. It features parking, along with a pool and a laundry. Check in here and you'll be roughly 3 kilometres from the city centre.
Browse through the hotels in Port Elizabeth for even more choices. Use the 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' and 'Valet parking' filters to tailor your results to your trip. You can even use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to limit results to EV-friendly stays.
It's time to start sightseeing now you've locked in a car hire deal in Port Elizabeth and your hotel. From Mount Kilimanjaro to Kariega Game Reserve - Head Office and King's Beach, you're spoiled for choice on things to do here.
