San Bernardino Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Bernardino

Renting a car in San Bernardino offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, managing your luggage becomes effortless, allowing for spontaneous adventures without the constraints of public transport schedules. You can visit key attractions such as the Glen Helen Raceway, perfect for those seeking sports and adventure experiences, or immerse yourself in culture at the San Bernardino County Museum. For outdoor lovers, Lake Gregory Regional Park, located 16 km away, provides stunning scenery and romantic spots to enjoy. Additionally, the cities of Redlands, Fontana, and Highland are easily accessible, each featuring their own unique attractions like the Fox Performing Arts Center and Victoria Gardens. This convenience is especially beneficial for families, business travellers, or those looking to experience the city’s rich offerings. Whether you want to visit multiple sites in one day or take a leisurely drive through the scenic routes, renting a car in San Bernardino enhances your travel experience and allows for easy exploration of the area.

Most popular car rentals in San Bernardino

• Midsize: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers, making it an excellent choice for couples and families. With the capacity to hold up to 3 large suitcases, the midsize car offers ample space for your luggage, allowing you to explore the attractions in and around San Bernardino without any hassle. Its balanced size provides comfort while remaining manageable for city driving.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and groups, the fullsize car also accommodates 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it great for longer trips where you might need extra room for luggage. Renting a fullsize vehicle allows for a comfortable journey as you navigate the sights of San Bernardino, ensuring everyone travels with ease.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, and groups, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type provides a higher driving position and enhanced comfort, making it suitable for both urban exploration and more rugged terrains. Renting a standard SUV in San Bernardino offers flexibility and the ability to transport your belongings securely while enjoying the journey.

Top rated car suppliers in San Bernardino

• Hertz: With 3 rental locations within the San Bernardino area, Hertz provides great convenience for travellers. Known for its reliable service, the most booked cars from Hertz are Midsize and Fullsize models, catering to a variety of needs for groups and families alike. Renting from Hertz allows you to enjoy the flexibility of exploring the area at your own pace, making it a popular choice among visitors.
• Enterprise: Offering 4 rental locations in San Bernardino, Enterprise is a strong contender for anyone seeking maximum convenience during their trip. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize and Luxury vehicles, providing options that suit both budget-conscious travellers and those seeking a more premium experience. With Enterprise, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your itinerary as you explore the beautiful surroundings.
• Avis: With 2 rental locations in San Bernardino, Avis stands out for its focus on providing quality Fullsize and Midsize vehicles. Avis is a well-regarded option for those looking to enjoy a comfortable ride while navigating the attractions of the San Bernardino area. Their commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that you can confidently embark on your journey, knowing you have a reliable vehicle at your disposal.

Where to stay in San Bernardino

• Redlands: This charming city offers a delightful mix of experiences for families, couples, and those seeking a city-themed getaway. In Redlands, you can explore attractions such as the San Bernardino County Museum, perfect for cultural and family holidays, and the Fox Performing Arts Center for a taste of the arts. The vibrant shopping centres and local restaurants, including options for wine lovers, enhance your stay. The Lake Arrowhead Village Lakefront, nearby, provides breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, ideal for a romantic excursion.
• Fontana: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business appeal, Fontana features numerous shopping centres and recreational areas. Key highlights include the Fontana Dog Park, offering a great outdoor experience for families, and Victoria Gardens, a tourist precinct perfect for leisurely strolls. The Ontario Convention Center adds a cultural touch, making it suitable for both business and leisure travellers. With a range of nearby dining options, including wineries, Fontana promises an enjoyable stay.
• Highland: For a romantic or family-oriented experience, Highland is a great choice. With attractions such as Lake Gregory Regional Park and Lake Gregory, visitors can enjoy beautiful lakeside scenery and outdoor activities. The abundance of resorts and campgrounds caters to various preferences, while local wineries provide excellent dining and drinking options. Highland's proximity to event venues and theme parks makes it an appealing destination for diverse interests.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Bernardino

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure more favourable rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making your reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 any unforeseen issues arise during your travels. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around San Bernardino

The best value period to rent a car in and around San Bernardino is November, when prices are lower and demand is more manageable. You may also find reasonable rates in March and September, as these months see slightly lower demand. However, May tends to be the most expensive month, with higher prices and increased demand. April and July also showcase slightly higher pricing and demand, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
February	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Average
March	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	61.2°F (16.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly High
May	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	74.1°F (23.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
July	80.4°F (26.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	81.1°F (27.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly Low
September	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
October	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Average