* Less Tourist Traffic: Areas outside major cities and popular tourist destinations (like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Yosemite, etc.) often have lower rental car prices. Think smaller cities or towns, even those near major cities. Checking prices in Ontario, Bakersfield, or Stockton, for example, might yield lower costs than renting directly in Los Angeles.
* Off-Airport Locations: Rental car companies at airports usually charge higher prices due to fees and convenience. Picking up your rental car at an off-airport location (often accessible by public transport) can save you money.
* Smaller Rental Companies: While larger companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise are convenient, smaller, local rental companies sometimes offer more competitive pricing. Be sure to thoroughly check reviews before booking with a less-known company.
To find cheap car rentals in California:
1. Use Comparison Websites: Kayak, Expedia, Priceline, and Google Flights all have car rental comparison tools that allow you to see prices from multiple companies simultaneously. This is the best way to find the best deals.
2. Be Flexible with Dates and Pick-up/Drop-off Locations: Even shifting your rental by a day or two can significantly impact the price. Consider picking up and dropping off your car in different locations if it makes logistical sense (and doesn't add significantly to your travel time).
3. Book in Advance: Booking your car rental well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, can often secure lower rates. However, last-minute deals can sometimes pop up, too.
4. Check for Discounts: Look for discounts offered by AAA, AARP, or your credit card company.
In short, there's no magic city. Use comparison websites, be flexible, and research different locations and rental companies to find the cheapest option for *your* specific needs and travel dates.
