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Top destinations to rent a car in San Diego County

A coastal area with buildings on a hillside overlooking the ocean.
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San Diego

San Diego

What you need to know for your San Diego County car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in San Diego County

Renting a car in San Diego County is a popular choice for tourists seeking freedom and flexibility to explore the region at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as LEGOLAND® California in Carlsbad, which is ideal for family experiences, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Mission Bay and Mission Beach, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. The convenience of a car allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans, making it especially appealing for families or groups.

Additionally, you can discover various destinations within San Diego County, including the vibrant city of San Diego featuring Balboa Park and the artistic California Center For The Arts in Escondido. A rental car facilitates effortless travel to these locations, helping you make the most of your stay while exploring the diverse offerings of the region. Whether you are planning to enjoy beach days or outdoor adventures, having your own vehicle enhances your experience in San Diego County.

Most popular car rentals in San Diego County

  • Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride and the versatility needed for exploring the beautiful attractions of San Diego County at your leisure.
  • Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, and groups, the Standard SUV comfortably seats 5 travellers and provides space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle strikes a balance between size and manageability, allowing you to navigate both urban settings and scenic routes with ease.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is perfect for larger families or groups, accommodating 5 travellers with room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. With its spacious interior, the Fullsize ensures that everyone has plenty of room, making it a great choice for those planning to travel around San Diego County with larger amounts of luggage.

Where to stay in San Diego County

  • San Diego: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences, San Diego offers a vibrant beach scene. Key attractions include Mission Bay, a picturesque bay perfect for scenic views and outdoor holidays, and Mission Beach, an ideal destination for beach lovers. The area also features Balboa Park, which is a lovely private garden. Dining options abound, with nearby restaurants and wineries providing excellent food and drink choices.
  • Carlsbad: A fantastic choice for families and those seeking entertainment, Carlsbad is home to LEGOLAND® California, a popular theme park that caters to young visitors. The area boasts beautiful beaches, including Oceanside Beach and Carlsbad State Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Carlsbad also offers various resorts and shopping centres, along with a selection of restaurants and wineries to satisfy your culinary cravings.
  • Escondido: Escondido provides a blend of family fun and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the California Center for the Arts, which showcases various artistic performances, and the historic San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park. Escondido is also close to LEGOLAND® California, making it an excellent base for families. The area includes several resorts and restaurants, ensuring a delightful stay with plenty of food and drink options nearby.

10 tips to save on your car rental in San Diego 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 drives, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the ideal 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 likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to hire and easier to manoeuvre in busy 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 be unavailable. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may implement a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you evade unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should any unexpected incidents occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking 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 San Diego County

The best value period to rent a car in San Diego County is November, when prices tend to be lower and demand is moderately high. September also offers slightly low prices with average demand, making it a reasonable choice. In contrast, July is typically the most expensive month with slightly high demand, while June through August see average prices but consistent demand levels. October follows closely behind with moderately high prices and demand, adding to the busy end of the year.

When you visit San Diego 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. San Diego 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 San Diego County allows you to set your ideal itinerary without paying a fortune. Book incredible San Diego 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

Can I rent a car from San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)?
Yes, and you won't be short on choice. After you touch down and collect your luggage, simply walk to the rental car centre at the Rental Car Centre. Here you can select from fantastic companies like Nu Car Rental, Pacific and ZipCar. If you'd like some more options, see what's on offer with Hertz and EZ.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Diego County car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours in advance of pickup, the majority of reservations qualify for a total refund. However, not every one is eligible for this, so it's important to understand your policy. Look over your booking for the details or head to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
What types of cars can I rent in San Diego County?
Full-size rides, compact cars, powerful SUVs ... Hop behind the wheel of just about any kind of vehicle you like! Economy is the most commonly booked rental car category in San Diego County. Zippy, with good mileage and a piece of cake to park, these rides make touring busy city streets effortless. Maybe the best part? They're easy on the budget. That means you'll have more money to spend on other things, like discovering as much of this awesome destination as you can.
How do I find the best car rental deals in San Diego County with Expedia?
Expedia makes it simple to compare fees, offers and rental companies, and to check customer ratings. Combine your San Diego County car rental with hotel or flight bookings to make even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in San Diego County?
You need to be at least 21 to grab the keys to a rental car in San Diego County. Take note that young drivers may be restricted to renting from a few car classes, such as economy, compact and medium size. Higher age limits generally apply for specialty and premium vehicles. Many companies will also charge an additional fee for young renters. Read through the rules before hitting the book button and factor any extra fees into your budget.
What do you need to rent a car in San Diego County?
Any rental company you select will ask for these 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 will also likely be needed. Read your policy thoroughly so you know what to bring with you to the rental counter.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in San Diego County?
You can. Expedia partners with quality companies that offer long-term rentals for a wide range of cars. Head to our long-term car rental deals and explore every corner of San Diego County — or way beyond!
Where can I find a San Diego County car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a younger driver looking to rent a car in San Diego County, it'd be wise to check the terms and conditions of the car rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under the age of 25, some may not. Surcharges may apply if you're between 21 and 24 years old. To escape any unpleasant surprises at the rental counter, make sure you know what to expect.

Car Rental Information

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