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24/7 SupportRent a Car at Belfast Airport - Compare Prices
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Finding a car rental at Belfast International Airport (BFS) is easy with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of suppliers across the UK with no booking fees. Pick up from on-airport desks in the arrivals hall and be in Belfast city centre in around 30 to 40 minutes via the M2. Planning to drive to the Republic of Ireland? Filter for cross-border car hire to see any fees and requirements upfront.
Car Rental Locations & Options
Key Rental Locations and Options
Belfast International Airport has five major car hire companies on-site, making it convenient to pick up a vehicle immediately upon arrival.
| Location/Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| On-airport (Arrivals Hall: Enterprise/National/Alamo, Budget, Europcar, Avis, Hertz) | Immediate pickup after landing; no shuttle required; all major brands in one place; pickup and return times match flight schedules | Airport location surcharges often make rates higher; queues can form when several flights arrive at once; limited availability during peak periods if booked late |
| Belfast city centre locations (alternative to airport pickup) | Often lower rates due to fewer airport fees; convenient if you’re spending initial days in the city | Requires transport from the airport to the city; less convenient if you want to start driving immediately; navigating city traffic and parking adds time |
Car Rental Prices
Low-cost rental tips
- Compare brands, car sizes and pickup days. Monday is busiest at BFS, so check prices for Sunday or mid-week pickups too.
- Lock in early for peak times. For summer and bank holidays, booking about 4–6 weeks ahead usually beats last-minute rates.
- Choose the smallest car that fits. Economy/compact options are typically 30–50% cheaper than SUVs.
- Test different trip lengths. Weekly deals can undercut daily pricing, and 3-day rentals often price better per day than 1–2 days.
- Plan fuel smartly. Full-to-full is standard. Refill at the petrol station on Airport Road, about 5 minutes from BFS, to avoid higher refuelling charges.
- Going to the Republic of Ireland? Add the cross-border fee (around £23) into your comparison so there are no surprises.
Car hire prices at Belfast International Airport 2025/2026
Driving Tips
Airport Parking for Rental Returns
- Clearly marked rental return area in the main car park
- Short-term grace period (10-15 minutes) usually allowed for drop-offs
- For after-hours returns, park in the designated rental return area and leave keys as instructed
Driving from the Airport
- Drive on the left side of the road
- When exiting the airport, follow signs to Belfast or other destinations
- Speed limits in the airport vicinity: 30-40 mph (48-64 km/h)
- The M2 motorway has a 70 mph (112 km/h) limit
- Allow enough time to get familiar before joining main roads
Local Regulations to Note
- Speed limits are in miles per hour
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants
- Mobile phone use whilst driving is prohibited without hands-free equipment
- The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, but it's best not to drink at all if driving
Why rent a car in Belfast International Airport (BFS)
Book a rental car so you can easily:
- Belfast City Centre – Titanic Belfast, City Hall, Cave Hill Country Park
- Causeway Coast – Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
- Lough Neagh – Antrim Castle Gardens, Lough Shore Park, Randalstown Forest
- Mourne Mountains – Newcastle, Tollymore Forest Park, Silent Valley
- Derry/Londonderry
- Dublin
FAQs
How long will it take me to pick up my rental car at Belfast International Airport?
At normal times, it takes about 15-20 minutes. When it's busy (like on summer weekends and holidays), it can take 30-45 minutes.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Most companies check your flight's arrival time and will keep your car for you if you're late. You should always give them your flight number when you book.
Can I drive to the Republic of Ireland in a car I hired at Belfast International Airport?
Yes, but you need to tell the rental company first. They usually charge a cross-border fee of £20–40 for the trip to cover extra insurance. Make sure you understand the rules for driving into the Republic of Ireland before you go.
What is the usual fuel rule for hire cars at Belfast International Airport?
The 'full-to-full' rule is the most common one. This means they give you the car on a full tank and you have to return it full. If you don't, they will charge you a lot for refuelling.
Are there any toll roads near Belfast International Airport?
No, Northern Ireland has no toll roads. If you're travelling to the Republic of Ireland, you might have to pay tolls on some roads, especially the M50 around Dublin.
