Global Suppliers at Southampton
Authorized partnerships with global brands stationed at SOU Airport.
All-Inclusive SOU Protection
Drive out of Southampton Airport with absolute confidence. Every booking automatically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third-Party Liability, and Theft Protection.
We ensure total transparency: the rate you book covers your essential insurance needs and includes 24/7 UK-wide breakdown assistance as standard.
Car Hire Desk Access
All rental providers at Southampton Airport are conveniently located in the dedicated Car Rental Reception centre. It is situated adjacent to the short-stay car park, just a 2-minute walk directly outside the main terminal building—no shuttles required.
For terminal maps and live flight information, we recommend checking the official Southampton Airport website.
What Our Southampton Customers Say
Verified reviews from travelers who rented directly from Southampton Airport.
"Fantastic service at Southampton Airport. The car rental desks were just steps from the terminal exit, and we were on the M27 heading to Portsmouth in no time."
"Very smooth pick-up process. Used the car to drive out to the New Forest for the weekend. The staff were very helpful with driving advice for the National Park!"
"Best prices I found for an SOU rental. The car was ready and waiting with no hard sell at the desk."
"Returning early was a breeze with the drop box, and the walk back to the terminal took just two minutes."
"Absolutely no hidden fees. The price I saw online was exactly what I paid at the Southampton desk."
"The car broke down which was surprising as it was brand new, but I guess nothing is perfect! However, I was very happy with the support. The car change over was very quick and professional. Thank you Sarah for the great customer service."
"Very straightforward access onto the M3 straight out of the airport heading to Winchester. The premium vehicle selection is top-notch."
"Modern fleet and efficient customer support. Got me out of the airport traffic in record time heading into Bournemouth."
Essential Driving Guide out of Southampton Airport
Landing at SOU? Familiarise yourself with these vital rules of the road before exiting the airport in your rental.
Navigating the M27 & M3
Leaving SOU places you directly next to Junction 5 of the M27. This is your main east-west artery, connecting you to Portsmouth or the New Forest. It also seamlessly links to the M3 for a direct route north to Winchester and London.
Manual vs. Automatic
Manual transmission is standard in the UK. If you are planning to navigate the winding country lanes of the New Forest or the busy streets of coastal towns, we strongly recommend filtering for an automatic vehicle when you book for a more relaxing drive.
Clean Air Zones (CAZ)
Southampton operates a Clean Air Zone, but it currently does not apply to private passenger cars—meaning you won't be charged. If you plan to drive into Portsmouth, their CAZ is similarly restricted to commercial vehicles. Our modern SOU fleet is fully Euro 6 compliant.
Ferries to the Isle of Wight
If you plan to take your rental car on a ferry (Red Funnel from Southampton or Wightlink from Portsmouth/Lymington) to the Isle of Wight, you generally can, but you must notify the rental desk at pick-up to ensure your insurance is fully valid for the island.
Driving in the New Forest
The New Forest is famous for its free-roaming ponies, cattle, and donkeys. Animals have right of way! The speed limit across the unfenced forest roads is strictly 40mph, and police frequently use mobile speed cameras to enforce this to protect the livestock.
Returning the Car (Fuel)
If you have a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy, there is a petrol station conveniently located on Wide Lane just a short distance from the airport entrance. Fill up here to avoid expensive refuelling penalty charges at the desk.
Smart Motorways
The M27 and parts of the M3 often act as "Smart Motorways". Speed limits are variable and displayed on overhead gantries to control traffic flow. These are strictly enforced by average speed cameras. All speeds are in Miles Per Hour (mph).
Current UK Fuel Costs
UK fuel is sold by the litre. Prices are currently averaging around £1.45 - £1.65 per litre. We advise choosing a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy to control your own refuelling costs when exploring.
*As this is a volatile and ever-changing item, these prices were last updated on: .
Popular Drives from Southampton Airport
Because SOU is so centrally located on the South Coast, it serves as the ultimate gateway for exploring Hampshire and Dorset. Here are the top scenic drives and spots our customers visit after picking up their rental.
Southampton City Centre
Distance: 4 miles (15 mins via A335)
Head directly south to the major maritime hub and historic city walls.
Child-Friendly? Yes! The SeaCity Museum is fantastic for kids.
Pro Tip: Use the Westquay multi-storey car park for central access to shopping and dining.
New Forest National Park
Distance: 15 miles (20 mins via M27)
Drive west into miles of unspoilt ancient woodland and heathland.
Child-Friendly? Perfect for easy cycling trails and visiting Paultons Park (Peppa Pig World).
Pro Tip: Stick to the 40mph speed limits and watch for the free-roaming ponies on the roads.
Winchester
Distance: 10 miles (20 mins via M3)
Head north to England's ancient capital to see the magnificent Cathedral and King Arthur's Round Table.
Child-Friendly? Great for exploring the Winchester Science Centre.
Pro Tip: Use the Park & Ride services on the outskirts, as the medieval city centre streets are narrow and busy.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Distance: 22 miles (35 mins via M27)
Drive east to explore HMS Victory, the Mary Rose, and the Spinnaker Tower.
Child-Friendly? An absolute must for families. It's a full-day historical adventure.
Pro Tip: There is a large, dedicated visitor car park just a short walk from the Dockyard entrance.
Bournemouth & Jurassic Coast
Distance: 35 miles (45 mins via M27/A31)
Head west towards the beautiful sandy beaches of Dorset and the stunning Jurassic coastline.
Child-Friendly? Excellent for beach days, the Oceanarium, and pier amusements.
Pro Tip: The A31 through the New Forest towards Bournemouth can get very congested on summer weekends.
Stonehenge
Distance: 35 miles (50 mins via A36)
Drive northwest into Wiltshire to see the world's most famous prehistoric stone circle.
Child-Friendly? Kids love the open space and the mystery of the stones.
Pro Tip: You must pre-book your visitor time slot online to guarantee entry.
Isle of Wight
Distance: Varies (via Southampton or Lymington Ferry)
Take the car ferry across the Solent to explore charming coastal towns, Osborne House, and The Needles.
Child-Friendly? Fantastic family destination with beaches, dinosaur museums, and steam railways.
Pro Tip: Book your car ferry tickets well in advance during peak season to secure your preferred sailing times.
Salisbury
Distance: 25 miles (45 mins via A36)
A scenic drive west to the medieval city, home to an incredible Cathedral and the best-preserved Magna Carta.
Child-Friendly? Great for exploring the Cathedral Close and nearby Old Sarum ruins.
Pro Tip: Use one of the five Park & Ride sites located on the outskirts of the city for easy access.