San Diego County Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in San Diego County

A coastal area with buildings on a hillside overlooking the ocean.
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San Diego

San Diego

What you need to know for your San Diego County car rental

These San Diego County insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: .

Reasons to book a car rental in San Diego County

Renting a car in San Diego County offers the freedom to explore the area's many attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is especially beneficial for families and those seeking outdoor and beach-related experiences. You can easily visit popular destinations such as LEGOLAND® California in Escondido, which is a great spot for family fun, or enjoy the scenic beauty of Mission Bay and Mission Beach, which are perfect for beach outings and outdoor activities. Additionally, having a car allows you to explore the vibrant city of San Diego and its attractions like Balboa Park. You can also venture to Carlsbad for its beautiful beaches and more family entertainment at LEGOLAND® California. The ease of having your own transportation makes it simpler to experience the diverse offerings of San Diego County, whether you are planning a beach day or a visit to the arts and culture in Escondido. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience in this beautiful coastal region.

Most popular car rentals in San Diego County

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle type is highly popular for travelers in San Diego County, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups who need a balance of space and comfort while exploring the region.
  • Standard SUV: The standard SUV is also a favored option, fitting 5 travelers with room for 2 medium suitcases. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a vehicle that combines practicality with the capability to navigate both city streets and more rugged terrains.
  • Fullsize: Ideal for families or groups, the fullsize car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes it a top choice for those who require extra space for luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore San Diego County comfortably.

Where to stay in San Diego County

  • San Diego: Enjoy a vibrant beach experience in San Diego, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities. With attractions like Mission Bay, perfect for scenic views and relaxation, and the popular Mission Beach for sun-soaked days, this city offers a delightful getaway. Explore Balboa Park, a stunning private garden, and indulge in various dining options nearby, including restaurants and wineries. San Diego is particularly enjoyable during the warmer months when outdoor activities are at their peak.
  • Carlsbad: Carlsbad is a fantastic choice for families seeking entertainment and outdoor fun. Home to LEGOLAND® California, a must-visit theme park for family vacations, Carlsbad also boasts beautiful beaches like Oceanside Beach and Carlsbad State Beach, ideal for beach lovers. The area features numerous resorts and recreation parks, making it perfect for relaxation and adventure. Visit during the spring or summer for the best beach weather and vibrant local events.
  • Escondido: Discover Escondido, a city that offers a blend of family experiences and cultural attractions. With the California Center For The Arts showcasing local talent and the historic San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park, there is plenty to explore. Families can also enjoy LEGOLAND® California, located nearby, while the pleasant surroundings provide a relaxing atmosphere. Escondido is best visited in spring or fall, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in San Diego County

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for more space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to find lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive 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 fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before making your reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable—just ensure you 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 added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something goes wrong during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in San Diego County

The best time to rent a car in San Diego County is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers excellent value for those looking to explore the area. March through May sees average prices and demand, which can also be a reasonable choice for rentals. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand for rentals as the summer peak arrives. June through August also experience increased prices and busy periods.

Find San Diego County Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next San Diego County car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in San Diego 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 San Diego County offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego County rental cars pick up locations

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

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a car from San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)?
Yes, and you won't be short on choice. After you touch down and collect your luggage, simply walk to the rental car center at the Rental Car Center. Here you can select from fantastic companies like Nu Car Rental, Pacific and ZipCar. If you'd like some more options, see what's on offer with Hertz and EZ.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Diego County car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours in advance of pickup, the majority of reservations qualify for a total refund. However, not every one is eligible for this, so it's important to understand your policy. Look over your booking for the details or head to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
How do I find the best car rental deals in San Diego County with Expedia?
Expedia makes it simple to compare fees, offers and rental companies, and to check customer ratings. Combine your San Diego County car rental with hotel or flight bookings to make even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in San Diego County?
You need to be at least 21 to grab the keys to a rental car in San Diego County. Take note that young drivers may be restricted to renting from a few car classes, such as economy, compact and medium size. Higher age limits generally apply for specialty and premium vehicles. Many companies will also charge an additional fee for young renters. Read through the rules before hitting the book button and factor any extra fees into your budget.
What do you need to rent a car in San Diego County?
Any rental company you select will ask for these two things — your driver's license and credit card. If you'd prefer to opt out of the supplier's insurance plan, proof of your own coverage will also likely be needed. Read your policy thoroughly so you know what to bring with you to the rental counter.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in San Diego County?
You can. Expedia partners with quality companies that offer long-term rentals for a wide range of cars. Head to our long-term car rental deals and explore every corner of San Diego County — or way beyond!
Where can I find a San Diego County car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a younger driver looking to rent a car in San Diego County, it'd be wise to check the terms and conditions of the car rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under the age of 25, some may not. Surcharges may apply if you're between 21 and 24 years old. To escape any unpleasant surprises at the rental counter, make sure you know what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in San Diego County?
After perfectly planning your road trip, don't skimp on your insurance — choose collision protection while booking your San Diego County rental car with Expedia. There are loads of benefits to this plan, including up to $35,000 in primary coverage for theft, vandalism and collision damage. Plus, with a zero-dollar deductible and round-the-clock emergency help, you can breathe a little easier if you find yourself in a pickle.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation