Orange County Car Rentals & Cheap Car Hire Deals

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car supplier logos

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings

Top destinations to rent a car in Orange County

A statue of a man and a mouse in front of a castle with turrets and a sign that reads "Partners".
CarsCars

Anaheim

Anaheim

What you need to know for your Orange County car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Orange County

Renting a car in Orange County is an excellent choice for those who wish to explore the region at their own pace. With a car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families or groups seeking entertainment and outdoor experiences. Key attractions such as the Disneyland® Resort and Knott's Berry Farm are easily accessible, allowing you to enjoy family-friendly adventures without the hassle of public transport.

Additionally, a rental car opens up the opportunity to visit popular destinations like Anaheim, where both Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park are located, or Newport Beach, known for its scenic piers and beautiful beaches. Laguna Beach also offers stunning spots such as Treasure Island Beach and Heisler Park, all within a comfortable driving distance. Having a car enhances your ability to explore these areas freely, ensuring a memorable trip tailored to your interests in entertainment and outdoor activities.

Most popular car rentals in Orange County

  • Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV comfortably accommodates 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for those looking to explore Orange County at their own pace.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, and groups, the Standard SUV can carry 5 passengers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option offers a balance of comfort and space, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility of your travel plans while ensuring you have room for your belongings.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car is a fantastic choice for families and groups, accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity to hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Its spacious interior ensures comfort during your travels in Orange County, making it easier to manage your luggage while enjoying your journey.

Where to stay in Orange County

  • Anaheim: Known for its family and entertainment-themed experiences, Anaheim is home to iconic attractions such as Disneyland® Resort, Knott's Berry Farm, and Disney California Adventure® Park. With nearby shopping centres and an arts centre, visitors can enjoy a blend of culture and leisure. The city also boasts a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a great base for exploring the theme parks and local landmarks.
  • Newport Beach: A fantastic destination for family and outdoor experiences, Newport Beach features stunning coastal attractions like Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier. Visitors can enjoy the sandy shores and engage in various activities such as shopping and golf. The area's vibrant dining scene includes restaurants and wineries, providing plenty of options for relaxing after a day at the beach or exploring local attractions.
  • Laguna Beach: Popular for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, Laguna Beach offers highlights like Treasure Island Beach, Thousand Steps Beach, and Heisler Park. This charming city is perfect for family outings and beach holidays, with shopping centres and boardwalks enhancing the experience. Guests can savour local cuisine at nearby restaurants and wineries, making it an ideal spot for a tranquil coastal getaway.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Orange County

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in finding 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to benefit from lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more economical to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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 accessible. 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 require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  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: 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 additional peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when making a booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
  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 Orange County

The best value period to rent a car in Orange County is March, with slightly low prices and moderately low demand. This month offers a great opportunity for those looking for a quieter experience. April and May also provide decent options, featuring average prices and demand. However, February stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderate demand, making it a busier time for rentals. July follows closely with similarly high demand and prices.

When you visit Orange County, you want to see every bit of landscape and culture at your fingertips. Yes, there is plenty to do and see in this part of the world, but public transportation can only get you so far. To see some of the most hidden gems, your own set of wheels will come in handy. Orange County car hire makes it possible to see the area on your own schedule with ease. If you hear about a restaurant tucked away at the edge of your favourite neighbourhood, it’s no problem. When you want to see a late night show or early morning sunrise off the beaten path, your car makes that possible too. Cheap car hire in Orange County allows you to set your ideal itinerary without paying a fortune. Book incredible Orange County car rental deals right here on Expedia.com.au today. Whether you want a vehicle outfitted with luxury amenities, or a hybrid car with impressive gas mileage, you can find the perfect set of wheels on Expedia. From compact cars to spacious SUVs, we have loads of options to choose from and booking is just a few clicks away.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Orange County car reservation?
Cancelling your rental car with six hours notice should allow for your money back. However, this is not always the case. It's a good idea to scan your booking details and cancellation policy. Still need help? Head over to our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in Orange County?
Bustling city streets and cramped parking spots are no problem for an economy car — the most popular rental type in Orange County. Take the wheel of one of these and negotiate traffic easily. Affordable, reliable and with excellent mileage, these small rides pack plenty of punch. But Orange County can be explored in almost any sort of rental you like. Compact, mid-size and full-size vehicles are some other options to choose from.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Orange County with Expedia?
Browse our fantastic range of rental cars, check out customer recommendations and compare prices from major suppliers. In a few easy clicks, Expedia will help you nab the best deal on your ride. Got a hotel or flight booking? Add on your Orange County car rental to save even more money.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Orange County?
Generally, the rules are 21 years and over in Orange County. It should be noted that most outlets will charge extra fees for young renters. Read the fine print before you book, as different rules may apply between rental car providers. Bear in mind that if you want to rent a specialty ride or a larger car like a premium SUV, drivers may need to be older than 21.
What do you need to rent a car in Orange County?
Generally, all that's required is a driver's licence and a credit card in the same name when collecting the keys to your vehicle. You may also need your own proof of coverage if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance policy. Rules often differ between rental outlets, so be sure to check in advance.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Orange County?
Yes, so you won't need to rebook a rental vehicle in the middle of your holiday. Click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your travel dates and reserve a ride to call your own for however long you need.
Where can I find a Orange County car rental if I am younger than 25?
The ability to rent a car if you're under 25 years in Orange County often depends on the rental company you select. Some outlets have a surcharge for young customers between 21 and 24 years old, however other companies may not have any additional fees for this age bracket. Ensure you read the terms and conditions of your prospective rental dealer to avoid extra costs when collecting your car.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Luxury, Full Size, Economy
 
Airport to Hotel Transportation:
Airport Transportation