When you come to Antigua, you will see that the island is full of beaches, hills, and small villages. To explore all of these places, it is best to rent a car. Public transport does not reach many parts of the island, and taxis can be costly. But the big question is: what is the best car for exploring Antigua? Should you choose a small compact car, or go for a bigger SUV? Each option has good points, and it depends on your travel plans. In this guide, you’ll know how each car works on Antiguian roads, so you can decide which is right for you.
Antigua is a small island nation with diverse roads and terrain. The country follows British driving rules, which means driving on the left-hand side of the road. Many of the main roads on Antigua are paved and generally in good condition. However, you should also be prepared for narrow roads, especially in villages, and occasional potholes or unmarked speed bumps. The island’s landscape is hilly in parts, leading to blind corners and winding routes in some areas. Another thing to note is that if you're visiting from abroad, you’ll need to get a temporary local driving permit. It costs around US$20, and it’s valid for 3 months.
Compact cars are built with small engines and a shorter wheelbase, which are practical for island driving. Their design is optimised for fuel efficiency, easier manoeuvring, and quick handling, which is useful on Antigua’s narrow village roads and crowded parking areas. They are also cheaper to run for travellers on a budget.
Compact cars are small, lightweight vehicles that are fuel-efficient and simple to handle. They usually have smaller engines (around 1.2 to 1.6 litres) and a shorter wheelbase, which makes them easy to manoeuvre on Antigua’s narrow roads and busy town streets. One of their biggest advantages is how easy to park they are. In St. John’s and other popular areas where parking is limited, a smaller car can fit into tight spaces without much stress. This is especially helpful if you want to visit local markets or crowded beaches.
Compact cars also tend to be affordable, making them a popular choice for travellers. In most cases, a compact car has a lower daily rental rate compared to larger vehicles. On top of that, they use less petrol, so you will save money at the fuel station. For anyone searching for affordable car rentals in Antigua, a compact is often the best option. It allows you to explore the island while keeping your budget under control.
Despite their small size, compact cars can carry two to four passengers comfortably and usually have enough boot space for luggage or beach gear. They are practical for couples or small families planning to hop between resorts, beaches, and restaurants. The only point to remember is that they sit lower to the ground, so you should drive slowly over potholes or rough patches to avoid scraping the underside. Since most popular spots in Antigua are accessible by regular cars, compact models are usually enough for sightseeing and daily driving.
SUVs are built with high ground clearance, strong suspension systems. They often come with all-wheel drive or 4×4 features. These make them better for uneven or rough roads, compared to a low-sitting car. On Antigua’s hilly terrain and rural tracks, an SUV provides stability and durability.
SUVs are larger vehicles designed to handle a variety of terrains. Their robust suspension and bigger tyres allow them to manage unpaved roads and bumpy surfaces. If you venture into rural areas, dirt tracks, or gravel paths, the wheels and suspension of an SUV help absorb shocks, and the car’s underside is less likely to scrape against rocks or holes. This makes them highly practical for drivers exploring beyond Antigua’s main paved roads.
One of the main benefits of an SUV is the extra interior space. Most models have seating for five or more passengers and a large boot capacity for luggage, snorkelling gear, or picnic supplies. Families and groups of friends will appreciate the comfort of roomy seating on long drives. The higher seating position also gives a commanding road view, which is very helpful on Antigua’s winding and hilly routes, where seeing over hedges and around corners improves safety and confidence.
You must often travel down sandy or gravel paths to reach secluded beaches or trailheads. SUVs with all-wheel drive or 4×4 systems can manage these conditions without getting stuck. For example, reaching Mount Obama (Boggy Peak) is easier with a sturdy SUV, as the road to the hiking trail is rough. Likewise, an SUV is more reliable in Barbuda, where many roads are sandy tracks. While SUVs cost more to rent and consume more fuel than compact cars, they can reach hidden spots.
Now that we've examined each type of vehicle, let’s combine our findings to decide on the best car for exploring Antigua based on your situation.
Think about where you plan to drive. If your itinerary includes popular attractions like the main historic sites and beaches, you'll be on paved roads, and a compact car will serve you well. On the other hand, if you're an adventurer who wants to explore remote areas such as lesser-known beach coves or nature trails, you might encounter dirt roads or uneven tracks. To reach places like the start of the trail up Mount Obama or a hidden beach down a long dirt lane, an SUV would make the journey easier and more comfortable.
How many people are you travelling with, and how much luggage do you have? A compact car has plenty of space for a solo traveller or a couple with two suitcases. But if you are a family of four with large suitcases or a group carrying sports equipment like golf clubs or diving gear, you may need the extra space of an SUV. No one enjoys a cramped car on holiday. A larger vehicle ensures everyone can sit comfortably, and you have room for all your luggage and beach gear.
If you are used to driving only small cars or are nervous about driving in a foreign country, you might feel more at ease with a compact car. Its small size makes it easy to handle on narrow roads and tight turns. Additionally, adjusting to left-side driving might be simpler in a compact because the car’s size is easier to judge for someone not used to the opposite side of the road. Conversely, if you are an experienced driver who doesn’t mind handling a larger vehicle, an SUV will pose no problems.
Rental costs in Antigua vary by vehicle type, season, and demand. Here are some factors to consider before booking your car rental:
Compact cars usually start at a much lower daily rate, while SUVs can be almost double the price during peak season. This makes smaller cars more affordable, especially if you stay longer or drive daily. If you want to prioritise affordable car rentals in Antigua, a compact car is generally the best choice, as it saves money on rental and fuel.
Petrol prices in Antigua are higher than in many other places, since all fuel is imported. A compact car’s smaller engine allows it to use less petrol over the same distance, meaning fewer refills and extra savings during your trip. SUVs, in contrast, have bigger engines and more weight, which means they will consume more fuel per mile. While not a significant issue for some travellers, this can add up quickly if you plan to drive around the island extensively.
Seasonal demand can significantly affect rental costs, especially in winter and early spring when Antigua sees the most tourists. Book your car early to lock in better rates and ensure you get the desired vehicle type. Last-minute rentals, especially at the airport, may leave you with only expensive options.
The best car for driving in Antigua and Barbuda depends on your travel plans, group size, and comfort level. A compact car is budget-friendly, easy to park, and great for city streets and short trips. An SUV offers more space, stability, and the ability to handle rougher terrain and rural tracks. You can move smoothly from beaches to villages and hilltop views by matching the car to your itinerary.
To make your trip easier, rent a car in Antigua with Final Rentals. You can pick up your vehicle directly at V.C. Bird International Airpor for a flexible start to your journey. Choose from compact cars for affordable island driving, SUVs for families, or 4x4s for remote beaches and trails. With transparent pricing, no hidden fees, instant confirmation, and simple cancellation policies, Final Rentals ensures a smooth rental process. For extra convenience, you can also download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
