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Cheap Car Hire Durban International Airport

Cheap Car Hire Durban International Airport
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Debit Card Accepted
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Cheaper to Buy
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Hassle-free Experience
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Zero Excess

Welcome to Durban International Airport!

Planning a visit to Durban? This coastal gem of South Africa is the perfect destination for beach lovers, foodies, and adventurers alike. With its golden beaches, year-round warm climate, and a rich blend of cultures, Durban offers a vibrant and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re here to relax on the famous Golden Mile or explore the lush valleys surrounding the city, there’s something for everyone in this lively coastal city. Why not take advantage of your time in Durban and explore at your own pace by renting a car? After touching down at Durban International Airport—formally known as King Shaka International Airport (DUR)—you can pick up your hire car and hit the road. Renting a car offers the freedom to explore not only Durban’s famous attractions but also to venture further afield to the nation’s other exciting destinations like South Africa’s buzzing cultural centre Johannesburg and Cape Town. Ready to discover more? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about car hire at Durban International Airport.


King Shaka International (DUR) offers a range of services for travellers, including car rental desks, coffee shops, and information desks to help you get started on your journey as smoothly as possible. With your hire cart, central Durban and beyond are yours to explore. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive along the coast, a trip to the Zulu cultural heartland, or a cross-country adventure to Johannesburg or Cape Town, having a car gives you the ultimate freedom to discover South Africa’s diverse landscapes and cities at your own pace.

You’ll find a variety of car hire options suited to all kinds of travellers. For those planning to stick around Durban’s city centre, a compact car is ideal for navigating the streets and finding parking at popular spots like Shaka Marine World or Moses Mabhida Stadium. It’s perfect for cruising along the beachfront or exploring the trendy restaurants and bars in the city.If you plan to take in more of KwaZulu-Natal’s stunning scenery, such as the breathtaking Valley of a Thousand Hills or the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, an SUV or larger sedan is a great choice for extra comfort on longer drives. And for the true adventurer, why not consider a road trip to Johannesburg or Cape Town with the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain dominating the view? South Africa’s road network is extensive and well-maintained, making cross-country drives not only possible but incredibly rewarding - imagine seeing all that South Africa has to offer!


Driving in Durban


In South Africa, driving is on the left side of the road. If you’re coming from a right-hand driving country, give yourself a bit of time to adjust when picking up your rental at King Shaka International. Durban is known for its relaxed atmosphere, and that extends to the roads. However, like any major city, you’ll want to avoid rush hour traffic, particularly on the busy N2 and M4 highways. Parking is relatively easy to find, especially around the city’s main attractions. Many areas offer paid parking, and you’ll often find helpful parking attendants who can assist for a small tip. King Shaka International Airport itself is well-connected to the city via these major highways, offering quick and easy access to Durban’s hotspots as well as routes out of the city for longer road trips to, say, Pretoria with its Jacaranda trees and pretty buildings.

To secure the hire car best rates and ensure availability, especially during busy periods like school holidays or major events, booking ahead is a smart move. The same applies if you’re hiring a car at either Johannesburg International Airport in South Africa’s largest city or from the rental zone at Cape Town International Airport. Be sure to understand the fuel policy (whether you need to return the car with a full tank), mileage limits, and any additional fees like GPS rental or insurance. Before driving off, give the car a thorough check for any existing damage - take photos and ensure that everything is noted in the rental agreement to avoid issues when returning the vehicle. Durban is well-connected by toll roads, especially if you plan to drive towards Johannesburg or Cape Town. Check whether your rental includes an electronic toll tag or if you’ll need to pay tolls in cash.


Durban International Airport (DUR)

Number of terminals: 1 main terminal (domestic & international)

Location of car rental desks: Arrivals area

Distance to fuel station: Approximately 2 miles

Nearest city: Durban, South Africa

Major roads: N2, N3, and R102


Our Protection Levels for you
Basic protection
Basic
Market Standard
Basic coverage with standard experience
Coverage LevelLow
Credit Card DeductibleVery High
Additional Journey30+ mins
ExperienceExpect upsell & hassle
Credit Card NeededALWAYS
Plus protection
Plus
Exclusive to ReservAway!
Lower Deductible with an improved experience
Coverage LevelLow
Credit Card DeductibleMedium - High
Additional Journey30+ mins
ExperienceExpect upsell & hassle
Credit Card NeededALWAYS
Best protection
Best
Exclusive to ReservAway!
Zero Deductible with the best experience
Coverage LevelFull
Credit Card DeductibleZero
Additional JourneyZero
ExperiencePremium & Smooth
Credit Card NeededUsually NOT
Want to understand your options better?

