Santa Clarita Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Clarita

Renting a car in Santa Clarita offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area's numerous attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of visiting sites like Vasques Rocks, known for its stunning scenery, and the iconic St. Francis Dam, both located in Santa Clarita. For those seeking entertainment, Six Flags Magic Mountain is just 6 km away, making it an easy drive for a fun-filled day. Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations such as Los Angeles, where you can experience Universal Studios Hollywood and Santa Monica Beach, or explore Newhall with its Placerita Canyon Nature Center, only 2 km from Santa Clarita. The Saugus neighbourhood also features attractions like Golden Valley Park. With a rental car, you're equipped to make the most of your trip, whether you're travelling with family or seeking outdoor adventures.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Clarita

• Midsize: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples or families looking to explore Santa Clarita. This car offers a balance of space and ease of handling, allowing you to navigate the area comfortably while managing your luggage with convenience.
• Fullsize: This option also accommodates 5 travellers, with capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Perfect for families or groups, the fullsize car provides ample room for passengers and their belongings, making your travel experience in and around Santa Clarita both comfortable and practical.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the compact car accommodates up to 5 travellers with room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suited for navigating Santa Clarita's streets with ease, allowing for convenient parking and lower fuel costs—perfect for the budget-conscious explorer.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Clarita

• Hertz: With 1 rental location in the Santa Clarita area, Hertz is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility during their trip. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a range of vehicles, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. This supplier is ideal for those who want a comfortable ride while exploring the attractions of Santa Clarita and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts 2 rental locations within Santa Clarita, making it a convenient option for visitors. This supplier is highly favoured for its extensive selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Mini cars being among the most popular choices. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Enterprise ensures that you can manage your luggage easily while enjoying the freedom to adjust your itinerary as needed.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With 1 rental location in the Santa Clarita area, Thrifty Car Rental is known for its competitive pricing and selection. Most travellers opt for Fullsize and Standard SUVs from this supplier, which are perfect for those needing additional space for luggage or for exploring the scenic landscapes around Santa Clarita. Thrifty's focus on value makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious adventurers.

Where to stay around Santa Clarita

• Santa Clarita: A vibrant city within Los Angeles, Santa Clarita is perfect for family and entertainment-themed experiences. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Six Flags Magic Mountain and Universal Studios Hollywood, both offering thrilling adventures for all ages. The city also features various dining options, ensuring a delightful culinary experience after a day of fun.
• Canyon Country: Located 11 km away from Santa Clarita, Canyon Country is known for its outdoor recreational areas, making it ideal for families seeking adventure. Canyon Country Park offers a refreshing urban park experience, while attractions like Six Flags Magic Mountain remain easily accessible. The local dining scene includes numerous restaurants and wineries, enhancing your stay with delicious options.
• Simi Valley: Situated 21 km from Santa Clarita, Simi Valley offers a blend of family, entertainment, and cultural experiences. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library serves as a notable landmark for those interested in history, while shopping malls provide ample retail opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy the proximity to Six Flags Magic Mountain, ensuring a variety of activities for everyone.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santa Clarita

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, Expedia's filters can assist you in locating the ideal vehicle 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 access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. 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, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most beneficial option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards as a payment method.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santa Clarita

The best value period to rent a car in and around Santa Clarita is January, when demand is low and prices are slightly low. June also presents a quiet time with slightly low prices and low demand. Mid-range months like February and May have average prices and moderate demand. However, September tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, making it a busier time for rentals. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.