San Luis Obispo Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Luis Obispo

Renting a car in San Luis Obispo provides excellent freedom and flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. This option is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor, cultural, and scenic experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary.

There are numerous attractions to visit, such as the tranquil Avila Hot Springs, perfect for wellness and relaxation, located within the San Luis Obispo area. Avila Beach, situated 13 km away, offers beautiful coastal scenery for a delightful beach experience. Additionally, you can explore the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, which showcases the local culture and heritage.

Having a car also allows for convenient trips to nearby destinations like Downtown San Luis Obispo, where you can visit local shops and the famous Ah Louis Store. The charming city of Edna, which features Pismo Beach Pier and Pismo State Beach, is also easily accessible. Overall, a rental car enhances your visit by making it simple to explore the diverse offerings of San Luis Obispo and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in San Luis Obispo

• Midsize: This car type comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. It is an excellent choice for couples or families looking to explore San Luis Obispo with ample room for both passengers and luggage. The midsize option strikes a balance between comfort and manoeuvrability, making it ideal for navigating city streets and enjoying scenic drives.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV provides seating for 5 travellers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option combines spaciousness with the capability to tackle various terrains, making it a versatile choice for those wishing to venture beyond the city centre. With a standard SUV, you can enjoy both comfort and a higher driving position for better visibility during your travels.
• Economy: Designed to accommodate up to 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases, the economy car is an excellent option for solo travellers, couples, or families. This car type is particularly appealing for those who value fuel efficiency and ease of parking while exploring San Luis Obispo. The economy option offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to enjoy your journey without the burden of excess luggage space.

Top rated car suppliers in San Luis Obispo

• Budget: Budget has established itself as one of the top car rental suppliers in San Luis Obispo, featuring two convenient rental locations in the area. This supplier is particularly popular for its Economy and Compact cars, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking efficient and cost-effective options. Customers appreciate the flexibility Budget provides, allowing them to explore San Luis Obispo and its surroundings comfortably and at their own pace.
• Avis: Avis operates a single rental location in San Luis Obispo, offering a selection of vehicles that includes Midsize SUVs and Standard cars. Known for its professional service and reliable vehicles, Avis is a great option for travellers looking for a comfortable driving experience. The availability of SUVs makes it particularly appealing for those planning to venture into more rugged terrains or travel with larger groups.

Where to stay in and around San Luis Obispo

• Avila Beach: Located 13 km from San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach is an excellent destination for those seeking outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. This charming city offers access to attractions such as the stunning Avila Beach, the Pismo Beach Pier, and the relaxing Avila Hot Springs. Visitors can enjoy local dining options at nearby restaurants and wineries, making it a perfect spot for a beach holiday and relaxation.
• Downtown San Luis Obispo: This vibrant neighbourhood is the cultural heart of San Luis Obispo, ideal for families and those interested in local history. With attractions like the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and the Ah Louis Store, visitors can immerse themselves in the area's rich heritage. Downtown offers various dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, making it a convenient and lively place to stay.
• Edna: Nestled in the vicinity of San Luis Obispo, Edna is perfect for travellers seeking a romantic getaway or outdoor entertainment. This village features recreational areas and golf courses, along with nearby attractions such as Pismo State Beach and the lovely Avila Hot Springs. Edna is also home to several wineries and tasting rooms, enhancing its appeal for those looking to explore the local wine scene.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Luis Obispo

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 summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to identify 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles 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 the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
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 only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are 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 essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around San Luis Obispo

The best value period to rent a car in and around San Luis Obispo is March, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. April and May also offer slightly low prices and low demand, making them good options for budget-conscious travellers. However, as summer approaches, June tends to see average prices and high demand, while July becomes the most expensive month with slightly high prices and average demand. August and September follow with average and slightly high prices, respectively.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
February	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
May	60.8°F (16.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
July	68.7°F (20.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
November	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average