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.
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
Starting from
| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 47-1186 | US$ 0.00-0.00 | US$ 140-686 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 121-121 | US$ 0.00-0.00 | US$ 157-234 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 51-1413 | US$ 0.00-0.00 | US$ 162-910 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 47-1137 | US$ 0.00-0.00 | US$ 140-312 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Premium | US$ 147-230 | US$ 0.00-0.00 | US$ 284-446 | Families, comfort seeker |
| Pickup Truck | US$ 1114-1115 | US$ 0.00-0.00 | US$ 213-606 | 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.
Shell - 2521 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Chevron San Diego - 4180 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103, United States
Maintain proper tire pressure to improve fuel efficiency.
Avoid aggressive driving and sudden acceleration.
Use cruise control on highways to maintain a constant speed.
Consider using parking apps to find the best rates and availability.
Parking in Santa Monica can be expensive, especially near the beach and downtown areas. Public parking structures offer hourly rates ranging from $1 to $2.
Look for early bird specials in parking garages for better rates.
San Diego offers numerous parking options, including metered street parking and public garages. Rates vary by location, with downtown areas being pricier.
Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz can help users find and reserve parking in advance.
Ensure your rental car is registered with FasTrak if you plan to use toll roads.
Use the FasTrak transponder provided by your rental company to avoid fines.
Certain highways and express lanes in California require toll payments. The I-15 Express Lanes and SR-125 in San Diego are examples.
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Plan Route Stops: Research and identify safe and enjoyable stopping points on your route.
Fuel Up Efficiently: Know major gas station chains along your drive to avoid running out of fuel in remote areas.
Understand Rental Policies: Familiarize yourself with policies on vehicle return, rental extensions, and mileage limits.
Budget for Tolls: Calculate potential toll costs for your chosen routes to avoid budget surprises.
Insurance Coverage: Check your insurance coverage details or opt for rental insurance to handle unexpected events.
Emergency Preparation: Carry a road safety kit, including a flashlight, spare tire, and first-aid supplies, for emergencies.
Introduction to selecting a reliable car rental company for your one-way trip from Santa Monica to San Diego is essential for a smooth and convenient journey. The companies listed below provide one-way rental services.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | $$ | Excellent | Wide | Extensive branch network including Santa Monica and San Diego. , Diverse vehicle selection, ranging from economy to luxury. |
| Hertz | $$$ | Excellent | Wide | User-friendly experience with online and in-person support. , High quality and well-maintained car options. |
| Avis | $$ | Good | Wide | Competitive pricing for one-way rentals. , Availability of GPS and mobile reservations. |
| Budget | $ | Good | Moderate | Affordable options for economy and compact cars. , Frequent promotions and discounts. |
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Rental centers in Santa Monica can be found on major commercial streets, whereas San Diego's rental car services are conveniently located near downtown and the airport.
Most rental centers operate between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM, with some offering 24-hour services.
In San Diego, free shuttles connect rental centers to the airport terminals every 15 minutes.
Dedicated customer support lines are available 24/7 for assistance during your rental.
Make your reservation early during peak travel seasons to secure your preferred vehicle at the best rate.
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