As a specialist in car rentals in Réunion, Thrifty offers a wide range of modern, clean, well-maintained, and secure vehicles. With our three locations on the island and our website, you can book your rental for your stay and pick up your car on-site, ready to drive.
From compact city cars for urban trips or beach visits, to minibuses suitable for group travel and large families, as well as hybrids and SUVs, Thrifty always has the right vehicle for you at the best value.
Thrifty Réunion offers five distinct categories in its fleet:
• City Cars and Compacts:
Lightweight and fuel-efficient, these vehicles are perfect for touring the island, going to the beach, and visiting the main tourist attractions along the coast. Available with petrol or diesel engines, they can carry up to 5 passengers depending on the model. They also include air conditioning and unlimited mileage.
• SUVs and Crossovers:
Available in petrol or diesel, these are among the most popular models in our fleet thanks to their comfort, space, and robustness. Whether you're driving on coastal roads or winding inland routes, our SUVs and crossovers will take you to every corner of the island with ease.
• Green Collection:
Available only with automatic transmission, this range features hybrid vehicles with both petrol and electric engines — offering two advantages: reducing your environmental impact and lowering your fuel consumption. At low speeds, such as in urban areas, they run solely on electricity.
• Premium:
Our Premium range includes spacious, ultra-comfortable models. Equipped with automatic transmission and all the comfort you need, they make every journey relaxing so you can focus entirely on your well-deserved holiday.
• Family Cars and Minibuses:
This XXL range includes our most spacious vehicles, able to transport up to 9 passengers depending on the model, with very large boot space. Ideal for large families, group travel, or trips with friends.
Thrifty is the leading car rental provider on Réunion Island. To rent a quality, safe vehicle adapted to your needs, visit one of our three local agencies:
At Roland Garros Airport (97438):
Perfect for reaching your hotel quickly, dropping off your luggage, and enjoying your stay right away. Our airport agency saves you valuable time!
In Sainte-Marie (97438):
Also close to Roland Garros Airport, our Sainte-Marie agency allows you to pick up your vehicle while avoiding the airport crowds and traffic. A shuttle service can take you between the airport and the agency.
In Saint-Gilles-les-Bains (97434):
Located on the west coast of the island, away from Saint-Denis and the airport, this agency is ideal for reaching Réunion’s most beautiful beaches in just a few minutes! Perfect for anyone staying around Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, Saint-Paul, or Saint-Leu.
To rent a car with Thrifty Réunion, we require:
A valid driving licence for all French drivers
A valid driving licence + international driving permit for all foreign drivers
A valid ID card or passport for all drivers, French or foreign
We also require:
A credit or debit card in the name of the main driver
A credit or debit card for a pre-authorization to secure the deposit
Please note:
Photocopies are always refused.
All drivers must be at least 21 years old and have held a licence for at least 1 year.
Some ranges require a higher minimum age and/or longer driving experience.
At Thrifty Réunion, customer satisfaction is our priority.
Included with all vehicles at no extra cost:
Recent, clean, and safe models
Air conditioning and unlimited mileage
Pick-up directly at Roland Garros Airport
Optional extras (selectable):
Additional driver (up to 5 extra drivers)
Baby seat (essential for travelling with infants)
Child booster seat (mandatory until age 10)
Thrifty Réunion is committed to offering the best value for money. Here are a few tips for getting even cheaper rental rates:
Book well in advance
Pay using holiday vouchers
Take advantage of Thrifty Réunion promotions
Choose a vehicle that suits your real needs
Consider engine type and transmission
Tip #1: Book Well in Advance
Planning to visit us in six months? Then don’t wait until the last minute to reserve your rental car! During certain times of the year—especially in summer—it’s common for many tourists and visitors to book their cars at the same time, sometimes just days or even hours before departure. By booking early, you are guaranteed to choose the vehicle that meets all your criteria (type of travel, engine type, trunk space, and more).
Tip #2: Pay with Holiday Vouchers
At Thrifty Réunion, you can use your holiday vouchers (chèques vacances) to rent a car in Réunion. As a reminder, ANCV vouchers are valid for two years beyond their year of issue and can be obtained through your employer, Works Council (CE), or Social and Economic Committee (CSE).
Tip #3: Take Advantage of Thrifty Réunion Promotions
On our promotions page, you’ll find special offers throughout the year that allow you to enjoy exceptional discounts! Whether it’s Thrifty Réunion promo codes for our rental vehicles or deals with our partners, don’t miss the chance to arrive on Réunion Island and start your trip at the best price!
Tip #4: Rent a Car That Suits You
Defining your main criteria can be economically wise. Your needs will differ depending on whether you plan to spend your holidays at the beach (city car) or explore the island’s interior (SUVs and Crossovers). If you’re looking for an all-in-one vehicle, the Green Collection range is an excellent alternative.
Tip #5: Consider the Engine Type and Transmission
The engine type and transmission play an important role in a vehicle’s fuel consumption. On average, a diesel engine consumes about 15% less fuel than a petrol engine. As for the manual transmission, it can reduce fuel consumption by 5 to 15% compared to an automatic transmission.