Orange County Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Orange County

Renting a car in Orange County offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and create a travel plan that suits your schedule. This is especially beneficial for families and those seeking entertainment and outdoor experiences. You can visit iconic attractions such as Disneyland® Resort and Knott's Berry Farm, both located in Anaheim, which are perfect for family outings and adventure seekers. Additionally, the scenic Huntington Beach Pier provides a lovely spot for relaxation and leisure. A rental car also allows convenient access to popular destinations like Newport Beach, where you can enjoy the Newport Beach Pier and Crystal Cove Beach, or Laguna Beach, known for its beautiful Treasure Island Beach and Heisler Park. The ability to travel between these various attractions without relying on public transport enhances your overall experience, making your stay in Orange County enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car hires in Orange County

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle type accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride and ample room for luggage, allowing you to enjoy your journey through Orange County with ease.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can comfortably seat 5 travellers and has room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between space and manoeuvrability, making it an excellent choice for exploring the attractions of Orange County while ensuring a pleasant travel experience.
• Fullsize: The fullsize vehicle is designed to accommodate 5 travellers with the flexibility to carry either up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a great option for families or groups needing extra luggage room. The fullsize car provides both comfort and practicality, ensuring you can make the most of your time in Orange County.

Where to stay in Orange County

• Anaheim: Known for its entertainment and family-friendly atmosphere, Anaheim is home to iconic attractions such as the Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park. These theme parks provide thrilling experiences for all ages. Visitors can also enjoy Knott's Berry Farm, an amusement park perfect for outdoor adventures. With shopping centres and a variety of restaurants nearby, Anaheim is an ideal base for those seeking culture and fun.
• Newport Beach: This picturesque coastal city offers a blend of outdoor and urban experiences. Newport Beach features beautiful family beaches, including the Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier, ideal for relaxing days by the ocean. The area is also known for its shopping centres and golf facilities, making it perfect for leisure activities. Crystal Cove Beach is another highlight, offering stunning scenery and a perfect beach holiday atmosphere.
• Laguna Beach: Renowned for its stunning coastal views and artistic community, Laguna Beach is a haven for outdoor and beach enthusiasts. Visitors can explore pristine beaches like Treasure Island Beach and Thousand Steps Beach, both perfect for a beach holiday. Heisler Park provides a lovely urban park experience, ideal for families and those looking to enjoy the outdoors. The local shopping centres and dining options further enhance the appeal of this charming city.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Orange County

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 the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but this may be justified by the added convenience it offers.
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 anything unexpected arise during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 November, when prices are lower and demand is minimal. September also offers slightly low prices, even though demand remains high. Other mid-range months include March and June, both of which have average prices and demand. Conversely, February tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand, making it less favourable for rentals. April sees a rise in both prices and demand, while August is the peak month for car hires.