Palm Desert Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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Explore Palm Desert with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Palm Desert, California, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Palm Desert, California, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Palm Desert, California, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Palm Desert, California, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Palm Desert car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Palm Desert

Renting a car in Palm Desert provides the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. This convenience is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to experience the city. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as The Lakes Country Club and Civic Center Park, both offering unique experiences for visitors. The Palm Desert Cross is another interesting site to explore. Additionally, you can venture to nearby cities like Indian Wells, located 4 km away, where you can enjoy the Vintage Club and various golf courses. Rancho Mirage, just 7 km from Palm Desert, features the beautiful Sunnylands Center and Gardens, perfect for a leisurely day out. If you're in the mood for more golfing, Desert Palms is home to several clubs, including the Palm Royale Country Club. Rent a car to manage your luggage effortlessly and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to maximise your time and enjoy the diverse attractions that this region has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Palm Desert

  • Compact: The Compact car option is a fantastic choice for those travelling in smaller groups. With space for up to 5 travellers and the ability to carry 3 medium suitcases, it is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. This car type offers a practical and economical way to navigate Palm Desert, allowing you to explore the area comfortably while enjoying the flexibility that comes with having your own vehicle.
  • Midsize: For those needing a bit more room, the Midsize car is an excellent option. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and has the capacity for 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for couples or families with more luggage. This option strikes a balance between space and comfort, ensuring you can travel around Palm Desert with ease and convenience.
  • Economy: The Economy car is perfect for travellers looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing comfort. It can comfortably seat up to 5 travellers and holds up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families who appreciate a compact vehicle that is easy to park and efficient on fuel while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Palm Desert.

Top rated car suppliers in Palm Desert

  • Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Palm Desert, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Customers frequently opt for the Standard car model, which is well-suited for various driving needs. The supplier is recognised for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, enabling visitors to explore the area at their leisure. With Budget, you can expect a reliable service that caters to your flexibility while travelling.
  • Hertz: Hertz also has 1 rental location in Palm Desert, offering an excellent option for those looking to rent a vehicle. The most popular choice among customers is the Economy car, ideal for navigating the city and surrounding attractions efficiently. Hertz is appreciated for its well-maintained fleet and user-friendly rental experience, ensuring that your journey through Palm Desert is enjoyable and hassle-free.

Where to stay around Palm Desert

  • Rancho Mirage: Located 7 km from Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage offers a delightful blend of romantic and family experiences. Visitors can indulge in luxurious resorts and rejuvenating body treatments. Key attractions include the historic Sunnylands Center and Gardens, perfect for cultural exploration, and the Thunderbird Country Club for golf enthusiasts. Additionally, Indian Canyon provides stunning outdoor scenery, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers. The city also boasts a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries.
  • Indian Wells: Situated 4 km from Palm Desert, Indian Wells is known for its outdoor and family-friendly activities. The city features excellent golf courses such as the Vintage Club and Indian Wells Golf Course, catering to avid golfers. Nearby, the national state park offers breathtaking landscapes for those who appreciate nature. With a selection of restaurants and wineries, Indian Wells provides a charming environment for dining and relaxation while exploring the area.
  • La Quinta: La Quinta is located 9 km from Palm Desert and is an excellent destination for outdoor sports and family activities. The city is renowned for its golf courses, including the PGA West Golf Course and the Rancho La Quinta Golf Club, attracting golf lovers from afar. With access to stunning national park scenery and sports facilities, La Quinta promises a range of activities for all. Dining options abound, with various restaurants and wineries available for visitors to enjoy.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Palm Desert

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller vehicles are more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—may not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always confirm the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the expense.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively 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 any unexpected incidents arise during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is required to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Palm Desert

