What to know before you book here
Mexico is the rule to check
Driving a US rental into Mexico is prohibited by most suppliers, and the ones that permit it require prior arrangement and separate Mexican insurance. If Tijuana or Baja is anywhere in your plan, say so before we book rather than discovering the restriction at the border.
Convertibles are seasonal here too
The coast road is the reason most people want one, and fleets thin out outside summer. Book early or stay flexible on the exact model.
Parking near the beaches
La Jolla, Pacific Beach and Coronado parking is tight in season. A compact is easier to place than a full-size SUV and usually cheaper to run.
Classes we quote most in San Diego
Compact
- 5 seats
- 2 bags
- Easy to park
One size up from economy. Noticeably better on the interstate, still small enough for old downtowns and tight garages.
What this class really means
Midsize sedan
- 5 seats
- 3 bags
- Long-drive comfort
The default American road-trip car. Comfortable at highway speed for hours, sensible on fuel, big enough for a family of four with luggage.
What this class really means
Compact SUV
- 5 seats
- 3 bags
- Higher seating
The most requested class in the US. Higher seating position, more usable boot, and all-wheel drive on many models.
What this class really means
Convertible
- 4 seats
- 1–2 bags
- Seasonal fleet
For coastal drives — Pacific Coast Highway, the Overseas Highway, the Blue Ridge Parkway.
What this class really meansOn terminal logistics. Counter locations, shuttle arrangements and opening hours at San Diego International Airport are set by the airport and the rental suppliers and do change. Your agent confirms the current pickup instructions for your specific supplier and booking in writing before you travel, rather than relying on anything printed on a website.
Quote a San Diego rental
An agent will compare the suppliers at SAN for your dates and send the all-in total.