Top 10 Best Car Rental Companies in West Devon

Introduction to Car Rental Companies in West Devon

While the Dartmoor Line and local bus routes have improved access, many of West Devon's most beautiful places, from remote tors to riverside villages, are best reached by car. Visitors arriving by train or plane often rent vehicles in Plymouth, Exeter or at Exeter Airport, while residents use rental services for vans, moving house or replacing a vehicle during repairs.

These ten car rental companies are popular choices for people travelling in and around West Devon.

How We Selected the Best Car Rental Companies

This list considers reputation within the local community, quality and range of services, professional standards, customer feedback, accessibility for residents across Tavistock, Okehampton and the surrounding villages, and each provider's understanding of West Devon's rural character. The entries are presented in no strict order of merit, as the best choice will always depend on your individual needs.

1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car

With branches in Plymouth and Exeter, Enterprise is known for excellent customer service and its pick-up service. Its range includes economy cars, SUVs and vans, making it a versatile choice.

2. Hertz

Hertz operates from Exeter Airport and other regional locations, offering a wide fleet and loyalty benefits. It is convenient for travellers flying into the region.

3. Avis

Avis provides reliable car rental from regional airports and stations, with options for premium vehicles and flexible one-way hire.

4. Europcar

Europcar offers competitive rates and a range of cars and vans, with branches in Plymouth and Exeter serving West Devon travellers.

5. Sixt

Known for premium vehicles at competitive prices, Sixt is a good option for travellers seeking a more luxurious drive through the moors.

6. Budget

Budget offers value-focused car hire with straightforward pricing, ideal for travellers looking to keep costs down.

7. Thrifty

Thrifty provides affordable car and van rental with locations in the South West, popular with residents needing short-term hire.

8. Practical Car and Van Rental

This network of franchised rental outlets offers cars and vans at local garages, often providing personal service and flexibility.

9. Local Garages and Van Hire in Tavistock and Okehampton

Several local garages offer courtesy cars and van hire, ideal for residents moving house or transporting goods without travelling to larger towns.

10. Electric Car Hire Specialists

As charging infrastructure expands across Devon, specialist providers offer electric vehicle rentals, allowing visitors to explore the moor sustainably.

Tips for Renting a Car in West Devon

Choose a vehicle suited to narrow country lanes and steep hills. Check insurance excess, mileage limits and fuel policies, and inspect the car for damage before driving away. Be aware of livestock and ponies on unfenced moorland roads, especially at dusk. If you plan to rent an electric vehicle, plan charging stops in advance.

Car Rental Trends

Electric and hybrid rentals are growing as charging networks expand. Digital check-in and contactless key collection are becoming common. Car clubs and short-term rentals are increasingly popular with residents who do not need a car every day.

Collecting a Car After Train Travel

Many visitors arrive in West Devon by train, either at Okehampton via the Dartmoor Line or at Plymouth on the main line from London. Rental companies with branches near Plymouth and Exeter stations make it easy to collect a car on arrival, and some offer delivery and collection services to save time. Booking in advance guarantees availability, particularly during summer. Combining rail travel with car hire reduces the stress of long motorway drives and allows visitors to enjoy the scenic journey along the Devon coast. It also gives the freedom to explore remote areas of the moor.

Driving on Dartmoor

Driving on Dartmoor is a memorable experience, but it requires care. Many roads are narrow, winding and unfenced, with ponies, sheep and cattle roaming freely. Speed limits on moorland roads are often forty miles per hour, and drivers should slow down further when animals are near. Fog can descend quickly, reducing visibility. Passing places on single-track lanes should be used courteously. Parking is available at designated car parks near popular tors and walking routes, and visitors should avoid parking on verges, which damages the landscape. Respecting these guidelines keeps everyone safe and protects the national park.

Van Hire and Specialist Vehicles

Residents often need vans for moving house, transporting furniture or business purposes. Several rental companies offer vans from small panel models to Luton vans with tail lifts. Minibuses are available for group trips, weddings and events, while four-wheel-drive vehicles suit rural properties with challenging access. When hiring a van, check payload limits, licence requirements and insurance cover, especially for larger vehicles. Some local garages offer competitive rates for short-term hire, making them a convenient alternative to larger national chains for residents of Tavistock, Okehampton and surrounding villages.

Saving Money on Car Hire

Compare prices across several providers and book early, as rates rise during busy periods. Consider whether excess insurance from a standalone provider is cheaper than the rental company's own cover. Avoid unnecessary extras and check fuel policies, as full-to-full options are usually the most economical. Weekly rentals often offer better value than daily hire. Inspect the vehicle carefully and take photographs before driving away to avoid disputes. Returning the car on time and in clean condition helps avoid additional charges. Loyalty programmes and corporate discounts can also reduce costs for frequent renters.

Final Thoughts

A rental car opens up the best of West Devon's landscapes and villages. Compare providers, check terms carefully and drive with care on rural roads. Confirm current fleets and pricing directly with each rental company.