$40 Car Rental San Diego, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Diego

Renting a car in San Diego offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like Mission Bay, known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor experiences, or relax at Mission Beach, perfect for beach activities. Balboa Park is also accessible, providing a serene environment for leisurely walks. If you’re interested in downtown experiences, your car allows you to conveniently reach popular spots such as the USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village, and Waterfront Park. Families will appreciate the ease of managing luggage and gear, making trips to places like Pacific Beach and its iconic Crystal Pier hassle-free. Whether you want to enjoy the beach, explore parks, or visit vibrant neighborhoods, a rental car ensures you can do so without the limitations of public transportation. This is especially beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a relaxed and enjoyable trip. With your own vehicle, you can create flexible travel plans that suit your schedule and interests, making your San Diego adventure truly your own.

Most popular car rentals in San Diego

• Midsize SUV: This car option is one of the most booked in San Diego, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who need room for luggage while exploring the beautiful sights of San Diego. With a midsize SUV, you'll enjoy the versatility and comfort needed for a pleasant driving experience.
• Standard SUV: Another popular choice, the standard SUV also accommodates 5 travelers but allows for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for couples, families, or groups looking for a reliable vehicle during their San Diego adventure. The standard SUV offers a balance of space and maneuverability, making it great for navigating both city streets and open roads.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is well-suited for those who need extra room, accommodating 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it particularly ideal for families and groups looking to travel comfortably. With a fullsize vehicle, you can enjoy ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for road trips around San Diego.

Top rated car suppliers in San Diego

• Alamo Rent A Car: Known for its friendly service and short wait times, Alamo Rent A Car has one rental location in San Diego. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, travelers appreciate the ease of renting from Alamo. The most booked vehicles are the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV, making it a great choice for those looking for comfort and space while exploring San Diego's attractions.
• Fox Rental Cars: With a single rental location in San Diego, Fox Rental Cars offers a variety of vehicles that cater to different preferences. Travelers often choose Midsize and Fullsize cars, perfect for families or groups looking to enjoy the city and surrounding areas. Fox is a reliable option for those seeking quality vehicles for their San Diego adventure.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Boasting over five rental locations throughout San Diego, Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice for many travelers. With a strong selection of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, this supplier ensures that you have plenty of options to suit your needs. Thrifty’s widespread presence in the area makes it convenient for pick-up and drop-off, enhancing your overall rental experience.

Where to stay in San Diego

• Downtown San Diego: Downtown San Diego is a vibrant neighborhood ideal for families and those seeking city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore attractions such as the USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village, and Waterfront Park, all within a short distance. The area also offers a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient choice for nightlife and relaxation. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
• Pacific Beach: Pacific Beach is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy the beach. It features attractions like Crystal Pier, Pacific Beach Park, and Mission Bay, which offer stunning scenic views and recreational opportunities. This neighborhood also boasts a lively boardwalk and various dining establishments, including local restaurants and wineries. Summer is a popular time to visit, as the beach is lively and perfect for sunbathing and water activities.
• Old Town San Diego: Old Town San Diego provides a unique blend of history and outdoor fun, making it a great spot for families. Key attractions include the Old Town San Diego State Park, Mission Bay, and Mission Beach, all nearby. The area is rich in shopping and dining options, including restaurants and wineries that showcase local flavors. Visiting in the spring or fall allows for enjoyable weather while exploring the rich cultural heritage of this historic neighborhood.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Diego

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 additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a solid compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium options—may not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making your reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
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: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning 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 necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around San Diego

The best time to rent a car in and around San Diego is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. These months provide excellent value for travelers. March through May also offer average pricing and demand, making them decent options as well. However, July tends to be the most expensive month due to high demand and rental prices. June through August also see elevated demand and prices, making them busier periods for car rentals.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in San Diego

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in San Diego

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in San Diego. We partner with 25 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 San Diego

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $40.

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