$84 Car Rental San Diego

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Top Car Deals in San Diego

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What you need to know for your San Diego car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Diego

Renting a car in San Diego allows you to explore the vibrant neighborhood and its surroundings with unparalleled freedom and flexibility. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a cultural explorer, or a nature lover, having a rental car means you can visit attractions at your own pace. For instance, you can easily drive to the Plaza Mayor Convention Center, perfect for business experiences, located just 0.9 miles away. Cultural enthusiasts can head to Pueblito Paisa, also 0.9 miles away, to immerse themselves in the local heritage. Families can enjoy outdoor time at Parques del Río Medellín, situated 1 mile from San Diego.

Moreover, a rental car makes it convenient to discover nearby neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles, both approximately 2 miles away, where you can explore Lleras Park and Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, respectively. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, a rental car is ideal for families and business travelers alike. Experience the beauty and culture of San Diego and its surroundings without the constraints of public transport, ensuring your trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Most popular car rentals around San Diego

  • Economy: An excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the economy car comfortably fits up to 5 travelers and accommodates 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those looking to explore San Diego's attractions without breaking the bank, providing a cost-effective way to navigate the neighborhood while enjoying the freedom of a rented vehicle.
  • Compact: The compact car is perfect for city driving in San Diego, fitting up to 5 travelers and allowing for 3 medium suitcases. This option is especially favored by solo adventurers, couples, and small families who appreciate the blend of efficiency and space. With its maneuverability, a compact car makes it easy to park in busy areas, enhancing your travel experience.
  • Midsize: If you are traveling as a couple or with family and need a bit more space, the midsize car is an excellent choice. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for longer journeys or trips requiring more luggage. This option balances comfort and practicality, allowing you to enjoy your time exploring San Diego without feeling cramped.

Top rated car suppliers around San Diego

  • Alamo Rent A Car: Located just 1 mile away from San Diego, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility. With a focus on Economy and Compact vehicles, Alamo caters to those looking for efficient and easy-to-maneuver options. Their single location makes picking up your rental a seamless experience, allowing you to start your adventure around San Diego without delay.
  • Sixt: Sixt is situated 2 miles from San Diego and is well-regarded for its friendly service and diverse vehicle offerings. Travelers can enjoy a selection of Midsize and Economy cars, making it a fantastic option for both individuals and families. The proximity of their rental location ensures that you can quickly hit the road and explore the beautiful surroundings of San Diego at your own pace.
  • Enterprise: With a location just 1 mile away from San Diego, Enterprise provides excellent accessibility for rental car needs. Known for its Economy and Compact vehicle selections, Enterprise is ideal for those who prioritize convenience and efficiency. Their commitment to customer service and ease of pickup ensures a smooth start to your exploration of San Diego and beyond.

Where to go around San Diego

  • El Poblado: Located 2 miles away from San Diego, El Poblado is a vibrant neighborhood appealing to families, business travelers, and city explorers. Visitors can enjoy various activities, from shopping at local centers to relaxing at spas. Key points of interest include Lleras Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and the Golden Mile, known for its lively atmosphere. EAFIT University is also nearby, adding a modern touch to this culturally rich area. The peak visitor months are July, September, and December, making it an ideal time for those looking to experience local events.
  • Laureles: Laureles is situated 2 miles from San Diego and offers a delightful mix of family-friendly attractions and urban experiences. This neighborhood is known for its educational institutions and sports facilities, with highlights like Second Laureles Park, a great spot for outdoor fun. The Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana brings a youthful energy to the area, while Pueblito Paisa showcases the region's cultural heritage. Visitors typically flock to Laureles in February, July, and November, ensuring a dynamic atmosphere during these months.
  • Buenos Aires: Buenos Aires is only 0.9 miles away from San Diego and offers a unique blend of family, outdoor, and city experiences. This neighborhood features popular attractions like Botero Plaza, a sculpture garden ideal for art lovers, and Medellin Boston's Park, which is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The Plaza Mayor Convention Center also provides a venue for various business events. The best time to visit Buenos Aires tends to be from December to February when the weather is pleasant and activities are abundant.

