Car hire at London Southend Airport

Unlike public means of transport (bus and train services), which require you to navigate Rochford Road outside the airport building, car rental desks are inside terminal. When you arrive at SEN’s terminal, look for the rental counters next to Costa Coffee. Other rental car offices are directly opposite the information desk.

For a successful process, make sure all the necessary documents are in your name as it appears on your ID. Bring with you a valid driver’s license issued in English or accompany a non-English license with an international driving permit. For instance, you may not need an IDP for the United Kingdom if your DL is US-based but you must present your passport at the rental desk. However, to drive across the channel by ferry or shuttle, you will need an IDP. Similarly, you must have it in days of heightened security checks.

Yes and no. It depends on which rental company you are dealing with. Some agencies require all renters to be 25 years and above while some accept drivers who have attained a least 21 years of age.

For cheaper rates, we recommend the full-to-full fuel policy. This option allows you to pick up a car with a full tank, which you later return with the same level of gas. If not, you may end up paying a different rate than the regular gas price.

Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from London Southend airport to off-airport locations include Europcar, and keddy by Europcar.