$45 Car Rental Bakersfield, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bakersfield

Renting a car in Bakersfield offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families and adventure seekers, as a rental vehicle allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. You can visit key attractions like the Kern County Fairgrounds and The Park At River Walk, both great for outdoor and family experiences. For those interested in motorsports, the Kern County Raceway Park is also conveniently accessible with a rental car.

Additionally, a car rental makes it simple to explore nearby destinations such as Buttonwillow, known for its raceway and local landmarks, or Downtown Bakersfield, home to cultural sites like the Bakersfield Museum of Art and Kern County Museum. Wheeler Ridge is another nearby area featuring attractions like Tejon Ranch Commerce Center and Fort Tejon State Historic Park. With a rental car, you can navigate these locations effortlessly, ensuring you have a fulfilling experience while enjoying the sights and activities that Bakersfield has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Bakersfield

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travelers comfortably and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. It's ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Bakersfield and its surroundings. The spacious interior allows for a relaxed travel experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize comfort and room for luggage.
• Compact: The compact car is perfect for up to 5 travelers and can carry up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or families who need a vehicle that is easy to maneuver in urban settings. With its manageable size, it offers flexibility for navigating Bakersfield while keeping travel costs efficient.
• Fullsize: This car type accommodates 5 travelers and provides the flexibility to hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. The fullsize option is excellent for families or groups who require more space for both passengers and their belongings. It offers a perfect balance of comfort and capacity, making it a popular choice for those planning a trip in and around Bakersfield.

Top rated car suppliers in Bakersfield

• Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations in the Bakersfield area, providing travelers with convenient access to vehicles. Known for its affordability, Budget is a great choice for those looking for value without compromising on quality. The most booked cars with this supplier are Midsize and Fullsize, offering ample space for both passengers and luggage, making your travels comfortable and efficient.
• Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations throughout Bakersfield, Enterprise is an excellent option for those seeking maximum convenience. Their diverse fleet includes Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, perfect for various travel needs. Enterprise is recognized for its outstanding customer service, ensuring that your rental experience is smooth and enjoyable as you explore the area.
• Hertz: Hertz features 2 rental locations in Bakersfield, providing easy access to a selection of vehicles. Their Midsize and Fullsize cars are popular choices among travelers, offering a balance of comfort and space. Known for reliability and efficiency, Hertz ensures that you can hit the road quickly and easily, making it a solid choice for your car rental needs.

Where to stay in Bakersfield

• Buttonwillow: Located in the Bakersfield area, Buttonwillow is ideal for families and business travelers alike. Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities at the nearby Buttonwillow Raceway Park and Kern County Raceway Park, both perfect for motorsports enthusiasts. For a break from the adrenaline, explore local shopping centers or dine at nearby restaurants and wineries. Key attractions like the local theme park and film studio add to the charm of this city.
• West Park Community: This neighborhood offers a family-friendly atmosphere with an emphasis on outdoor activities and scenery. West Park Community is home to the Kern County Fairgrounds, a popular venue for events and fairs. The Bakersfield Museum of Art and the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science are also nearby, catering to culture and education enthusiasts. With a variety of restaurants in the vicinity, it’s a great spot for both relaxation and exploration.
• Oleander - Sunset: Known for its entertainment options, Oleander - Sunset is a vibrant neighborhood in Bakersfield. Visitors can enjoy events at the Kern County Fairgrounds and appreciate art at the Bakersfield Museum of Art. The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science provides family-friendly educational opportunities. With numerous restaurants nearby, this neighborhood is perfect for travelers looking to blend business with leisure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Bakersfield

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you’re likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports usually incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something goes awry during your trip. It’s easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bakersfield

The best time to rent a car in and around Bakersfield is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a great value period. January also offers similar benefits, while March and April see average prices and demand levels. As the summer approaches, July becomes the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices. June also tends to be busy and pricier, which may lead many to seek rentals earlier in the year.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	49.5°F (9.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	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	Average	Average
May	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	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	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	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 $45.

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