Landing at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), also known as Reina Sofia, is the exciting start to your island holiday. However, for many UK travellers, the process of picking up a rental car can feel a bit overwhelming after a 4-hour flight.
Whether it is your first time on the island or you are a regular visitor, this step-by-step guide will help you navigate the arrivals hall and get behind the wheel of your car as quickly as possible.
Step 1: Clearing Customs and Baggage Reclaim
Once you exit the plane, follow the signs for „Salidas / Way Out” and „Recogida de Equipajes / Baggage Reclaim”. Tenerife South is a large airport, so it might be a bit of a walk to the main terminal building.
After you have collected your suitcases, you will head through the final sliding doors into the main Arrivals Hall (Floor 0).
Step 2: Finding the Car Hire Desks at TFS
As soon as you enter the Arrivals Hall, you will see a long row of car hire desks. These are the „In-Terminal” suppliers.
Which companies are inside the terminal?
Most major international and local brands have desks here, including:
- 🏢 Local Giants: CICAR and TopCar (highly popular with regulars).
- 🌍 International Brands: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt.
- 💰 Budget Brands: Goldcar and InterRent.
⚠️ Important Note: If you have booked with an „Off-Site” company (often cheaper), you will not see a desk here. Instead, look for a representative holding a sign or head straight to the shuttle bus meeting point (see Step 4).
Step 3: The Paperwork – What You Need
When you reach the desk, the agent will ask for:
- 🪪 Your UK Driving Licence (the plastic photocard).
- 🛂 Your Passport.
- 💳 A Credit Card in the main driver’s name (for the security deposit).
- 📄 Your Booking Voucher (digital or printed).
💡 Expert Tip: Expect a bit of a queue during peak UK flight arrival times (usually between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM). If you are travelling as a couple, one person can head straight to the car hire desk while the other waits for the luggage to save time!
Step 4: Locating Your Car in the Parking Lot
Once you have your keys and your rental agreement, follow the signs for „Parking / Car Hire Pick-up”.
- Exit the terminal building and cross the road.
- The rental car park is located in Parking P0, directly opposite the terminal.
- Each company has its own clearly marked zone. Your rental agreement will usually have a parking bay number.
🚐 For Off-Site Suppliers: If your company is not in the main car park, you will need to take a Shuttle Bus (Courtesy Bus). These stop at the designated „Meeting Point” just outside the arrivals hall. They run every 10-15 minutes and take you to a nearby industrial estate (Polígono) where your car is waiting.
Step 5: The „Walk-Around” Inspection
Before you drive away, do not rush.
- Check the car for any scratches or dents not marked on your paperwork.
- Take photos or a quick video of the car’s exterior and wheels on your smartphone.
- Check the fuel level—ensure it matches the „Full-to-Full” policy you booked.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Don’t leave your holiday transport to chance. Booking in advance allows you to compare all suppliers at Tenerife South Airport in one place, ensuring you get the best price and the right car for your needs. Check out our main page for more independent advice and Tenerife road trip itineraries!