$35 Car Rental Bakersfield, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bakersfield

Renting a car in Bakersfield is an excellent choice for those looking to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings. With a rental vehicle, you gain the freedom to visit key attractions such as the Dignity Health Arena and the Kern County Fairgrounds at your own pace, making it convenient for family travelers and adventurers alike. The flexibility of having your own car allows for easy luggage management, ensuring a comfortable journey as you head to locations like California State University-Bakersfield.

Additionally, a rental car provides easy access to nearby destinations like Lamont, Oildale, and Downtown Bakersfield. You can easily explore attractions in these areas, including the Kern County Museum and Bakersfield Museum of Art, without worrying about public transportation schedules. Families will appreciate the spaciousness of a rental vehicle, accommodating strollers and luggage while keeping everyone together. Whether you're planning to enjoy outdoor experiences or city adventures, renting a car in Bakersfield makes it simple to create your own itinerary and discover all that this region has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Bakersfield

• Midsize: This car type comfortably fits 5 travelers and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples and families. Its spacious interior and manageable size make it perfect for navigating the bustling streets of Bakersfield while providing enough room for your luggage. Whether you're heading out for a family adventure or a road trip with friends, the midsize option offers a balanced combination of comfort and practicality.
• Economy: The economy car is a popular choice for those traveling solo, as well as couples and families. It fits 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This compact option not only makes city driving easier but also helps you save on fuel costs. Perfect for those looking to explore Bakersfield's attractions at their own pace, the economy car offers flexibility and convenience for various travel plans.
• Fullsize: Offering room for 5 travelers and accommodating up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is well-suited for families and larger groups. Its spacious interior ensures comfort during longer drives, making it an excellent choice for those venturing out to explore the Bakersfield area. With ample luggage space, you can pack everything you need for your trip without compromising on comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Bakersfield

• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations in the Bakersfield area, making it easy for travelers to access their services. Known for its affordability, Budget is a popular choice for those seeking value without sacrificing quality. The most booked vehicles from this supplier are Midsize and Fullsize cars, ideal for both solo travelers and families looking for comfort and space on the road.
• Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations in and around Bakersfield, Enterprise is a convenient option for tourists. Their extensive network ensures that you can easily pick up and drop off your rental car. Customers frequently choose Midsize and Fullsize vehicles from Enterprise, balancing comfort and performance for a variety of travel needs.
• Hertz: Hertz offers 2 rental locations in Bakersfield, providing travelers with accessible options for car rentals. This supplier is well-regarded for its reliable service and vehicle selection. Midsize and Fullsize cars are the most popular choices among Hertz customers, making it a solid option for those looking to explore the attractions of Bakersfield and its surroundings.

Where to go in Bakersfield

• Lamont: Lamont is a vibrant city within the Bakersfield area, attracting visitors year-round for family-friendly entertainment and business experiences. Popular attractions include the Kern County Fairgrounds, perfect for outdoor family activities, and the Dignity Health Arena, known for its entertainment events. Additionally, Bowlero Bakersfield offers a fun bowling experience. The best time to visit Lamont is from February to March and July when traveler arrivals peak.
• Oildale: Oildale is a charming neighborhood that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and family experiences. Visitors can explore the Dignity Health Arena for entertainment or immerse themselves in local history at the Kern County Museum. Bakersfield College adds a cultural touch with its historic significance. Peak visitor numbers occur in February to March and July, making these months a great time to experience Oildale's offerings.
• Downtown Bakersfield: As the heart of the Bakersfield area, Downtown Bakersfield is renowned for its cultural and entertainment venues. The Dignity Health Arena and the Bakersfield Museum of Art are highlights, providing a mix of family entertainment and cultural experiences. Visitors can also enjoy events at the Kern County Fairgrounds. The ideal time to visit Downtown Bakersfield is from March to April and July, when traveler numbers are at their highest.

10 tips to save on your Bakersfield car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded locations. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements follow a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it offers might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning to take long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bakersfield

The best time to rent a car in and around Bakersfield is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is also low, making it a great value month. April and May are also appealing, as they maintain slightly low demand and average pricing. However, the demand and prices begin to rise in June and July, which are the most expensive months of the year, with high demand making rentals busier and pricier. August sees a slight decline in demand but still holds slightly high prices.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	49.5°F (9.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	50.5°F (10.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	61.0°F (16.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	77.2°F (25.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	84.0°F (28.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	82.2°F (27.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.0°F (12.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Bakersfield

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Bakersfield into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Bakersfield and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Bakersfield

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Bakersfield. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Bakersfield

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $35.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals