Uppsala
Car Rentals
Car rental services are readily available for those looking for flexible, self-driven travel around Uppsala and its nearby regions.
Sections
1. Car Rental Options in Uppsala
Uppsala has several car rental companies, ranging from international brands to local providers. Most rental offices are located in the city center, near Uppsala Central Station, or at nearby airports like Stockholm Arlanda Airport (about 30 minutes from Uppsala).
Major Car Rental Companies:
- Hertz: Offers a wide range of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUVs. Offices are located in Uppsala and at Arlanda Airport.
- Avis: Known for reliable service and a variety of car options. They have a location in Uppsala and at Arlanda Airport.
- Europcar: Offers competitive pricing and a good selection of vehicles. Available in Uppsala and at Arlanda Airport.
- Sixt: Popular for premium vehicles and flexible rental terms. Offices are available in Uppsala and at Arlanda Airport.
- MABI: A Swedish car rental company with a strong presence in Uppsala, offering affordable options and good customer service.
Local Car Rental Providers:
- Sunfleet (now part of M) by Volvo: A car-sharing service that operates in Uppsala, ideal for short-term rentals.
- GoMore: A peer-to-peer car rental platform where you can rent cars directly from locals.
2. Costs of Renting a Car
The cost of renting a car in Uppsala depends on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and additional services. Below is a general breakdown:
Average Daily Rental Costs:
- Economy Cars: SEK 400โ700 per day (โฌ35โ65)
- Mid-Size Cars: SEK 600โ1,000 per day (โฌ55โ90)
- SUVs or Premium Cars: SEK 1,000โ2,000 per day (โฌ90โ180)
- Electric/Hybrid Cars: SEK 800โ1,500 per day (โฌ70โ135)
Additional Costs:
- Fuel: Petrol costs around SEK 20โ25 per liter (โฌ1.80โ2.30).
- Insurance Add-ons: SEK 100โ300 per day (โฌ9โ27), depending on coverage.
- GPS Rental: SEK 50โ100 per day (โฌ4.50โ9), though most cars come equipped with built-in navigation.
- Child Seats: SEK 50โ150 per day (โฌ4.50โ13.50).
- One-Way Rentals: Additional fees may apply if you return the car to a different location.
Tips to Save Money:
- Book in advance to secure lower rates.
- Compare prices on platforms like Rentalcars.com or Auto Europe.
- Check for discounts through memberships (e.g., AAA, frequent flyer programs).
3. Required Documents for Renting a Car
To rent a car in Uppsala, youโll need the following:
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Driverโs License:
- EU/EEA citizens: A valid driverโs license from your home country is sufficient.
- Non-EU/EEA citizens: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if your license is not in English or Swedish.
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Passport or National ID:
- Required for identity verification.
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Credit Card:
- Most rental companies require a credit card for the deposit. Debit cards are not always accepted.
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Age Requirement:
- Minimum age: 18โ21 years (varies by company).
- Young driver surcharge: Drivers under 25 may incur an additional fee.
4. Insurance Policies
Car rental companies in Sweden typically include basic insurance in the rental price, but additional coverage is often recommended.
Types of Insurance:
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Collision Damage Waiver (CDW):
- Reduces your financial liability in case of damage to the car.
- Often included but may have a high deductible (SEK 5,000โ10,000).
-
Theft Protection (TP):
- Covers theft of the vehicle or parts of it.
- Usually included in the rental price.
-
Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI):
- Covers damage to third parties or property.
-
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI):
- Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
-
Zero-Excess Insurance:
- Optional add-on to eliminate the deductible entirely.
Tips:
- Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance.
- Verify what is included in the rental agreement to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage.
5. Driving Regulations in Sweden
Sweden has strict driving laws, and itโs important to familiarize yourself with them before hitting the road.
Key Rules:
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Drive on the Right:
- Sweden follows right-hand traffic.
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Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 30โ50 km/h.
- Rural roads: 70โ90 km/h.
- Highways: 110โ120 km/h.
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Seat Belts:
- Mandatory for all passengers.
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Alcohol Limit:
- The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%. Sweden has a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving.
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Headlights:
- Must be on at all times, even during the day.
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Winter Tires:
- Mandatory from December 1 to March 31 if there are winter conditions (snow, ice, or slush).
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Parking:
- Pay attention to parking signs and zones. Parking fees apply in most areas, and fines for illegal parking are high.
6. Local Tips and Considerations
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Navigation:
- Use Google Maps or a GPS device for navigation. Road signs are in Swedish but easy to understand.
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Fuel Stations:
- Most are self-service and accept credit cards. Look for stations like Circle K, OKQ8, or Preem.
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Toll Roads:
- There are no toll roads in Uppsala, but if you drive to Stockholm, you may encounter congestion charges.
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Eco-Friendly Options:
- Sweden is environmentally conscious, and many rental companies offer hybrid or electric vehicles. Charging stations are widely available in Uppsala.
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Exploring Nearby Areas:
- Uppsala is close to several attractions, such as Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), Sigtuna (Swedenโs oldest town), and Stockholm. Renting a car makes it easy to explore these destinations.
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Winter Driving:
- If youโre visiting in winter, ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires. Drive cautiously on icy roads.
7. Returning the Car
- Fuel Policy: Most companies require you to return the car with a full tank. Keep your receipt as proof.
- Damage Check: Inspect the car with the rental agent to avoid disputes.
- Drop-Off Locations: Confirm the drop-off location and hours in advance. Some companies offer after-hours drop-off.
By following this guide, youโll be well-prepared to rent and drive a car in Uppsala, Sweden. Enjoy your trip and safe travels!