Shasta County Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Shasta County

What you need to know for your Shasta County car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Shasta County

Renting a car in Shasta County offers the freedom to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and customize your travel plans, making it a convenient option for all types of travelers. If you are seeking outdoor adventures, a visit to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a must, where you can immerse yourself in stunning scenery. For a cultural experience, you can head to Bethel Church in Redding, which showcases the local culture. Additionally, Shasta Lake is perfect for those looking for beach and romance experiences, allowing for a relaxing day by the water. The cities of Redding, Shasta Lake, and Lakehead are all accessible by car, making it easy to discover attractions such as the Sundial Bridge and Shasta Dam. Whether you are looking for adventure, scenery, or cultural experiences, renting a car in Shasta County provides you with the flexibility to enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Shasta County

  • Midsize: This car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and space, making it an ideal choice for couples or families looking to explore Shasta County while managing their luggage effortlessly.
  • Compact: The compact car is a versatile choice that also fits 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is great for solo travelers, couples, or families who appreciate efficiency and ease of parking, especially in busier areas of Shasta County. Its smaller size offers flexibility without sacrificing comfort.
  • Economy: Ideal for solo travelers or couples, the economy car accommodates 5 travelers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those who prioritize cost-effectiveness while enjoying the freedom to explore Shasta County. It’s a practical choice that ensures you can navigate the area without a hefty price tag.

Where to stay in Shasta County

  • Redding: Redding is a vibrant city that offers a rich blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the iconic Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park, which are both within close proximity to the city center. Redding is also a gateway to national and state parks, making it an ideal base for nature enthusiasts. With a variety of nearby food and drink options, including local breweries and wineries, Redding is perfect for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
  • Lakehead: Lakehead is a charming city that draws couples and outdoor lovers looking for romance and stunning landscapes. Surrounded by beautiful lakes and national parks, visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing and exploring the Lake Shasta Caverns. The serene environment makes it a perfect retreat for those wanting to unwind and connect with nature. Lakehead also offers delightful winery and brewery options, enhancing the overall experience for travelers interested in local flavors and scenic views.
  • Shasta Lake: Shasta Lake is renowned for its picturesque settings and romantic ambiance, making it an excellent choice for couples and outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of Shasta Lake and visit landmarks like Shasta Dam. The area provides opportunities for recreational activities, including golf and body treatments, ensuring a relaxing getaway. With local wineries and breweries nearby, Shasta Lake is a wonderful destination for travelers looking to indulge in scenic beauty and delightful local cuisine.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Shasta County

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect match for your travel needs.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a broader selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most cost-effective option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also 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 justify the 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 provides peace of mind in the event of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking 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 Shasta County

The best value period to rent a car in Shasta County is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. Moving into March, prices tend to rise, but demand remains lower compared to other months. April through June generally see average prices and demand, while July is the highest demand month, making it more expensive. August continues this trend, being the most expensive month for rentals, with high demand persisting through the summer.

Find Shasta County Car Rentals

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

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


Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Shasta County?
You can find cheap car rentals in Shasta County from $12 a day with Budget's special. Car rentals for exploring Shasta County are picked up at the region's main gateway, Eureka Arcata Airport (ACV). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Redding, where rates start from $23 a day, and Lakehead. Suppliers such as Enterprise, Avis, and Budget operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Shasta County.
What are the best car rentals in Shasta County?
Car rentals across Shasta County offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Enterprise, Avis, and Budget, broadly available in the region's main cities — Redding, Lakehead, and Shingletown. The most common car classes include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Special
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
These options cater to various travel needs, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Shasta County.

What are the best car rental companies in Shasta County?
For car rentals across Shasta County, well-rated providers like Enterprise, Avis, and Budget offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Redding, Lakehead, and Shingletown. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Eureka Arcata Airport (ACV) for exploring Shasta County?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Eureka Arcata Airport (ACV) for exploring Shasta County. Providers including Enterprise, Avis, and Budget operate at the airport, with rates from around $22 a day. Eureka Arcata Airport is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Redding to Lakehead.
Can I rent a car one-way in Shasta County?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Shasta County — pick up in one city, such as Redding, and drop-off in another, like Lakehead, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $30 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Avis offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Shasta County?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Shasta County, including in Redding and Lakehead. Enterprise offers hybrid options from $22 a day, and Avis provides electric options from $22 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand can be high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Shasta County?
For luxury car rentals across Shasta County, Avis offers luxury 2 or 4 door cars from $104 a day, while Enterprise and Budget add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. For example, Enterprise has fullsize 2 or 4 door cars from $26 a day (and fullsize SUV from $70 a day). You'll find them in the region's main cities like Redding and Lakehead. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Shasta County.
What are the best car rentals in Shasta County for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Shasta County, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Redding to Lakehead:
  • Enterprise: midsize SUV from $34 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $54 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Avis: fullsize passenger van from $176 a day — seats up to 10 with room for 6 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Shasta County.

What are the best car rentals in Shasta County for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Shasta County for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Redding and Lakehead:
  • Economy car, from $22 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $29 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Shasta County.

What are the best car rentals in Shasta County for couples?
The best car rentals in Shasta County for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Redding and Lakehead:
  • Midsize car, from $24 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Midsize SUV, from $34 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for your trip. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Shasta County.

What are the closest airports to Shasta County for car rental pick-up?
Several airports offer car rental pick-up for Shasta County, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Eureka Arcata Airport (ACV)
  • Redding Municipal Airport (RDD)
  • Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
These give travelers flexible arrival options close to where they need to be in the region. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Shasta County by rental car?
From Shasta County, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Redding hub include:
  • Sundial Bridge, Redding, approximately 2 miles away, great for a scenic walk
  • Harris Beach, Brookings, Oregon, approximately 2 miles away, offering beautiful coastal views
  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Crescent City, approximately 8 miles away, perfect for nature lovers and families
You can also add activities such as a Lake Shasta Boat Rental or Tour for on-water fun. With cities like Lakehead also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Shasta County.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Shasta County?
In Shasta County, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Shasta County?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Shasta County. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Shasta County?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Shasta County?
Budget car rental in Shasta County can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Shasta County?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Shasta County. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Shasta County car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Shasta County?
To rent a car in Shasta County, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Shasta County car rental?
If you need to cancel your Shasta County car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

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