$51 Car Rental University of San Diego, CA

Reasons to book a car rental around University of San Diego

Renting a car around the University of San Diego offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently visit popular attractions such as Mission Bay, located just 2 miles away, and Mission Beach, which is 4 miles away. Both destinations provide stunning scenery and outdoor experiences that are perfect for a day out. Additionally, Balboa Park, situated 4 miles from the university, offers a unique opportunity to enjoy its lush gardens and cultural sights. Having a car makes it easy to travel with your luggage and adjust your plans as you wish, appealing to various travelers, whether you seek friendly people or a historical experience. You can also explore nearby neighborhoods like Morena and Old Town San Diego, both less than 1 mile away, where you can find even more attractions, including Old Town San Diego State Park. Overall, renting a car allows you to make the most of your visit while enjoying the diverse offerings of San Diego and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals near University of San Diego

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the attractions around University of San Diego. With its spacious interior and ample luggage capacity, a midsize SUV offers comfort and flexibility for your travel plans, making it a popular choice among visitors.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is best suited for couples, families, or groups who need a reliable option for navigating the area around University of San Diego. A standard SUV provides a balance of space and ease, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable ride while managing your luggage effortlessly.
• Fullsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for families and groups who require extra room for both passengers and luggage. The fullsize option ensures that everyone can travel together comfortably while having plenty of space for your belongings as you explore the surroundings of University of San Diego.

Top rated car suppliers near University of San Diego

• Enterprise: Enterprise has 3 rental locations, with the nearest being only 2 miles from the University of San Diego. Known for its friendly service, Enterprise has an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10. Travelers frequently book Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs with this supplier, making it a popular choice for those needing flexibility during their stay.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car operates 1 rental location, situated 3 miles away from the University of San Diego. This supplier is well-regarded for its friendly service and minimal wait times, earning an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. With Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs being the most booked options, Alamo is an excellent choice for travelers seeking convenience and efficiency.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental offers 2 rental locations, with one just 2 miles from the University of San Diego. This supplier is popular for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, catering to a variety of needs. While the specific rating is not highlighted, Thrifty’s proximity and vehicle options make it a favorable choice for those exploring the area.

Where to stay near University of San Diego

• Beach Cities San Diego County: Located 3 miles away from the University of San Diego, this vibrant area is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With beautiful beaches and scenic locations like Mission Bay and Mission Beach, you can enjoy a sunny beach vacation. The local shopping centers and resorts offer convenient amenities, while nearby dining options include delightful restaurants and wineries for a taste of local flavors.
• Coronado Island: Situated 5 miles from the University of San Diego, Coronado Island is an idyllic destination for those seeking outdoor and beach experiences. The stunning Coronado Beach and family-friendly areas make it an appealing choice for travelers. You can explore the USS Midway Museum for a dose of culture or visit Seaport Village for a day of shopping and entertainment. The area is also home to various dining options, including restaurants and wineries.

10 tips to save on your car rental around University of San Diego

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars 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 types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—may be unavailable. This may also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs an additional fee, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 around University of San Diego

The best time to rent a car around the University of San Diego is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers great value for those looking to save. March through May sees average prices and demand, making it a decent shoulder option. However, from June through August, prices and demand trend upward, with July typically being the busiest month for rentals. The summer months can be the most expensive time to rent a car in the area.