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Explore The Scenic Route From Swansea To Cardiff

Rent a car for a hassle-free one-way journey between Swansea and Cardiff, discovering breathtaking landscapes and landmarks along the way.

Can I rent a car from Swansea to Cardiff?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Swansea to Cardiff. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for GB residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical United Kingdom national photo ID.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX. XpCard is supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 22 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 22 to 25 years incur an additional fee of GBP 66.36 per day (approximately US$ 89.03 per day).
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • EU Driving Licence
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP): Please note that an International Driving Permit(IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
    • UK Driving License(with DVLA check code/DVLA endorsement record): In addition to your licence, either a valid and up-to-date DVLA licence check code or a printed DVLA endorsement record must be provided for all Approved Drivers. These can be obtained from the DVLA website (www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence).
  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX. XpCard and DcCard are supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 22 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 22 to 25 years incur an additional fee of GBP 66.36 per day (approximately US$ 89.03 per day).
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How much does renting a car from Swansea to Cardiff cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 68/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 75/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 162-US$ 222US$ 55-US$ 57US$ 204-US$ 367Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 233US$ 57US$ 381Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 237-US$ 338US$ 57-US$ 66US$ 416-US$ 498Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 180-US$ 351US$ 55-US$ 66US$ 223-US$ 752Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 228-US$ 322US$ 55-US$ 82US$ 288-US$ 605Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way Fees: Be aware of potential additional fees charged for returning the vehicle to a different location.
  • Driving Restrictions: Check if any restrictions apply to one-way rentals, such as rules for crossing borders or traveling between certain regions.
  • Route Planning: Ensure you plan your route and understand any tolls, road closures, or fuel stations along the way.
  • Early Booking: Book early to secure the vehicle type you prefer and obtain better pricing.
  • Fuel Policies: Understand the fuel policy of your rental contract to avoid unexpected charges.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Choose The Right Vehicle: Select a car that suits your trip's needs, considering passenger count and luggage.
  • Compare Offers: Use comparison tools to find competitive pricing and favorable terms for one-way rentals.
  • Understand Insurance Coverage: Familiarize yourself with insurance options and ensure sufficient coverage for your trip.
  • Plan Stops Strategically: Indicate key spots for rest and refueling along your route to enhance your journey experience.
  • Return The Car On Time: Avoid late return penalties by adhering to the agreed schedule.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges from the rental company.

Keep the last receipt as proof of refueling to prevent disputes.

Plan your refueling stops to avoid running out of fuel in less populated areas.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost for this route is approximately £1.50 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to maximize fuel efficiency.

Check tire pressure before starting the trip to ensure it is at optimal levels.

Use air conditioning sparingly to reduce fuel consumption.

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Swansea Parking

City center parking is available at an average cost of £2 per hour.

Look for park-and-ride options to save on parking costs.

Avoid parking in restricted zones to prevent fines.

Cardiff Parking

Central Cardiff offers multi-story car parks at an average rate of £3 per hour.

Free parking is available in certain residential areas outside the city center.

Use parking apps to find and reserve spots conveniently.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia

JustPark

RingGo

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Primary Routes from Swansea to Cardiff:
Coastal Adventure Route
Scenic Drive 1 hour 10 minutes

Drive along the magnificent coastlines, enjoying sea views and peaceful beaches.

Swansea Bay , Mumbles , Barry
Valley Exploration Route
Mountain Drive 1 hour 15 minutes

Navigate through South Wales’s valley regions, encountering serene landscapes.

Neath , Pontypridd , Caerphilly
Direct City Link
Urban Drive 1 hour

Take the quickest route with easy highway access to Cardiff.

Swansea , Bridgend , Cardiff
Essential Road Trip Preps

Car Selection: Opt for a fuel-efficient vehicle when navigating through diverse terrains between Swansea and Cardiff.

Route Awareness: Familiarize yourself with alternative routes for scenic views or quicker travel.

Fuel Up: Locate refueling stations along the route to avoid running low.

Rental Booking: Reserve your vehicle well in advance for better rates and availability.

Landmark Planning: Include stops at key destinations like Mumbles and Cardiff Bay.

Safety Measures: Ensure the rental includes emergency service support and familiarize with protocols.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$★★★★☆★★★★★ Wide range of rental options , Efficient customer service , Strong presence in the UK
Hertz$$$★★★★★★★★★☆ Premium vehicle options , Frequent promotions , Known for convenient locations
Avis$$★★★★☆★★★★☆ Reliable car maintenance , Mobile app for easy booking , Generous loyalty program
Sixt$$$★★★☆☆★★★★★ Luxury car selection , Efficient pick-up/drop-off process , Competitive pricing
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Swansea to Cardiff Car Rental Information Center

Operating Hours:

Most rental counters operate from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday to Sunday.

Rental Center Locations:

Rental centers are located in downtown Swansea and near train stations for customer convenience.

Shuttle Availability:

Free shuttle services are available from central Swansea to rental centers during business hours.

Drop-Off Policies:

Cardiff drop-off location provides 24-hour vehicle return services.

Pro Tips for Grand Theatre Car Rentals

Book your rental vehicle in advance to secure competitive pricing and ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required for a one-way car rental from Swansea to Cardiff?

You will need a valid driver's license, payment method (credit or debit card), and proof of identification, such as a passport or national ID, to complete the rental process.

Are there additional fees for a one-way car rental on this route?

Yes, many rental companies include a one-way fee to cover the logistics of returning the car to its origin or an alternative location. This fee varies depending on the rental provider.

How far is it from Swansea to Cardiff, and how much time does it typically take to drive?

The distance from Swansea to Cardiff is approximately 42 miles (68 kilometers). On average, the drive takes about 1 hour under normal traffic conditions.

What are the popular car rental companies offering one-way rentals on this route?

Several popular car rental companies operate on this route, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. It is recommended to compare their rates and policies for the best deal.

Can I choose the drop-off location in Cardiff?

Yes, most rental companies allow you to select a convenient drop-off point, such as a Cardiff city center office or Cardiff Airport. Always confirm availability directly with the provider.

Ready to Book Your Swansea to Cardiff Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes