A Real Example: What a Weekend Hire Actually Looked Like.
What Affects the Price of Weekend Car Hire?
Do We Offer Weekend Deals?
Expert Tips: How to Save Money on Weekend Car Hire.
What You Should Always Check Before Booking.
So… How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car for the Weekend?
Thinking About Hiring a Car This Weekend?
If you’re planning a weekend away or simply need a reliable vehicle from Friday to Monday, one of the first questions you’ll want answered is:
As a local car and van hire provider covering Accrington, Bolton, Burnley, Blackburn and Manchester, we’ve helped hundreds of customers choose the right vehicle at the right price and avoid the hidden fees that often come with national chains.
This guide breaks down real weekend prices, what affects the cost, ways to save money, and even a real customer example to help you budget confidently.
Weekend hire prices depend on the type of vehicle you choose. At Alpha Car and Van Hire, our pricing is transparent, with insurance, breakdown cover and unlimited mileage included on all cars (except sports & performance).
Perfect for local trips, short breaks and budget-friendly travel.
Example vehicles: small city cars, compact hatchbacks.
Ideal for families, commuting or longer UK drives.
Example vehicles: mid-size hatchbacks, saloons.
Great for comfort, longer journeys or special weekends.
Example vehicles: executive saloons, stylish newer models.
For those wanting something exciting or special-event ready.
Note: these vehicles include insurance but do not include unlimited mileage.
For moves, work jobs or transporting equipment over a weekend
(Prices vary depending on size and ask for a tailored quote.)
There are no hidden fees, which is one of the biggest things that sets us apart from other rental companies.
To give you a clearer idea, here’s a real customer case study from Alpha:
A customer hired a Kia Niro for a family break.
Extras: No surprises, no additional charges
They told us they specifically chose Alpha Car and Van Hire because they’d had issues with hidden fees at national chains, something we never do.
This kind of transparency means you always know exactly what you’re paying for.
They told us they specifically chose Alpha Car and Van Hire because they’d had issues with hidden fees at national chains, something we never do.
This kind of transparency means you always know exactly what you’re paying for.
While our pricing is clear and consistent, here are the key factors that influence overall cost:
Car Size & Category
A smaller car is naturally more affordable than an SUV or performance vehicle.
Vehicle Availability
Last-minute bookings are always welcome (we get a lot!), but popular models can go quickly.
Seasonal Demand
School holidays, bank holidays, Christmas and summer often book out early.
Type of Insurance
Our standard insurance is included, but customers can choose to reduce excess.
Yes but not on set dates.
We offer exclusive discounts throughout the year, usually based on availability, returning customers or last-minute bookings.
If you call us directly, you can get up to 10% off selected vehicles, even for a same-day pickup.
After years of helping customers choose the right rental, here are the most effective ways to keep costs down:
Economy cars save you money on both
Prices remain fixed, but availability goes fast, especially premium cars.
We can sometimes offer discounts that aren’t available online.
All of this is included as standard at Alpha Car and Van Hire
No matter who you hire from, make sure you check:
Knowing these in advance avoids surprises and ensures a smooth weekend trip.
For most drivers in the North West, a weekend hire will cost between £195 and £450, depending on the vehicle you choose more for performance models.
But what matters just as much as price is what’s included.
Give us a quick call and we’ll help you find the right vehicle and the best price available.
Call Alpha Car & Van Hire
01254 490769
Or reserve a car today