10 tips to save on your San Diego car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car to save money, utilizing filters on Expedia can help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so reserving your car well ahead of your trip is advisable. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This limitation can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions 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 extra charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth the extra 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 unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
  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 value period to rent a car in and around San Diego is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June also offers good value with similar pricing and average demand. Following this, the summer months of July through September maintain average prices and demand. However, December stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand due to holiday travel. January and February also see moderately high demand and slightly high prices.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
February64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
March64.6°F (18.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April64.6°F (18.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May64.4°F (18.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
June64.2°F (17.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
July64.4°F (18.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August64.6°F (18.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September64.4°F (18.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October63.1°F (17.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
November63.0°F (17.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly High
December63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$84
 
Our second best deal of the day
$87
 
Our third best deal of the day
$96
 
From the airport to your hotel
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From popular domestic and international airports
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in San Diego?
Budget car rentals started at $84 per day in San Diego, based on prices within the past seven days. With rates like this, we make it easy to grab some keys and zip off for less.
Can I rent a car from Jose Maria Cordova Intl. Airport (MDE)?
With Budget and Avis just a short distance from Jose Maria Cordova Intl. Airport (MDE), getting off the plane and onto the road is a cinch.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Diego car reservation?
Check through the policy to be certain, but nearly all prepaid reservations will receive a complete refund if you let us know a minimum of six hours before pickup. There are some exemptions though. Your confirmation will have more details, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Where can I go on a road trip from San Diego?
There are many exciting adventures to be had in San Diego, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Grab a set of wheels and you can wander around the surrounding region at your own speed. Add these fantastic destinations to your to-do list:

  • Head to Santa Rosa de Cabal for a fun-filled sightseeing adventure. Roughly 95 miles from San Diego, it's home to loads of amazing attractions, including Santa Rosa de Cabal Hot Springs.
  • Next stop? It has to be Pereira, which is around 100 miles away. Ukumari Zoo is one local hot spot you shouldn't miss.
  • Monserrate is around 150 miles from San Diego and is one of the region's most breathtaking nature spots. Go for a walk around and enjoy the fresh air here.

How do I find the best car rental deals in San Diego with Expedia?
Finding an awesome deal on your San Diego rental car is easy with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add some details and compare prices from top suppliers. Why not add hotels and flights to your booking? You'll score terrific discounts when you combine your bookings into a package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in San Diego?
If you're aged 18 and over, you can rent a vehicle in San Diego. Take into account that most rental companies will charge an extra fee if you're a young driver, which helps cover the higher damage risk involved. Also, young drivers usually aren't permitted to rent larger vehicles and luxury cars. Carefully read the terms and conditions before booking so there are no hassles at the rental counter.
What do you need to rent a car in San Diego?
Be prepared to present your driver's license and a credit card in your name when you get to the rental counter. Prior to pickup, check with your selected rental company whether anything else is needed. For example, you may also need to show proof of auto insurance.
What is the cheapest car rental in San Diego?
San Diego has had some very happy rental car drivers lately. Daily prices within the past seven days dropped as low as $84 and $87. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in San Diego?
You can, and the awesome news is companies often offer lower rates the longer you rent. Scroll through our long-term car rental deals in San Diego and score a real bargain.
Where can I find a San Diego car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some San Diego providers will rent to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Policies differ between suppliers, so you'll have to do your homework. Also, find out if there are any additional costs. Some businesses will apply a surcharge to young customers between the ages of 21 and 24. Always look through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in San Diego?
A thorough insurance policy is a smart choice for your upcoming San Diego trip. That's why we recommend purchasing collision protection while booking your rental car with Expedia. This insures your vehicle against theft, vandalism and collision damage. Some destinations may need you to have a minimum level of liability insurance. It's possible that this is included in your rental cost or your personal auto insurance, so check what you're covered for.
Can I drive in San Diego with my current driver's license?
If you don't hold a driver's license issued in Colombia, then you might need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be able to rent a car. You should also note that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll need to show your current license your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card you used to book the rental matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some other requirements for international car rentals are:

  • Age restrictions: You need to be at least 25 in most countries to rent a car. If you're younger, it might still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to what kinds of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the rules and regulations before getting behind the wheel. Typically, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or off road with a rental car.

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