California Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in California

The Golden Gate Bridge with a clear view of the towers and cables, spanning across the water.
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San Francisco

San Francisco

Where to stay in California

  • San Diego: A vibrant city perfect for family and outdoor experiences, San Diego offers proximity to stunning beaches and theme parks. Popular destinations include Mission Bay, great for scenic views and outdoor holidays, and Mission Beach, ideal for beach lovers. Balboa Park provides a serene escape with its beautiful gardens. Dining options abound, with various restaurants and wineries nearby, making it a delightful area for a holiday.
  • Los Angeles: Known for its entertainment and city-themed experiences, Los Angeles is a metropolitan hub. Key attractions such as Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain cater to family outings and thrill-seekers alike. For beach relaxation, Santa Monica Beach offers a lovely seaside retreat. The city is also rich in dining options, including numerous restaurants and wineries, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.
  • San Francisco: A bustling metropolis, San Francisco is ideal for family, outdoor, and city-themed adventures. Explore iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge, which is perfect for cultural enthusiasts, and enjoy the lively atmosphere at Pier 39. Golden Gate Park provides an expansive area for outdoor activities. The city features a variety of dining options, with many restaurants and wineries nearby, making it an excellent base for travellers.

10 tips to save on your car hire in California

  • Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  • Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  • Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  • Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  • Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  • Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
  • Know your payment options: Many car hire companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  • Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
  • Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that include unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  • Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is required to hire a car.

    • Renting a car in California will give you the freedom to really get to the heart of this incredible part of the world. Use your hire car to discover the best that California has to offer, from its natural beauty to its bustling towns and cities.

    With Expedia, booking you California car hire is easy. Each hire car in California option offers you competitive rates and a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations around the country to make your life easier. Book your rental car in in California with confidence through Expedia.

    At Expedia, our goal is to offer you a great variety of California car rental discounts at the best price. When hiring a car in California with Expedia, you can compare a massive range of vehicles, from compact economy cars with low fuel consumption to luxury or off-road solutions, depending on your preference. Every California hire car we feature will come fully equipped with the latest amenities and safety features to ensure your trips will be safe and comfortable.

    It has never been easier to find a rental car in California. We offer you competitive prices and up-to-date information, ensuring quality and efficiency for all our visitors, at all times. Rent a car in California today and enjoy your holiday, or get anywhere in time for your business meetings. At Expedia, we understand that travelling can be a hassle if you are not well organized, which is why we provide a variety of car types to compare and choose from for all types of travellers. In just a few clicks you can hire a car in California with Expedia.

    Car Hire Information

    Popular car types:
    		SUV, Full Size, Economy
    From the airport to your hotel:
    		Airport Transportation