Compare National Car Hire at London Gatwick Airport
Mini Car Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £11 / day
Economy Car Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £13 / day
Compact Car Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £16 / day
Compact Electric Car Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £16 / day
Intermediate Car Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £25 / day
Standard Car Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £35 / day
SUV Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £39 / day
7 Seat Mini Van Gatwick Airport
National Car Rental Gatwick Airport
from £49 / day
National Car Rental at London Gatwick (LGW)
Experience a faster, more convenient car hire service with National Car Rental at Gatwick Airport. Often co-located with Alamo and Enterprise, National is renowned for its business-friendly services, particularly its 'Emerald Club' loyalty program, which allows members to bypass the counter and choose their own car.
Why Choose National at Gatwick
- Emerald Club: Join the free loyalty program to skip the counter, choose your own car from the 'Emerald Aisle', and earn free rental days.
- Speed and Efficiency: Geared towards business travellers and those who value a quick getaway.
- In-Terminal Desks: Easily accessible desks in both North and South Terminal arrivals.
- Quality Fleet: A wide selection of saloons, SUVs, and people carriers suitable for business or family travel.
Finding the National Desk
- South Terminal: After baggage reclaim, follow the signs for 'Car Rental'. The National desk is located in the arrivals hall, shared with Enterprise and Alamo.
- North Terminal: In arrivals, follow the 'Car Rental' signs to the lower level to find the shared National/Enterprise/Alamo desk.
Age & Driver Requirements
- Minimum age: The minimum age to rent from National in the UK is 25.
- Young Drivers: Drivers aged 25-29 may incur a daily surcharge and may be restricted from certain vehicle types.
- Licence: A full, valid driving licence held for at least one year is mandatory.
Insurance & Excess
Your rental includes basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection, but comes with a standard excess (typically £1,000+). You can purchase an optional Damage Waiver (DW) at the counter to reduce this liability, or use a standalone car hire excess insurance policy.
Vehicle Options
National provides a wide range of reliable vehicles, including:
- Economy/Compact: (e.g., Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Focus)
- Standard Saloons: (e.g., Vauxhall Insignia) - A popular choice for business travellers.
- SUVs & People Carriers: (e.g., Nissan Qashqai, VW Sharan)
Book in advance, especially if you are an Emerald Club member, to ensure a smooth pickup.
National Gatwick Car Hire: Quick FAQs
Where is the National desk at Gatwick?
In the arrivals halls of both North and South Terminals, sharing a desk with Enterprise and Alamo.
What is the Emerald Club and does it work at Gatwick?
The Emerald Club is National's free loyalty program for faster rentals. While Gatwick may not offer the full 'Emerald Aisle' (choose any car) experience, being a member will still significantly speed up your check-in at the counter.
What is the excess for National car hire?
The standard excess is typically £1,000-£1,500. You can purchase an optional Damage Waiver (DW) at the counter to reduce this.
What is the minimum age to rent from National at Gatwick?
The minimum age is 25. Drivers aged 25-29 are subject to a young driver surcharge.
What is the fuel policy?
National provides the car with a full tank of fuel. You should return it full to avoid refueling fees.
Can I add an additional driver?
Yes, additional drivers can be added at the rental desk for a daily fee. They must be present and show a valid driving licence.
What documents do I need?
You will need your valid driving licence, a credit card in the main driver's name, and a form of photo ID (like a passport).
Does National offer one-way rentals?
Yes, you can pick up at Gatwick and drop off at other National/Enterprise/Alamo locations. This must be selected during the booking process.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
If you include your flight number in your booking, the National team will monitor your flight and hold the vehicle for you in case of a delay.
Is National part of the same group as Alamo?
Yes, National, Alamo, and Enterprise are all part of Enterprise Holdings and share facilities at Gatwick Airport.
Final Tip: Join the Emerald Club before you book to take advantage of faster service at the counter.