Protection Comparison

Hassle-Free Desk*
Credit Card Deductible
Cover Level
How to Claim
Protection Provider
Market Standard
ReservAway Exclusives
Basic protection
Basic
Plus protection
Plus
Standard protection
Standard
Best protection
Best
High
High
Low
None
Basic
Full
Partial
Full
N/A
Reimburse
N/A
N/A
Direct
3rd Party
Direct
Direct

*Hassle-Free Desk: The dreaded moment when the rental company hits you with upsells, extra inspections, or credit card dramas—turning what should be a quick pick-up into a drawn-out negotiation.


Third-Party Protection: What you need to know
Some companies might call it 'Full Protection' or 'Premium Protection', but we're here to tell you the facts.
Third-party protection does cover you fully against damage costs, just like our best product. However, the rental desk experience? That's still going to be the same as if you'd picked the basic option.
What is Third-Party Protection?It's an independent coverage that protects you from damage costs the rental company could charge. It works well but doesn't change how things go down at the rental desk.If you're interested in third-party protection, Rental Cover is our preferred partner. You can learn more or purchase coverage directly by visiting their website.
What is expected at the Rental Desk:Even with third-party protection, you'll still face the usual desk drama—deposits, credit card holds, and those upsell attempts. While you're financially protected, the hassle at the desk doesn't go away.We believe in keeping things clear: while third-party protection covers you well, the customer experience remains basic.
The Role of the Car Rental Company:Rental companies insure their cars, and they need you to either buy their protection or leave a deposit. Third-party protection takes care of the financial risks, but the rental company still holds the cards at pick-up.Want to avoid the hassle entirely? Read more about our Best Protection, which keeps both your wallet and your rental process smooth.

Why book with us?

If you're still unsure, see more reasons to book with ushere..
Shield check iconNo hidden fees. Ever.
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Tailoring Your Rental Experience
Understanding Your Needs
At ReservAway.com, we understand that every traveler is unique, and that is why we are dedicated to meeting your specific needs and preferences. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a business trip, or a weekend getaway, we are here to ensure that your car rental experience is tailored to suit you.
Tailored Recommendations
Our user-friendly platform allows you to input your travel dates, locations, and preferences, so we can provide personalized recommendations that match your requirements. Whether you prioritize price, convenience, or specific vehicle features, we'll help you find the perfect rental option.
Expert Guidance
Not sure where to start? Our team of car rental experts is here to assist you every step of the way. From selecting the right vehicle to understanding insurance options and navigating potential fees, we'll provide expert guidance to ensure that your rental experience is smooth and hassle-free.
Empowering Your Travel Experience
At ReservAway.com, we are dedicated to empowering you to make informed decisions and ensuring a seamless travel experience. With transparent pricing, comprehensive information, dedicated customer support, and by exclusively presenting options available directly at the rental car company's desk, we are here to assist you in maximizing your journey.
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Key Information to Help You Decide

Not sure where to start? Let us guide you through the car rental process, from start to finish:

Once you've searched for your dates and locations, consider these critical factors when selecting a car rental company:


Your Needs: Tailor your search to match your specific requirements for the journey. Use filters to narrow down options and ensure that the rental meets your exact needs.
Price: Compare prices from multiple suppliers to find the best deal that fits your budget. Our platform allows you to easily compare rates and choose the most cost-effective option for your trip.
Customer Scores: Check customer reviews and ratings to understand satisfaction with your chosen provider. Hearing from fellow travelers can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and overall experience.
Convenience: Evaluate the pickup and drop-off locations to ensure ease and accessibility during your trip. Choose locations that are convenient for your itinerary and minimize travel time to and from rental sites.

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What Do You Need to Pick Up the Car
To pick up your rental car, you'll need the following:
Car license icon
Driving license
A valid driving license in the name of the main driver.
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Identification
A passport or other form of identification.
Credit card icon
Credit card
A credit card in most cases is required in the name of the main driver with sufficient funds.
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Voucher
A printed Voucher or an e-Voucher, where available.

More Information Made Simple

Wondering about extras like additional drivers, one-way fees, reduced security deposits, or cross-border fees? we have got you covered. Our straightforward explanations and easy-to-use filters make renting a car a breeze.
Confused? Still have questions? Our friendly car hire advisors are here to assist you every step of the way. Get in touch, and we'll ensure everything is crystal clear for your rental experience. You can also click below to read more detailed explanations.

Questions?

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