San Bernardino County Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in San Bernardino County

Renting a car in San Bernardino County provides the freedom to explore the diverse attractions and stunning scenery at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and have the flexibility to create your travel plans. This is especially beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences.

Key attractions are conveniently accessible by car, such as the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, which offers rich cultural experiences, and Victoria Gardens, an ideal spot for family outings. You can also visit Calico Ghost Town to delve into local history. For those looking to enjoy nature, destinations like Big Bear Lake, with its marina and scenic views, or Lake Arrowhead, known for its beautiful village and parks, are within reach. Ontario, featuring the Ontario Convention Center and Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, is another great city to explore. Having a rental car allows you to travel comfortably between these highlights, making your visit to San Bernardino County both enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car rentals in San Bernardino County

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a great balance of comfort and space, allowing you to explore San Bernardino County with ease.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV also accommodates 5 travelers but provides room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle strikes a nice balance between capacity and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for those looking to navigate the diverse landscapes of San Bernardino County.
• Fullsize: The fullsize option is spacious enough for 5 travelers, with the capacity to hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups who need extra luggage space while enjoying the flexibility of traveling throughout San Bernardino County.

Where to stay in San Bernardino County

• Big Bear Lake: Big Bear Lake is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and outdoor experiences. It's popular for skiing and features notable attractions such as Bear Mountain and Big Bear Marina, both perfect for outdoor activities. Nearby, you can enjoy the serene Big Bear Lake, suitable for romance and relaxation. The area also offers dining options, including local restaurants and wineries, making it a well-rounded choice for visitors year-round, especially during the winter ski season.
• Ontario: Ontario is a vibrant city perfect for family and business-themed experiences. With attractions like the Ontario Convention Center and Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, it offers cultural and outdoor activities suitable for all ages. The city is also home to shopping malls and arts centers, providing plenty of options for leisure and entertainment. Enjoy nearby restaurants and wineries, making Ontario an excellent choice for both family vacations and business trips.
• San Bernardino: San Bernardino serves as a bustling metropolis with a variety of attractions for families and business travelers alike. Key points of interest include Glen Helen Raceway for motorsport enthusiasts and the San Bernardino County Museum for those interested in culture and history. The city features recreational areas and shopping centers, alongside ample dining options, which cater to diverse tastes. San Bernardino is a great base for exploring the surrounding attractions and enjoying city life.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost savings, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates fluctuate with demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you're likely to secure lower prices and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure to return the car empty in that scenario.
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 only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring 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 in San Bernardino County

The best time to rent a car in San Bernardino County is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period provides a great value for travelers. Following this, March and April see average prices and demand, making them decent options as well. However, June through August can be more expensive, with prices and demand both rising during the peak summer months. Meanwhile, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.