$37 Car Rental Palm Desert, CA

These Palm Desert insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 4, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Palm Desert

Renting a car in Palm Desert offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area's attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites such as The Lakes Country Club, Civic Center Park, and the Palm Desert Cross, all conveniently located within the city. Families will appreciate the spaciousness and comfort of a rental car, making it easier to travel with kids and gear for outdoor adventures.

Additionally, a rental car allows for convenient day trips to nearby cities like Indian Wells, just 2 miles away, where you can enjoy the Vintage Club and Indian Wells Golf Course, or Rancho Mirage, located 4 miles away, home to the Sunnylands Center and Gardens. If you want to explore further, Desert Palms features attractions such as the Palm Royale Country Club. With so much to see and do in and around Palm Desert, having your own vehicle ensures you can create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests and schedule.

Most popular car rentals in Palm Desert

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for travelers in Palm Desert, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families who appreciate maneuverability in the city and the ability to easily park in tight spots while enjoying the flexibility of exploring at their own pace.
• Economy: The Economy car, similar to the Compact, also caters to up to 5 travelers but has space for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for a budget-friendly rental. The Economy car is efficient and easy to drive, providing a cost-effective way to explore the beautiful surroundings of Palm Desert.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing extra room, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic choice. It accommodates up to 5 passengers and can hold 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle offers more space and comfort, allowing travelers to enjoy their journeys in Palm Desert with ease, particularly when carrying larger amounts of luggage.

Top rated car suppliers in Palm Desert

• Budget: Budget is a popular choice among travelers in Palm Desert, known for its friendly service and convenient location. With one rental location in the area, Budget makes it easy to pick up your vehicle and start your adventure. The most booked cars with this supplier are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, perfect for those needing extra space for luggage or passengers. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring Palm Desert at your own pace with Budget.
• Hertz: Hertz offers reliable car rental services in Palm Desert with one rental location available. This supplier is favored for its selection, particularly with the Midsize SUV and Economy models, catering to a variety of travel needs. Hertz is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction, making your rental experience smooth and hassle-free. Renting from Hertz allows you to explore the beautiful surroundings of Palm Desert comfortably.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations in Palm Desert, Enterprise provides maximum convenience for travelers. This supplier is a favorite for those looking for a diverse range of vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, ideal for those wanting a bit more luxury during their trip. Enterprise's friendly staff and commitment to excellent service ensure a pleasant rental experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey through Palm Desert.

Where to stay around Palm Desert

• Rancho Mirage: Located 4 miles away from Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage is ideal for a romantic or family getaway. Visitors can enjoy various resorts and body treatment facilities, along with golf at Thunderbird Country Club. Key points of interest include the historic Sunnylands Center and Gardens and the scenic Indian Canyon, perfect for outdoor adventures. With a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, Rancho Mirage offers a delightful combination of relaxation and exploration.
• Indian Wells: Situated 2 miles from Palm Desert, Indian Wells is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The city features several golf courses, including the prestigious Vintage Club and Indian Wells Golf Course. Notable landmarks such as national state parks and sports facilities add to the charm. With an array of nearby dining options and wineries, Indian Wells provides a perfect blend of leisure and activity for visitors.
• La Quinta: Located 5 miles away from Palm Desert, La Quinta is known for its outdoor and sports experiences. The city boasts impressive golf courses like PGA West Golf Course and Rancho La Quinta Golf Club. With nearby sports facilities and national parks, La Quinta is ideal for active travelers. Dining options range from casual eateries to fine dining, making it a great spot for families seeking an engaging atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Palm Desert

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize filters on Expedia to help you identify the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver 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 categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also work well. Just ensure you 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 may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept 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 events during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Palm Desert

The best value period to rent a car in and around Palm Desert is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately high. Following that, September and November also present good opportunities with slightly low prices and moderate demand. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, characterized by slightly high prices and average demand. March also sees high demand, making it a busier time for car rentals. Prices generally remain average in February and December, adding to the busy months in the region.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	53.8°F (12.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
February	55.8°F (13.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
April	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
July	88.5°F (31.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	88.2°F (31.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
September	82.8°F (28.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	71.8°F (22.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	52.5°F (11.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Palm Desert

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Palm Desert

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Palm Desert. 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 Palm Desert

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $37.

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