Can You Drive a UK Rental Car into France?
Yes – many car hire companies in the UK allow cross-border travel into France. However, not all rental agents permit it, and some vehicle types may be restricted. Before booking, always check the terms and conditions for your chosen rental agent. If you’re not sure, contact Rhino Car Hire and we’ll confirm it for you.
When travelling abroad, you’ll need to let the rental company know in advance. This allows them to prepare the correct insurance and breakdown cover for driving in France and beyond. Without this, you could find yourself unprotected if something goes wrong.
Driving Beyond France – Other European Countries
Most UK car hire agents will also allow travel to neighbouring European countries such as:
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Spain
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Portugal
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Ireland
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Germany
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Switzerland
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Italy
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Netherlands
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Belgium
That said, there are usually limits on the number of border crossings (often up to 2). Rental companies group countries into "zones", and certain vehicles (like premium or luxury cars) may be restricted in some zones. Always double-check before you travel.
Can You Take a Hire Car on the Eurotunnel?
Yes – you can usually take a hire car on the Eurotunnel in the same way you would on a ferry, provided your rental company permits cross-border travel.
A few key things to remember:
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You’ll need the car registration number when booking your Eurotunnel ticket. As this isn’t confirmed until you collect your rental car, you may need to wait before booking or update your booking later.
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Eurotunnel may also require the make and model of the car. Again, this is only confirmed when you pick up your rental.
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Rhino Car Hire operates on a "car hire or similar" basis, which means we guarantee the vehicle category, not the exact make and model.
Which UK Car Hire Companies Allow Travel to Europe?
Not every car hire company has the same rules. Some allow travel into all EU countries, while others restrict travel to certain zones or require additional fees. To make life easier, Rhino Car Hire checks the cross-border travel policies of all major UK rental agents. You can view these in the terms and conditions when booking, or simply ask our team to confirm.
Top Tips for Hiring a Car in the UK for European Travel
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Book early – especially in peak travel seasons.
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Check border restrictions – know exactly which countries you can and can’t enter.
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Budget for extras – cross-border fees, additional insurance, and breakdown cover are often required.
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Keep documents with you – passport, driving licence, rental agreement, and insurance paperwork.
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Plan your return time – rentals are based on 24-hour periods, so matching your pick-up and drop-off time can save money.
UK Car Hire Companies and Cross-Border Travel Rules
Here’s a quick comparison of leading UK rental agents and their policies for driving into Europe:
| Rental Company |
Cross-Border to France/Europe? |
Extra Fees/Conditions |
Notes |
| Avis |
Yes, into most EU countries |
Cross-border fee applies, varies by country |
Luxury/premium cars may be restricted |
| Europcar |
Yes, into EU countries |
Additional insurance required |
Breakdown cover included in fee |
| Hertz |
Yes, into most EU countries |
Cross-border surcharge may apply |
Some vans/large vehicles excluded |
| Enterprise |
Yes, but must be declared in advance |
Extra insurance & breakdown cover required |
Not all branches allow cross-border |
| Sixt |
Yes, into EU and selected countries |
Cross-border fee + written permission required |
Certain vehicle groups restricted |
| Budget |
Yes, into France and Europe |
Daily cross-border fee applies |
Check for zone restrictions |
| Thrifty/Dollar |
Yes, with prior notice |
Fees and country limits apply |
Often limited to 2 border crossings |
💡 Tip: Always confirm your destination countries at the time of booking with Rhino Car Hire so we can ensure your rental is properly insured and permitted.
Top Tips for Hiring a Car in the UK for European Travel
-
Book early – especially in peak travel seasons.
-
Check border restrictions – know exactly which countries you can and can’t enter.
-
Budget for extras – cross-border fees, additional insurance, and breakdown cover are often required.
-
Keep documents with you – passport, driving licence, rental agreement, and insurance paperwork.
-
Plan your return time – rentals are based on 24-hour periods, so matching your pick-up and drop-off time can save money.
Final Word
Hiring a car in the UK and driving into France – whether by ferry or Eurotunnel – is a fantastic way to explore Europe at your own pace. With Rhino Car Hire, you can compare prices from the world’s leading rental suppliers and ensure you’re fully covered for cross-border travel.
Start your journey today with cheap UK car hire to Europe and enjoy the freedom of the open road.