The best time to rent a car in Palm Desert is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is average. May also offers slightly lower prices with steady demand, making it a good choice. June through July tends to see average prices and low demand, providing a quieter rental experience. However, August is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January53.8°F (12.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighSlightly Low
February55.8°F (13.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighAverage
March60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighAverage
April67.3°F (19.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May72.9°F (22.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June82.6°F (28.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyLowAverage
July88.5°F (31.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyLowAverage
August88.2°F (31.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyLowSlightly High
September82.8°F (28.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October71.8°F (22.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
November60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
December52.5°F (11.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage

Information on Car Rentals

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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Palm Desert?
Within the past seven days in Palm Desert, you could have taken off in a rental car for as little as per day.
Can I rent a car from Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP)?
Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP) has lots of options within a short commute. Find a ride that suits you from Hertz, Budget, Avis, Enterprise or Alamo.
What happens if I need to cancel my Palm Desert car reservation?
Subject to your cancellation policy, you may be eligible for a refund. Many rentals give a full refund if you let us know six hours before pickup. Still have some questions? If you can't find the answer in your booking details, our Customer Service Portal is always accessible.
What types of cars can I rent in Palm Desert?
Most visitors choose economy cars in Palm Desert. Drivers love them because they're good on gas and affordable. Plus, their smaller size makes them ideal for driving around cities, where streets are crowded and parking spots are tight. But your options don't stop there. SUVs, full-size cars and compacts are up for grabs too. Whether you're hanging around Palm Desert or headed beyond, we'll have the wheels for you.
Where can I go on a road trip from Palm Desert?
Palm Desert has plenty to keep you busy, but don't limit yourself to only one place. Arrange a set of wheels and hit the road to see what else awaits in the surrounding area. Here are some places to consider:
  • You'll find Universal Studios Hollywood and many other intriguing attractions in Los Angeles. From Palm Desert, it's roughly 177 kilometres away.
  • Located 137 kilometres away, Santa Ana is also popular with wanderers. Allow time to get to Santa Ana Zoo while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love staying a while in this vibrant city.
  • Make tracks to Hoover Dam to discover some local nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just chill out in the fresh air. From Palm Desert, it's around 290 kilometres away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Palm Desert with Expedia?
Score an amazing deal with Expedia. Just choose your preferred ride, select your dates and pickup and drop-off locations, and compare offers from all the top rental brands. Save even more when you bundle your Palm Desert car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Palm Desert?
Drivers with a valid licence 21 and above can rent a vehicle in Palm Desert. While some outlets may be willing to rent to drivers younger than 21, they will add on fees. Find out what ages the young driver surcharge applies to, and associated costs, before reserving your ride. Suppliers also restrict the categories of cars available to young drivers. Higher age limits apply for specialty and luxury vehicles.
What do you need to rent a car in Palm Desert?
Most rental companies will require two things — your driver's licence and credit card. If you'd prefer to opt out of the supplier's insurance plan, proof of your own coverage may also be needed. Read your policy thoroughly so you know what to bring when it's time to collect your wheels.
What is the cheapest car rental in Palm Desert?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a rental vehicle in Palm Desert was . The next best deal was a day. 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 Palm Desert?
Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip details and then choose a ride that suits. Whether you're staying in Palm Desert or discovering beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at an amazing rate.
Where can I find a Palm Desert car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies are different between rental suppliers, so be prepared to do a little research. Found a Palm Desert outlet that does rent to drivers under the age of 25? That's great! Just be aware that extra fees often apply to drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. The fine print of each rental car you're looking at should have all the details you need.
Can I drive in Palm Desert with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a license from the U.S, then you may need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence before renting a car in the U.S. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S., be aware that you'll also have to show your current driver's license and your passport or other form of ID. Lastly, the credit card you used to rent the vehicle must match the name on your license and passport in order to finalize your car rental. Other things you should know about rental cars in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in many states in order to rent a car, although in some areas, 21 years and older is allowed. We recommend checking local regulations, as well as with the rental car company before your trip to understand all the regulations that may apply to you.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the fine print before you get behind the wheel so you can avoid any unnecessary charges. When renting a car in the U.S, you typically can't cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive on ferries or traverse rough terrain with your home. Please read the details before you book!

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