London Accounts for 40% of UK Car Hire Bookings Despite Olympics Traffic Concerns

LONDON, July 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

With just four days to go, drivers are showing little concern for the heavy traffic congestion expected in London for the Olympics as Carrentals.co.uk reports that almost 40% of its UK bookings have been made for pick-up locations in the capital.

Figures from earlier this year disclosed how there will be a 33%* increase in cars on the roads in London during the Olympics but this is not deterring Olympics spectators as they flock to the capital to be at the heart of the action.

Over half of all the bookings for pick-up between 20 July and 8 August have been made by UK residents, highlighting the number of UK residents travelling to London at the time of the Olympics.

Managing Director of Carrentals.co.uk, Gareth Robinson, said: "People are tempted to head to the Eurozone this summer due to the current exchange rates, but Brits are known for their patriotism and being the hosting nation for the Olympics is something people are proud of and want to be a part of. This has been reflected in the booking patterns we're seeing - the convenience and cost-effectiveness of hiring a car is outweighing the reports of extra congestion in London."

The figures also reveal that most customers hiring a car in London are looking to enjoy a short city break with the more than 1 in 5 travellers booking their rental for 3-4 days.

Other popular locations for car-hire pick up include Manchester and Birmingham airports, there is also a clear interest in trips to Edinburgh with holidaymakers opting for pick-up at the airport and downtown.

International customers are travelling from as far as Australia, the USA, Canada and United Arab Emirates to be in the UK for the Olympic Games and account for 45% of all UK bookings with Carrentals.co.uk.

Gareth Robinson added: "In order to avoid any disappointment, especially for those travelling to London to enjoy the games, it is important to take note of the advice out there and give yourself extra time to reach your destination. We would also suggest checking the opening hours of the car hire desk to ensure you have enough time to drop off your vehicle before your onward journey."

*Daily Mail - 18 January 2012

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