From United States
+1-8007618913
From Canada
+1-2897685366
From United Kingdom
+44-2035140670
From Japan
+81 3-4578-4029
From Argentina
+54-2657459025
From Chile
+56-226665927
From Colombia
+57-6017940262
From Mexico
+52-7449800692
From New Zealand
+64-99508740
From Peru
+51-17009061
From Switzerland
+41-445514539
From Thailand
+66-25088458
From Singapore
+65-31585008
From Australia
+61-1800-507-258
From Turkey
+90-850-390-7486
From Italy
+39-800729010
From Portugal
+351-304500663
From Brazil
+55-6140426960
From France
+33-970019487
From Israel
+972-23752163
From Germany
+49 6107 6353100
From China
+86-1089171020
From South Korea (Domestic calls only)
00308 491 0209
From other countries or regions
+1-8007618913
Live chat Email us Service Code: 2940093236
logo_img

One-Way Car Rental: Palm Springs to San Diego

Discover convenience and flexibility on your journey from Palm Springs to San Diego with our seamless one-way car rental solutions.

Can I rent a car from Palm Springs to San Diego?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Palm Springs to San Diego. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for US residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical United States national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported card types include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 25.00 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)
    • Original driving licence + Official embassy translation in English. Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter. An English translation must be provided on the back of the South Korea driver's license. The English translation should be authorized by the embassy.

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported card types include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 25.00 per day.
requirements.image

How much does renting a car from Palm Springs to San Diego cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 40/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 39/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 37-US$ 340US$ 0-US$ 243US$ 118-US$ 192Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 41-US$ 45US$ 0US$ 123-US$ 133Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 42-US$ 84US$ 0US$ 125-US$ 251Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 39-US$ 75US$ 0US$ 117-US$ 230Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 63-US$ 439US$ 0-US$ 337US$ 244-US$ 262Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 136-US$ 140US$ 0US$ 392-US$ 420Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Many car rental companies charge an additional fee for one-way rentals. Check the rental terms and confirm the fee beforehand.
  • Route Restrictions: Some rental agreements may have limitations on crossing state or international borders. Ensure your route to San Diego is permissible.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy of your rental car. Return it with a full tank or prepare to pay refueling charges.
  • Drop-off Location Hours: Confirm the operating hours of the San Diego drop-off location to avoid after-hours fees.
  • Insurance Coverage: Review the insurance options available and check if one-way trips are covered under the included insurance policy.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Your Route Wisely: Ensure you take the most efficient path to your destination, considering traffic and road conditions.
  • Look for Promotions: Search for rentals offering promotional rates for one-way trips.
  • Book in Advance: Secure your one-way rental early to ensure vehicle availability and better pricing options.
  • Check Vehicle Exchange Options: Some companies allow swapping mid-trip. Research such options for extended travels.
  • Investigate Additional Fees: Make inquiries about potential surcharges or extra costs associated with a San Diego drop-off.
  • Inspect Vehicle Beforehand: Conduct a thorough check to document pre-existing conditions before starting your journey.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel your vehicle before returning it to avoid extra charges.

Always save the last gas receipt as proof of refueling.

Refueling at stations near highways might be more expensive.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost along the route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.

Limit the use of air conditioning when driving at lower speeds.

refueling-bg
Palm Springs Parking

Street parking is available but may have time limits.

Parking garages offer long-term parking options.

Check for free parking zones around residential areas.

San Diego Parking

Downtown San Diego has multiple parking lots and garages.

Street parking is metered and may have restrictions during peak hours.

Look for Park & Ride locations for affordable parking.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMobile

SpotHero

PayByPhone

parking-bg

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Scenic Routes from Palm Springs to San Diego:
Route 1: Palm Springs to San Diego via I-10 and I-215
Interstate Route Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

This scenic route takes you through vast desert landscapes and suburban regions.

Redlands , Riverside , Escondido
Route 2: Palm Springs through Temecula to San Diego via I-15
Wine Route Around 3 hours

Travel through the Temecula Valley Wine Country before descending to the San Diego area.

Temecula , Murrieta
Route 3: Palm Springs to San Diego via CA-74
Mountain and Beach Route Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes

Drive through mountain paths and coastal views with a breathtaking perspective.

Idyllwild , Hemet , La Jolla
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Booking in Advance: Plan your vehicle rental in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Route Planning: Familiarize yourself with your planned route and alternate options.

Fuel Stops: Identify gas stations along your route to avoid running low on fuel.

Sightseeing Opportunities: Research and pre-select landmarks and scenic spots to visit along the way.

Budget Allocation: Keep track of your expenses, including gas, food, and any entry fees.

Vehicle Check: Ensure the rental car is in excellent condition with all features functioning before departure.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Choosing the right car rental company for your one-way trip from Palm Springs to San Diego is key for a smooth travel experience. Some companies specialize in one-way rentals and offer tailored services to enhance your journey.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighNationwide Extensive vehicle options including luxury and eco-friendly choices , Fast and streamlined rental processes
Enterprise$$ModerateComprehensive Great for budget-friendly options , Reliable customer service
Avis$$$HighGood Excellent loyalty program , Exclusive car models available
Budget$ModerateReasonable Affordable pricing , Special deals for one-way trips
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

companies-img1
Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

companies-img2
Best Rates

Compare across providers

companies-img3
24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

companies-img4
Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Car Rental Center Information

Operating Hours:

Car rental centers typically operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Some locations may offer 24-hour service.

Rental Car Center Location:

Located within or nearby the airport premises at Palm Springs International and San Diego International Airport.

Shuttle Availability:

Free shuttles run every 10-15 minutes between the terminal and the rental car center.

Payment Options:

Major credit cards are accepted. Some locations may accept debit cards with restrictions.

Pro Tips for Palm Springs Airport(PSP) Car Rentals

Consider booking your rental car in advance and comparing one-way fees among companies to secure the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental and is it available from Palm Springs to San Diego?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a rental vehicle at one location and return it at a different location. Most car rental companies provide this service along the route from Palm Springs to San Diego; however, additional fees might apply for the one-way drop-off.

What documents do I need to rent a car for this route?

To rent a car, you generally need a valid driver's license, a credit or debit card in the driver's name, and in some cases, proof of insurance. International travelers might also require a valid passport and an international driver's permit.

Are there any mileage limitations on one-way rentals between Palm Springs and San Diego?

Most one-way car rentals include unlimited mileage, particularly for intrastate routes such as between Palm Springs and San Diego. However, it's recommended to confirm this with your chosen rental company when booking.

How can I ensure the best rates for a one-way car rental from Palm Springs to San Diego?

To secure the best rates, you should compare prices across different rental companies, book in advance, and be flexible with your travel dates. Additionally, look for any available discounts or promotional offers.

What vehicle options are typically available for one-way rentals on this route?

Most car rental providers offer a range of vehicles, including economy, compact, SUVs, and sometimes specialty cars. Availability can vary based on the location and demand, so booking early increases your chances of getting your preferred vehicle type.

Ready to Book Your Palm Springs to San Diego Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes