Orange County Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Orange County

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What you need to know for your Orange County car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Orange County

Renting a car in Orange County is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the region at their own pace. With a rental car, you have the freedom and flexibility to visit key attractions like Disneyland® Resort and Knott's Berry Farm, both ideal for family experiences and adventure. You can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans on the go, making it convenient for families and those seeking outdoor activities. Additionally, popular destinations such as Anaheim, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach are all within a short drive. In Anaheim, you can enjoy the thrill of Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park. Newport Beach offers beautiful spots like Crystal Cove Beach and Balboa Pier, while Laguna Beach features scenic locations such as Treasure Island Beach and Heisler Park. Having a rental car allows you to navigate the diverse attractions of Orange County effortlessly, enhancing your sightseeing experience while catering to both family-oriented and adventure-seeking travelers.

Most popular car rentals in Orange County

  • Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This car type offers a perfect balance of space and comfort, making it suitable for those who need extra room for luggage while enjoying the flexibility to explore Orange County.
  • Fullsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases—ideal for families and groups. The fullsize option provides ample space for everyone and their belongings, ensuring a comfortable ride while navigating the attractions of Orange County.
  • Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, or groups. This vehicle offers a cozy interior with enough room for your essentials, making it a great choice for those looking to travel comfortably around Orange County.

Where to stay in Orange County

  • Anaheim: Known for its family and entertainment-themed experiences, Anaheim is home to iconic attractions such as the Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park, both ideal for family vacations. The area boasts a variety of shopping centers and restaurants, providing ample food and drink options. Nearby, you can also explore Knott's Berry Farm, a popular amusement park that offers outdoor adventure for all ages.
  • Newport Beach: This city offers a delightful blend of family, outdoor, and city-themed experiences. Visitors to Newport Beach can enjoy beautiful locales like the Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier. The area is also known for its stunning beaches, such as Crystal Cove Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. Shopping centers and golf venues add to the variety of activities available.
  • Laguna Beach: For those seeking a family and outdoor beach experience, Laguna Beach is an excellent choice. Its picturesque beaches, including Treasure Island Beach and Thousand Steps Beach, are perfect for a beach vacation. The area also features Heisler Park, an urban park that offers scenic views and access to a charming tourist precinct, making it a great spot for relaxation and exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Orange County

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you’re in need of an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium 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 require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports usually incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies strictly accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you anticipate taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Orange County

The best time to rent a car in Orange County is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February follows closely, offering low prices and the lowest demand of the year. May also presents a great opportunity, with slightly low prices and steady demand. In contrast, June through August see higher prices and increased demand, making them the most expensive months for rentals. September then returns to average prices with slightly low demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Find Orange County Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Orange County car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Orange County, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Orange County offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Orange County car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Orange County to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Orange County airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Orange County rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Orange County airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Orange County?
You can find cheap car rentals in Orange County from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's economy 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Orange County are picked up at the region's main gateway, Los Angeles Airport (LAX). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Newport Beach, where rates start from $10 a day, and Anaheim, also starting from $10 a day. Suppliers such as Sixt and Enterprise operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Orange County.
What are the best car rentals in Orange County?
Car rentals across Orange County offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental, broadly available in the region's main cities — Newport Beach, Anaheim, and Laguna Beach. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard elite SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Orange County.

What are the best car rental companies in Orange County?
For car rentals across Orange County, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Newport Beach, Anaheim, and Laguna Beach. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Los Angeles Airport (LAX) for exploring Orange County?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Los Angeles Airport (LAX) for exploring Orange County. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental operate at the airport, with rates from around $11 a day. LAX is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Newport Beach to Anaheim.
Can I rent a car one-way in Orange County?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Orange County — pick up in one city, such as Newport Beach, and drop-off in another, like Anaheim, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Orange County?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Orange County, including in Newport Beach and Anaheim. Sixt and Enterprise both offer hybrid from $11 a day and electric options from $10 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Orange County?
For luxury car rentals across Orange County, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $16 a day (and fullsize elite SUV from $21), while Enterprise and Thrifty Car Rental add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Newport Beach and Anaheim. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Orange County.
What are the best car rentals in Orange County for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Orange County, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Newport Beach to Anaheim:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $12 a day
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $30 a day
  • Thrifty Car Rental: fullsize recreational vehicle from $23 a day
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Orange County.

What are the best car rentals in Orange County for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Orange County for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Newport Beach and Anaheim:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, from $12 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact SUV, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Orange County.

What are the best car rentals in Orange County for couples?
The best car rentals in Orange County for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Newport Beach and Anaheim:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, from $11 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible for scenic drives around Orange County. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Orange County.

What are the closest airports to Orange County for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Orange County offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Los Angeles Airport (LAX)
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA)
  • Long Beach Airport (LGB)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Orange County by rental car?
From Orange County, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Newport Beach hub include:
  • The Village, Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino County, California, United States of America, approximately 1 mile away
  • Big Bear Lake, California, United States of America, approximately 1 mile away
  • Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California, United States of America, approximately 2 miles away
Time your trip around events like Pacific Airshow, or add activities such as Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets. With cities like Anaheim also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Orange County.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Orange County?
In Orange County, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Orange County?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Orange County. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Orange County?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Orange County?
Budget car rental in Orange County can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Orange County?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Orange County. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Orange County car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Orange County?
To rent a car in Orange County, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Orange County car rental?
If you need to cancel your Orange County car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
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