Los Angeles Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Los Angeles

Renting a car in Los Angeles offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This is particularly beneficial for families and those seeking entertainment or city-themed experiences. You can visit attractions such as Universal Studios Hollywood, located close by, or enjoy a day at Santa Monica Beach, both of which are easily accessible by car. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is another highlight, showcasing the glitz of the city. A rental car also allows you to venture beyond the main attractions to places like Long Beach, where you can explore the Waterfront and Disneyland® Resort, or Santa Monica, home to the famous Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Additionally, Hollywood itself is a must-see destination with its iconic boulevard and attractions. By renting a car, you can create a personalised itinerary and enjoy the convenience of travelling between these diverse locations without the hassle of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in Los Angeles

• Midsize SUV: This versatile vehicle comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. It is an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Los Angeles and its surroundings. With its spacious interior, a midsize SUV offers the flexibility and comfort needed for long drives, making it perfect for those who wish to travel at their own pace.
• Fullsize: Designed for larger groups, this car type can also accommodate 5 travellers, with space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. The fullsize option is particularly well-suited for families or groups who require extra luggage capacity without sacrificing comfort. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to take advantage of the convenience of renting a car in Los Angeles.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples and families alike, the standard SUV offers ample space for up to 5 travellers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a perfect balance between size and comfort, providing a practical solution for those travelling in the Los Angeles area. Its manageable dimensions make it easy to navigate through the bustling city while ensuring enough room for passengers and their belongings.

Top rated car suppliers in Los Angeles

• Alamo Rent A Car: Known for its friendly service, Alamo Rent A Car has 4 rental locations throughout Los Angeles. This supplier is particularly popular among travellers for its spacious Midsize SUVs and premium SUV options, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and reliability as they explore the city and its surroundings.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With over 5 rental locations in the Los Angeles area, Thrifty Car Rental is a convenient choice for many visitors. This supplier is well-regarded for its Midsize SUVs and Standard vehicles, providing a solid selection for those looking to venture out and discover the diverse attractions Los Angeles has to offer.
• Budget: Budget stands out with more than 35 rental locations in Los Angeles, ensuring that you are never far from a convenient pick-up point. Renowned for its value, Budget offers a range of popular vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, catering to a variety of needs and preferences for your journey.

Where to stay in Los Angeles

• Long Beach: Long Beach is a vibrant city perfect for families and those seeking outdoor entertainment. Just a short distance from the beach, visitors can enjoy the Long Beach Waterfront, a fantastic tourist precinct ideal for family outings. Nearby Naples Island offers a charming neighbourhood atmosphere, while the renowned Disneyland® Resort, located close by, caters to entertainment enthusiasts. With plenty of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, Long Beach is an excellent choice for a fun-filled stay.
• Santa Monica: Santa Monica is a delightful coastal city that attracts families and adventure seekers alike. The famous Santa Monica Beach, a pristine location for beach holidays, is easily accessible. The iconic Santa Monica Pier provides entertainment and scenic views, while the nearby Venice Beach adds to the outdoor experience. This area is also home to a variety of dining establishments, including wineries, making it ideal for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Hollywood: Hollywood, a neighbourhood steeped in culture, is a must-visit for those interested in entertainment and the arts. The Hollywood Walk of Fame and the bustling Hollywood Boulevard are essential stops for any visitor. Universal Studios Hollywood, a nearby theme park, offers a range of attractions for families. With numerous restaurants and wineries close at hand, Hollywood combines cultural experiences with convenient dining options, making it an exciting place to stay during your Los Angeles adventure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Los Angeles

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer sun, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to achieve lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a suitable 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 apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward 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 prevent incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Los Angeles

The best value period for renting a car in Los Angeles is November, with lower prices and average demand. October and September also offer good options, as demand is slightly high but prices remain lower. February is a quieter month, making it another good time for value. However, demand tends to pick up in July, which is the most expensive month for rentals, along with June and August, when prices are slightly high and demand remains relatively steady.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
February	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Car hire in Los Angeles starts at around AU$19 per day in 2026. The cost is determined by a range of factors including the car model, rental period and the season you wish to rent it in. There may be a peak in prices during the high season, from June to August. By planning ahead and browsing Expedia’s options, you can find some of the best car rentals in Los Angeles and discover the blue water beaches, lush gardens and array of attractions.

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car rentals in Los Angeles

If you're searching for budget car hire in Los Angeles, Expedia has got you covered! Use our search bar to find the best budget-friendly offers and select the "Great deal" filter to narrow down the results. With our handy features, you can find the lowest prices for Los Angeles rental cars. If you’re a budget-conscious traveller, you can save even more money by paying in advance. To take things one step further, visit LA in the low season, from January to February. During this period, you can expect fewer crowds and better prices on Los Angeles car rental deals. If you have a coupon or discount code, you can filter the results to see participating car rental companies. This means that AARP members can score exclusive rates to keep costs low.

Best car rental companies in Los Angeles

Vehicle hire in Los Angeles is easy, especially with the abundance of reputable car providers available. You can use Expedia to find the right fit for you. Simply compare the offers from 30 companies and kickstart your Los Angeles vacation. Top picks include Hertz, Avis and Europcar. Browse Expedia’s recommended car rental companies and narrow down your search by location and brand.

Best places to rent a car in Los Angeles

If you plan to fly directly to Los Angeles, you probably want to hire a car at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). This is ideal for a hassle-free experience, as you only have to worry about getting off the plane, grabbing your car keys and going. Our rental cars in Los Angeles offer you the freedom to explore at your own pace and enhance your travel experience. Expedia’s LAX airport cars offer a stress-free booking process and there are plenty of options to choose from.

Los Angeles car rental types

Finding the best car rental deals in Los Angeles is easy on Expedia. If you’re planning an adventure-packed itinerary, an SUV car rental or a truck may be the best option. An economy car rental is the way to go if you are staying in Downtown LA as a smaller vehicle will help you zip through traffic and squeeze into tight parking lots. If you’re planning a honeymoon or romantic getaway, opting for a luxury car rental in Los Angeles could help you hit it high with Cupid’s bow.

Advice on car rental in Los Angeles

If you want to hire a car in Los Angeles, you’ll need a driver's licence and credit card that are both in the same name. You have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Los Angeles; if you’re under 25, there’s usually a surcharge applied. You can find out about the full terms, policies and conditions of Los Angeles car hire on Expedia’s detail page.

Benefits of booking a car rental in Los Angeles with Expedia

Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget car hire in Los Angeles, there are many benefits of booking with Expedia. Exploring on four wheels allows you to discover hidden gems, highlights and everything else in between. Plus, you can do it all on your own timetable! Whether you want to cruise along the coastline or zoom up through Hollywood Hills, Expedia has an option for you.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.