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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Harlow
Harlow
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Harlow
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Harlow
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Harlow
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Harlow?
Harlow is a town that offers a blend of urban and rural attractions, making a rental car an ideal choice for exploring the area and beyond. While local transportation is available, a car provides the freedom to discover hidden gems and nearby destinations at your own pace.
Explore Local Attractions. A rental car allows easy access to Harlow’s local attractions such as the Harlow Town Park, Gibberd Garden, and the many public art sculptures scattered throughout the town.
Venture Beyond Harlow. With a car, you can conveniently visit nearby attractions like Hatfield Forest, Audley End House, and the historic city of Cambridge, all within a comfortable driving distance.
Convenience and Flexibility. Public transport can be limiting, especially for families or those with specific schedules. A rental car offers the flexibility to travel on your own terms, without worrying about timetables or routes.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Harlow
Before booking a rental car in Harlow, it’s important to be aware of the standard rental terms and conditions. These typically include age requirements, licensing, insurance, deposits, and various policies to ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
30.55 square kilometres (11.79 square miles)
Population
Approximately 92,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during winter time
Ideal for
Exploring local attractions and nearby towns
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsGenerally, you need to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Harlow. However, some rental companies may have specific age restrictions for certain vehicle types, and young driver surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be necessary. Always carry your passport or ID for verification purposes.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but it's wise to consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) for peace of mind. A security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card until the car is returned in good condition.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy, as some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have daily or total limits. Fuel policies can vary, so clarify whether you need to return the car with a full tank or if a different arrangement applies.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, GPS navigation, child seats, or late returns. Always read the fine print to avoid surprises.
Car Rental Prices in Harlow – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9.50 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand during the summer months.
Low season (November to February): Often see discounted rates and special offers available during the colder months.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Harlow?
Renting a car in Harlow involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs. From comparing prices to understanding the rental terms, here’s a guide to help you through the process.
1. Compare Prices - Start by using car rental comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies in Harlow. This will help you identify the most competitive prices.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, whether it's a compact car for solo travel or a larger vehicle for family trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms and conditions, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies, before making a reservation.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car in advance, especially if you're travelling during peak season, to secure better rates and ensure vehicle availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When collecting your rental car, bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documents as specified by the rental company.
General Information About Harlow
Harlow is a town in Essex, England, known for its extensive green spaces and public art. Navigating Harlow by car is generally straightforward, but understanding local traffic conditions and regulations can enhance your experience.
Harlow, as a new town, was designed with a network of roads to accommodate traffic. However, like any urban area, Harlow experiences rush-hour congestion. Being aware of these conditions can help you plan your routes effectively, particularly if you're renting a car to explore the town and its surroundings. Before setting off, review local traffic laws, fuel station locations, and parking regulations to ensure a smooth and stress-free visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Harlow Town Park
A large park with gardens, woodlands, and a lake, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Gibberd Garden
A unique 20th-century garden with sculptures and architectural features.
The High
Harlow's main shopping area with a variety of shops and restaurants.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking garages are available in the town centre, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available on many streets, but be mindful of time limits and restrictions.
Park & Ride
While Harlow doesn't have a dedicated park-and-ride, consider parking outside the town centre and using local buses to avoid congestion.
Gas Stations in Harlow
Major Brands Available
You'll find BP, Shell, and Esso stations in and around Harlow.
Locations on Main Roads
Most gas stations are conveniently located on major roads, making refuelling easy.
Use Navigation Apps
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations and check prices.
Useful Tips for Visiting Harlow
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM / 4:00–6:00 PM) to minimise traffic delays.
Use Contactless Payment
Contactless payment is widely accepted at parking meters and other facilities.
Be Aware of Cyclists
Harlow has a network of cycle paths, so be mindful of cyclists when driving.
Check Local Events
Check local event listings for road closures or parking restrictions during special events.
Key Transportation Hubs in Harlow
Railway Stations
Harlow Town Station
The main railway station in Harlow, providing regular services to London Liverpool Street and Cambridge.
Harlow Mill Station
A smaller station serving the Harlow Mill area, with connections to London and Cambridge.
Airports
Stansted Airport (STN)
Located approximately 30 kilometres (19 miles) north-east of Harlow, serving various European destinations.
Luton Airport (LTN)
Located about 50 kilometres (31 miles) west of Harlow, catering to both domestic and European flights.
Major Bus Stations
Harlow Bus Station
Located in the town centre, it serves as the primary hub for local and regional bus services.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Harlow?
Renting a car in Harlow is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need
If you're from the UK, your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license for up to 12 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Harlow as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Harlow was surprisingly convenient! Getting a car made seeing friends so easy. A lovely visit.
David Lee
Reviewed: 23.06.2025
Exploring Harlow was effortless; having a car made everything so simple. A wonderful trip!
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 07.05.2025
Loved having a car in Harlow! So easy to get around and explore the surrounding areas. A really pleasant trip.
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 31.10.2024
Harlow was a great base for a relaxing coastal getaway. Car rental made it easy!
Alice Smith
Reviewed: 30.05.2025
Harlow was a pleasant surprise! Getting around with a car was so helpful. Enjoyed my trip immensely.
Olivia Wilson
Reviewed: 20.11.2024
Harlow was perfect for a weekend trip! Having a car made exploring so easy and fun.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 25.09.2024
Meh, kinda bland.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 03.01.2025
Pretty chill, really
Ben Miller
Reviewed: 04.08.2025