Renting a car not only gives you independence from public transport, but it can be a very economic choice if you’re travelling as a group or family. When it’s time to fly home, just return the car at the airport and get on your flight. No need to worry about getting a bus or train which will get you to check-in on time.

When you land at London Stansted Airport, it’s easy to find the car rental desks which are situated between the Arrivals and Departures areas. Among the companies represented are Alamo, Avis, Budget, Europcar, National and Hertz. Naturally, you can rent a car when you arrive, but it’s quite possible that the type of vehicle you want is already booked out or that the rate you had hoped for has gone up. This is where online booking comes in.

There are a myriad of travel services which offer online booking for car rentals, with websites like www.uk-car-hire.net providing quick and easy selection and confirmation. You can see and choose the vehicle model, whether you want manual or automatic, a mini or sedan. You will also get a quote instantly and can book any extra equipment you may need, including roof racks and baby seats. Once you’ve made your selection, you’ll get immediate confirmation and a voucher.

In order to rent a vehicle, you must be 21 years or older, hold a valid driving licence and a credit card. The credit card is needed to block a safety deposit in case of any accidents or damage to the car. The block is then cancelled when you return the car.

When you arrive at the airport, contact the staff at the rental desk and show them your confirmation voucher. They will ask you to confirm your details and give you the keys and detailed directions on how to find the car at the airport. The car will be parked in a parking lot which is easily reached on foot from the terminal or in one of the lots linked by a free shuttle service. Stansted Airport is conveniently located at Junction 8 of the M11, which links to London via the M25 (Junction 27). The trip to central London takes about 60 to 80 minutes.

When you want to return the car, just drop it off at the rental returns office found in the short-stay car park next to Zone G, just a short walk away from Stansted Airport’s main terminal building. Here a company staff member will collect the keys and confirm that the car is in good condition before cancelling the safety deposit block. If you wish, you can return the car at another airport or at a location in the city however this may mean an additional charge.

Travellers also have the convenient option to pre-book Stansted airport lounges as well as car parking at the airport complex. Booking your Stansted airport parking in advance through the internet will save you some money as the parking rates online are discounted. Relaxing in an airport lounge is highly recommendable for every passenger who has to wait long. Avoid uncomfortably hanging around at the airport. You can book your Stansted airport lounge online as well.