Bakersfield Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bakersfield

Renting a car in and around Bakersfield gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like the Kern County Fairgrounds and The Park At River Walk, both offering great outdoor and family experiences. For adventure seekers, the Kern County Raceway Park provides thrilling motor racing opportunities.

Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to explore nearby destinations such as Buttonwillow, where you can find Buttonwillow Raceway Park, and Downtown Bakersfield, home to the Bakersfield Museum of Art and the Kern County Museum. The scenic Wheeler Ridge area also offers attractions like Tejon Ranch Commerce Center and Fort Tejon State Historic Park. This flexibility is especially beneficial for families and those with luggage, allowing for easy transportation of strollers and gear. Overall, a rental car in Bakersfield enhances your travel experience by accommodating spontaneous plans and ensuring you can visit all the sights without relying on public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Bakersfield

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle option accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The spacious interior provides comfort during your drives around Bakersfield and its surroundings, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace while easily managing your luggage.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option also accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a fantastic choice for families and groups looking for ample space and comfort. Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended stay in Bakersfield, a fullsize vehicle ensures that everyone travels together without feeling cramped.
• Compact: The compact car option is a great choice for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it easier to navigate through city streets and find parking, all while providing flexibility for your travel plans in and around Bakersfield.

Top rated car suppliers in Bakersfield

• Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations in the Bakersfield area, making it convenient for travellers seeking flexibility. Popular choices include Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which are ideal for exploring the region comfortably. Customers appreciate Budget for its affordability and straightforward rental process, ensuring a hassle-free experience for those looking to manage their luggage and itinerary effectively.
• Enterprise: With 5 rental locations in Bakersfield, Enterprise is a well-regarded option for many travellers. Customers frequently choose Midsize and Standard vehicles, which provide ample space and comfort for both individuals and families. Enterprise is praised for its exceptional customer service, including friendly staff and efficient check-in procedures, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a smooth rental experience.
• Avis: Avis has 2 rental locations in Bakersfield, offering a selection that includes Midsize and Compact cars. This supplier is known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, with many travellers highlighting the cleanliness and maintenance of their vehicles. Avis provides a convenient option for those who appreciate a well-organized rental process and a comfortable driving experience while exploring the area.

Where to stay in Bakersfield

• Buttonwillow: Located in the Bakersfield area, Buttonwillow is ideal for families and business travellers alike. It offers attractions such as the Buttonwillow Raceway Park and Kern County Raceway Park, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore local landmarks, including a theme park and film studio, while enjoying nearby dining options like wineries and restaurants. Buttonwillow is a great choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
• West Park Community: Situated around Bakersfield, West Park Community is known for its outdoor scenery and family-friendly atmosphere. Key attractions include the Kern County Fairgrounds, which hosts various events, and the Bakersfield Museum of Art, showcasing local culture. The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science is also nearby, making this neighbourhood an excellent base for exploring local arts and nature. Multiple dining options are available for visitors.
• Oleander - Sunset: This neighbourhood in Bakersfield offers a blend of entertainment and business opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the Kern County Fairgrounds and the Bakersfield Museum of Art, which provide cultural experiences. The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science is also within reach, appealing to families and culture enthusiasts. With various restaurants in the vicinity, Oleander - Sunset is a suitable spot for those looking to combine leisure and business during their stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Bakersfield

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize filters on Expedia to locate the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and have a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate 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 fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before confirming your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel, which can also be acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
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 only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bakersfield

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bakersfield is November, when prices are slightly low and demand remains average. This month is closely followed by August, which also offers slightly low prices. April can be another option, as it typically features moderately low demand, but prices stay average. However, June tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderate demand. The summer months of June and July see increased rental costs and higher demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	49.5°F (9.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	50.5°F (10.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
March	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
April	61.0°F (16.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	77.2°F (25.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
July	84.0°F (28.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	82.2°F (27.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
November	55.0°F (12.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High