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Effortless One-Way Car Rentals from Tijuana to Mexicali

Discover seamless car rental options for your trip from Tijuana to Mexicali.

Can I rent a car from Tijuana to Mexicali?

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

Documents required for MX residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical United States or Mexico national photo ID.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements.

    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.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. XpCard and DcCard are also supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur an additional fee, such as US$ 7.00 per day or US$ 11.60 per day, depending on the rental terms.
  • 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). Please note that an IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version). An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.

    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 cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. XpCard and DcCard are also supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur an additional fee, such as US$ 7.00 per day or US$ 11.60 per day, depending on the rental terms.
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How much does renting a car from Tijuana to Mexicali 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$ 55/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 92/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 148-US$ 174US$ 0-US$ 120US$ 165-US$ 234Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 188US$ 0US$ 285Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 171-US$ 322US$ 0-US$ 120US$ 275-US$ 719Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 244-US$ 326US$ 0-US$ 120US$ 464-US$ 735Large families, groups

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Verify any extra fees for picking up in one city and dropping off in another.
  • Cross-Border Rental Restrictions: Ensure the car rental allows crossing state or country borders as per your travel plans.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy: check if you need to return the car with a full tank or if it’s pre-paid.
  • Vehicle Condition Checklist: Inspect the rental car for any damages before undertaking your journey.
  • Early and Late Drop-Off Policies: Review policies on time, as early or late returns might incur additional fees.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Drop-Off Locations: Choose a drop-off location convenient to public transport or close to your accommodation in Mexicali.
  • Book Early to Save More: Reserve your one-way rental car early to avail discounts and ensure availability.
  • Double-Check Travel Essentials: Carry all necessary documents like driver's license, rental agreement, and identification.
  • Confirm GPS or Internet Access: Ensure your vehicle has navigation tools or leave with your route mapped out.
  • Keep Contact Information Handy: Have the rental company’s contact details readily available for any emergencies.
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 to the same level as when picked up to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Refueling at stations away from highways often provides lower prices.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost in Mexicali is approximately $5.20 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Limit air conditioning usage to conserve fuel.

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Tijuana Parking

Parking costs range from $2 to $5 per hour in central Tijuana.

Secure parking lots are available near the border crossing.

Consider using parking apps to reserve a spot in advance.

Mexicali Parking

Parking in Mexicali averages $1 to $3 per hour.

Street parking is available but may require a permit in some areas.

Look for parking lots near the city center for convenience.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMe

SpotHero

BestParking

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Notable Routes Between Tijuana and Mexicali:
Coastal Highway Drive
Scenic route 2 hours 50 minutes

Drive along the scenic Pacific coastline, passing through charming towns and picturesque views.

Rosarito , Puerto Nuevo , Ensenada
Direct Border Route
Direct route 2 hours 10 minutes

A quick and direct route through the highways connecting Tijuana with Mexicali.

Tecate , La Rumorosa
Mountain Trail Adventure
Adventure route 3 hours 15 minutes

Explore the mountainous areas with challenging terrains and stunning vistas.

Sierra de Juárez , Laguna Hanson
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Plan Your Route: Use GPS navigation or reliable maps to ensure a smooth journey and avoid getting lost.

Fuel Up Before Travel: Make sure your vehicle is fueled up as there might be long stretches without gas stations.

Check Rental Conditions: Review rental policies for any extra charges for one-way trips or border crossing.

Stay Flexible with Time: Allow extra time for rest and exploring interesting stops along the route.

Ensure Safety: Be aware of local traffic rules and drive safely, especially in mountain or desert areas.

Verify Documents: Carry necessary documents like rental agreements, identification, and insurance.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Budget Rent-a-Car$$4/55/5 Affordable rates , Wide availability across Mexico , Flexible rental terms
Hertz Car Rental$$$5/54/5 Premium vehicles , Excellent customer service , Quick vehicle pick-up and drop-off
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$4/54/5 Good value for money , Well-maintained vehicles , Easy reservation system
Avis Car Rental$$4/55/5 Wide vehicle range , Frequent discounts and deals , Loyalty program
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 Centers in Tijuana and Mexicali

Operating Hours:

Tijuana rental centers: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Mexicali rental centers: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Locations:

Multiple centers available in both cities, including at airports and major city hubs

Shuttle Frequency:

Shuttles between airport and rental locations run every 20 minutes

Rental Car Options:

Compact, economy, SUVs, and premium vehicles available

Pro Tips for Tijuana Airport(TIJ) Car Rentals

For the best deals, make a reservation in advance and confirm with the rental company regarding one-way fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the one-way car rental options available on the Tijuana to Mexicali route?

Various car rental companies offer one-way services along this route. It’s advisable to check for availability and pricing with companies such as Hertz, Alamo, or Budget.

Is there an additional fee for one-way car rentals?

One-way rentals often include an additional fee, referred to as a drop-off or one-way fee. The amount can vary depending on the rental company and vehicle type.

Can I return the rental car in Mexicali outside of working hours?

Many rental agencies allow vehicle drop-offs outside business hours. Confirm this option with your chosen provider before departure.

What documents are required to rent a car for this route?

You will typically need a valid driver’s license, a credit card in your name, and proof of identity such as a passport. Some providers may also require additional documentation for international travelers.

Are there specific insurance requirements for one-way car rentals in Mexico?

Yes, liability insurance is mandatory in Mexico, and rental companies usually provide options to add comprehensive coverage. Review the insurance details carefully when booking.

Ready to Book Your Tijuana to Mexicali Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