Car Rentals in San Bernardino, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around San Bernardino

Renting a car in San Bernardino provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Glen Helen Raceway for motor racing excitement, the San Bernardino County Museum for cultural insights, or Lake Gregory Regional Park, just 16 km away, for scenic outdoor experiences. This convenience is particularly beneficial for families, allowing for easy luggage management and comfortable travel with children.

Additionally, a car hire enables you to explore nearby cities like Redlands, where you can enjoy the Fox Performing Arts Center and Lake Arrowhead Village Lakefront, or Fontana, which features Victoria Gardens and the Ontario Convention Center. Highland also offers attractions like Lake Gregory Regional Park. Having your own vehicle means you can create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for both business and leisure travellers. Renting a car ensures you can make the most of your time in and around San Bernardino without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Most popular car hires in San Bernardino

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car is a popular choice for travellers in San Bernardino, accommodating up to 5 passengers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for families or groups looking to explore the area comfortably. With its spacious interior, you can enjoy your journey without the hassle of cramped seating or limited luggage space, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another highly booked option in San Bernardino, perfect for those travelling with up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type strikes a balance between space and versatility, making it suitable for couples, families, or groups. Its elevated seating position provides better visibility on the road, enhancing your driving experience as you navigate the scenic routes and attractions around San Bernardino.
• Compact: The Compact car is a practical choice for solo travellers, couples, or small families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it easy to manoeuvre through urban areas and find parking, while still providing enough room for your essentials. This option is ideal for those looking for a balance of convenience and comfort during their travels in and around San Bernardino.

Top rated car suppliers in San Bernardino

• Avis: Avis operates 1 rental location in San Bernardino, providing a convenient option for travellers. Known for their reliable service, Avis offers a selection of well-maintained vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Economy cars being the most popular choices among customers. This supplier is often praised for its efficient booking process and the flexibility it offers, making it ideal for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz also has 1 rental location in San Bernardino, making it a solid choice for car hire. Their Midsize cars are particularly favoured by customers, who appreciate the comfort and spaciousness these vehicles provide. Hertz is renowned for its straightforward rental process and attentive customer service, ensuring that travellers have a pleasant experience while managing their itineraries and luggage with ease.

Where to stay in San Bernardino

• Redlands: A charming city that offers a blend of family-friendly and romantic experiences. When staying in Redlands, you'll have access to attractions like the San Bernardino County Museum, perfect for culture enthusiasts, and the Fox Performing Arts Center for a taste of the local arts scene. Enjoy nearby shopping centres and diverse dining options, including restaurants and wineries. The picturesque Lake Arrowhead Village Lakefront, known for its scenic beauty, is also within reach for those seeking outdoor romance.
• Fontana: Known for its vibrant community, Fontana provides a family-oriented atmosphere with ample recreational areas. Key highlights include the Fontana Dog Park, ideal for outdoor activities, and Victoria Gardens, a popular tourist precinct for shopping and dining. The Ontario Convention Center is also nearby, catering to business travellers. With various dining options, including local wineries, Fontana is a great base for exploring the surrounding areas while enjoying a lively city experience.
• Highland: This city is perfect for families and couples alike, offering a variety of activities from resort stays to body treatments. Notable attractions include Lake Gregory Regional Park, ideal for outdoor activities and scenic views, as well as the charming Lake Arrowhead Village Lakefront. Highland's nearby wineries provide delightful dining experiences, making it a lovely destination for relaxation and romance. The area is well-suited for nature lovers and those seeking a blend of city and outdoor experiences.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around San Bernardino

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to locate the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often allows you to obtain better rates and ensures greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more economical to hire and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-sized rentals offer a balanced option, combining affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. 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—might not be accessible. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age criteria before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous arrangement. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel policies, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in these cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Collecting your rental car from airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should any unforeseen events occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to circumvent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is essential for renting a car.