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Embark on a Scenic Drive from San Diego to Denver

Discover the convenience of one-way car rentals while enjoying the beautiful landscapes from California to Colorado.

Can I rent a car from San Diego to Denver?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from San Diego to Denver. 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 Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported card attributes include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 will incur a 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. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet or Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will be also required to present a return airline ticket. Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification.

  • 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 Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported card attributes include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 will incur a fee of US$ 25.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from San Diego to Denver 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$ 136/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 137/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 331-US$ 427US$ 0-US$ 405US$ 407-US$ 500Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 334-US$ 490US$ 0-US$ 350US$ 417-US$ 481Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 331-US$ 525US$ 0-US$ 690US$ 409-US$ 1,195Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 364-US$ 506US$ 302-US$ 350US$ 507Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 433-US$ 631US$ 0-US$ 420US$ 712Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-way rental fees: Be aware of additional fees for returning the car at a different location than where it was picked up.
  • Route planning: Plan your route to include necessary stops, such as refueling stations and rest areas.
  • Refueling policies: Understand the car rental company's policy on refueling and ensure the car is returned with a full tank if required.
  • Vehicle selection: Choose a vehicle suitable for your planned trip, considering terrain and comfort.
  • Timing considerations: Account for the time needed to complete the drive and any planned stops or detours.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your route ahead of time: Research your journey to ensure a smooth trip, identifying points of interest and gas station locations.
  • Travel during daylight: Drive during daylight hours to maximize visibility and enhance safety.
  • Keep a charged phone: Ensure your phone is charged and in service to use for navigation and emergencies.
  • Check for flexible drop-off options: Some rental companies may allow flexible or extended return times, accommodating your travel schedule.
  • Understand toll road policies: Be aware of toll roads on your route and how they are managed by your rental agreement.
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 the car before returning it to avoid additional charges from the rental company.

Keep the last refueling receipt as proof of a full tank when returning the car.

Choose gas stations away from highways for better fuel prices.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost for the route is $3.80 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a consistent speed of around 65 mph for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Use the air conditioning sparingly, especially in hilly terrains.

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San Diego Parking

San Diego offers parking meters downtown with rates around $1.25 per hour.

Public parking garages are available with daily rates ranging from $10 to $25.

Consider using park-and-ride lots for cost-effective long-term parking.

Denver Parking

Denver has street parking with rates of $1 to $2 per hour depending on the area.

Parking garages downtown offer rates between $15 and $30 per day.

Use mobile apps to locate and reserve parking spots in advance.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero: Allows booking parking spaces in advance.

ParkMobile: Great for managing metered parking payments.

BestParking: Helps find affordable parking options nearby.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from San Diego to Denver:
Pacific to Rockies Adventure
Scenic Route 18 hours

Experience diverse landscapes, from California beaches to Colorado mountains.

Las Vegas, NV , Arches National Park, UT , Vail, CO
Historic Westward Journey
Historic and Cultural Route 20 hours

Follow the trails of pioneers through historic sites and cities.

Flagstaff, AZ , Santa Fe, NM , Colorado Springs, CO
Nature Lover's Route
Outdoor Adventure 21 hours

Explore incredible national parks and natural attractions along the way.

Joshua Tree, CA , Grand Canyon, AZ , Mesa Verde, CO
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Rental Car Guidelines: Ensure the car is in good condition, and know the one-way policies of the rental company.

Route Planning: Chart your journey with GPS and backup maps to cover non-service areas.

Budget Management: Plan for toll roads and refueling costs while keeping a reserve for emergencies.

Weather Considerations: Check forecasts to avoid hazardous driving or unfavorable weather conditions.

Fueling Up: Locate fuel stations along your route and understand gas price variations.

Meal and Rest Stops: Identify restaurants and rest areas for comfortable and convenient break stops.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to selecting car rental companies that offer one-way rental services from San Diego to Denver.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$$★★★★★★★★★★ Extensive network of branches nationwide , Wide variety of vehicle choices , 24/7 roadside assistance
Hertz$$★★★★★★★★ Competitive pricing , Loyalty program benefits , Clean and well-maintained vehicles
National Car Rental$$$★★★★★★★ Convenient reservation and pickup process , Popular with business travelers , Exclusive vehicle options
Budget Rent a Car$★★★★★★★ Affordable pricing , Good variety of economy cars , No hidden fees
QEEQ

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

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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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 Guide

Operating Hours:

Car rental centers typically operate from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, daily.

Location at San Diego Airport:

The Rental Car Center is consolidated and located offsite at 3355 Admiral Boland Way, with shuttle service from the airport terminals.

Shuttle Service:

Shuttles to the Rental Car Center operate every 5 minutes 24/7 from airport terminals.

Pro Tips for San Diego Airport(SAN) Car Rentals

Return your rental vehicle with a full gas tank to avoid additional charges. Check nearby gas stations near Denver for convenient refueling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to rent a car for the trip from San Diego to Denver?

To rent a car, you will generally need a valid driver's license, a credit or debit card in your name, and proof of identity such as a passport or identification card. It's always best to confirm these requirements with the rental agency prior to your trip.

Are there additional charges for a one-way rental between San Diego and Denver?

Yes, most rental agencies charge an additional fee for one-way rentals to cover the cost of returning the vehicle. This fee is often referred to as a "drop fee" and may vary by company.

Can I choose the type of vehicle for my rental?

Yes, rental agencies typically offer a range of vehicles including sedans, SUVs, trucks, and economy cars. It's recommended to reserve your preferred vehicle type in advance to ensure availability.

Is unlimited mileage included in the rental package for this route?

Many rental companies provide unlimited mileage for one-way trips, but it's important to confirm this detail when booking. Some rentals might have restrictions based on the type of vehicle or the company policies.

What is the minimum age requirement to rent a car for this route?

The minimum age to rent a car is usually 25, but some companies allow drivers as young as 21 with an additional fee. Ensure to verify the age policies of the specific rental company you choose.

Ready to Book Your San Diego to Denver Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

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