Car Rental Downtown Bakersfield, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Bakersfield

Renting a car in Downtown Bakersfield offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those traveling with luggage, as it allows for easy management of gear and a comfortable travel experience. With a rental car, you can visit notable destinations such as the Bakersfield Museum of Art, located conveniently in Downtown Bakersfield, or take a short drive to the Kern County Museum, just 1 mile away, for a cultural experience. Families can enjoy the Kern County Fairgrounds, located 2 miles away, which provides outdoor entertainment options. Additionally, a car makes it easy to explore nearby neighborhoods like Riviera - Westchester and Oleander - Sunset, both less than 1 mile from Downtown, where you can find attractions like the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science and more. Having a rental car ensures that you can manage your schedule without relying on public transportation, allowing for a more personalized and enjoyable visit to Bakersfield and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Bakersfield

• Fullsize: The Fullsize option is a popular choice for families and groups visiting Downtown Bakersfield. With the capacity to accommodate 5 travelers, this vehicle can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Its spacious interior ensures comfort during your travels, making it ideal for those who need extra room for luggage while exploring the area at their own pace.
• Compact: If you're traveling solo or with a partner or small family, the Compact car option is a convenient choice. It accommodates 5 travelers along with up to 3 medium suitcases, making it perfect for shorter trips or city driving. This vehicle provides flexibility and ease of navigation around Downtown Bakersfield, allowing you to enjoy your adventure without the need for excessive space.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is another excellent option for couples and families visiting Downtown Bakersfield. It offers enough room for 5 travelers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases, striking a balance between comfort and practicality. This versatile choice allows you to manage your luggage easily while providing a comfortable ride for your explorations in and around the city.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Bakersfield

• Hertz: Known for its friendly service, Hertz has a rental location just 4 miles away from Downtown Bakersfield. It’s a popular choice among travelers looking to explore the area. The most booked vehicles from Hertz include Midsize and Fullsize cars, making it an excellent option for those needing a bit more space while enjoying the sights of Bakersfield at their own pace.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations, the nearest one conveniently located in Downtown Bakersfield, Enterprise offers maximum convenience for your travel needs. They specialize in Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, providing a diverse selection suitable for various travel itineraries. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a favorite among visitors looking to explore the region comfortably.
• Priceless Car Rental: Also featuring two locations, Priceless Car Rental has its nearest outlet located 4 miles away from Downtown Bakersfield. This supplier is recognized for offering Midsize and Compact cars, making it a great choice for travelers seeking value and efficiency. Their accessible locations and vehicle options allow for a smooth and enjoyable rental experience during your visit.

Where to stay around Downtown Bakersfield

• Downtown Bakersfield: The heart of Bakersfield, Downtown offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to popular attractions such as the Kern County Fairgrounds, ideal for family and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore local dining options and enjoy shopping at nearby malls. The area is perfect for those looking to experience the city's culture and outdoor adventures.
• West Park Community: Located 2 miles from Downtown, West Park Community is known for its family-friendly environment and scenic views. It features attractions like the Bakersfield Museum of Art and the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science, making it a cultural hub. With various restaurants nearby, it’s an excellent choice for families and those seeking outdoor experiences.
• Oleander - Sunset: Only 1 mile from Downtown, Oleander - Sunset caters to families and business travelers alike. This neighborhood is home to the Kern County Fairgrounds and offers entertainment venues for various events. Visitors will find a range of dining options, ensuring a convenient stay close to both cultural and entertainment attractions.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you are likely to lock in lower rates and have better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals 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—like SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Renters over 70 years old could also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the most convenient option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the 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 help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides added peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Bakersfield

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Bakersfield is January, as prices and demand are both slightly low. Following this, September also offers a good opportunity with similar low demand and slightly low prices. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices. June through August see elevated demand levels, making them busier times for car rentals.

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	Average	Average
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	Average	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	Slightly High	Average
September	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
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	Average	Average