Big Bear City Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Big Bear City

Renting a car in Big Bear City offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your needs. This convenience is particularly appealing for those seeking ski and outdoor adventures. You can visit attractions like the North Shore Recreation Area, perfect for family outings, located conveniently within Big Bear City. For more adventurous experiences, Bear Mountain is only 7 km away, while Big Bear Marina, ideal for beach activities, is just 12 km from the city. Additionally, popular destinations such as Big Bear Lake, located 11 km away, and the neighbourhood of Moonridge, featuring both Bear Mountain and Big Bear Marina, are easily accessible. Sugarloaf, a city 4 km from Big Bear City, also presents opportunities for exploration. A rental car makes it simple to navigate these beautiful areas, ensuring you can experience everything Big Bear City and its surroundings have to offer without the limitations of public transportation.

Where to stay in and around Big Bear City

• Big Bear Lake: Located 11 km from Big Bear City, Big Bear Lake is ideal for those seeking adventure and outdoor experiences, especially during the winter ski season. Popular attractions include the scenic Bear Mountain and the beautiful Big Bear Lake itself, perfect for beach and romance holidays. The area features a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it a great spot for dining after a day of skiing or enjoying the lake.
• Sugarloaf: Situated 4 km from Big Bear City, Sugarloaf offers a mix of adventure and outdoor activities, particularly for skiing enthusiasts. The proximity to Bear Mountain and Big Bear Marina enhances its appeal. The local area includes shopping centres and a range of dining options, ensuring visitors can enjoy both the thrill of ski resorts and relaxing evenings at nearby restaurants.
• North Shore: This neighbourhood surrounds Big Bear City, providing access to stunning outdoor scenery and adventure opportunities. Key highlights include the North Shore Recreation Area, perfect for eco-friendly family outings, as well as Bear Mountain and Big Bear Marina. Visitors can enjoy shopping centres and a selection of local eateries, making it an excellent base for both exploration and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Big Bear City

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, use Expedia’s filters to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This option is usually the most advantageous. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.