Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from San Francisco to San Diego. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
Notes: At airport location, if you are holding a foreign driver's license, please show proof of return airline flight that corresponds with your rental.
Notes: 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. 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.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 43/dayStarting from
US$ 44/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 43-US$ 333 | US$ 0 | US$ 128-US$ 638 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 54-US$ 168 | US$ 0 | US$ 158-US$ 323 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 44-US$ 205 | US$ 0 | US$ 130-US$ 395 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 44-US$ 200 | US$ 0 | US$ 132-US$ 365 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Van | US$ 111 | US$ 0 | US$ 338 | Large families, groups |
| Pickup Truck | US$ 62-US$ 77 | US$ 0 | US$ 158-US$ 229 | Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage |
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.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car before returning to avoid high refueling charges from the rental company.
Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.
Use gas stations near the drop-off location for convenience.
The average fuel price along the route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.
Maintain a consistent speed of around 60-65 mph for optimal fuel efficiency.
Ensure tire pressures are correct before starting the journey.
Minimize the use of air conditioning to save fuel.
Parking in downtown San Francisco can cost between $3-$8 per hour.
Street parking is limited and often requires permits.
Consider using parking garages for longer durations.
San Diego offers plenty of public parking spaces with hourly rates around $2-$5.
Look for parking lots near the Gaslamp Quarter for convenience.
Some street parking is free after 6 PM.
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Relax on beautiful beaches and explore ocean-side coves.
Choose the right vehicle: Consider the number of passengers and type of route to select a comfortable and efficient vehicle.
Plan stops in advance: Research and schedule stops to break up the journey and enjoy prominent attractions.
Check rental policies: Confirm one-way rental conditions and ensure there are no hidden fees.
Take safety precautions: Inspect the car before leaving and familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules.
Budget for fuel costs: Calculate approximate fuel expenses and identify fuel-efficient routes.
Use navigation tools: Have a reliable GPS or map application for accurate directions and alternate routes.
A comprehensive guide to selecting the best one-way car rental operators providing services from San Francisco to San Diego.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $$ | High | Extensive | Wide range of vehicle options , Easy online booking process , Frequent promotions |
| Avis | $$$ | Very High | Excellent | Premium and budget vehicle selection , Several pickup and drop-off locations , 24/7 customer support |
| Enterprise | $$ | High | Nationwide | Inclusive pricing with fewer hidden fees , Convenient airport locations , Flexible rental periods |
| Budget | $ | Moderate | Extensive | Affordable pricing , Easy reservation process , Reliable coverage of urban areas |
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Most rental centers in San Francisco are open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, while those in San Diego typically operate from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM daily.
In San Francisco, the rental car centers are located offsite from the main airport terminal but are accessible via shuttle.
Shuttles run every 15 minutes during operating hours, connecting terminals and rental facilities.
A one-way fee is commonly charged for returns in San Diego. Check with your rental company for the exact cost.
Book your rental in advance to secure better rates and verify the one-way return policy to avoid unexpected fees.
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