Palm Desert Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Palm Desert

Renting a car in Palm Desert provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and travellers with luggage, as a rental car allows for easy management of belongings and flexible travel plans. You can conveniently visit key attractions such as The Lakes Country Club, Civic Center Park, and the Palm Desert Cross, all located within the area. Additionally, with a rental car, you can easily venture to nearby cities like Indian Wells, just 4 km away, where you can enjoy the Vintage Club and various golf courses. Rancho Mirage, located 7 km from Palm Desert, offers sites like the Sunnylands Center and Gardens. Desert Palms, also in the vicinity, features attractions like the Palm Royale Country Club. Whether you are seeking outdoor experiences or city-themed activities, having a rental car ensures you can explore everything Palm Desert has to offer without the constraints of public transport or fixed schedules.

Most popular car rentals in Palm Desert

• Midsize SUV: The most popular choice among travellers, the midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 people and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility during their trip in and around Palm Desert. With ample room for passengers and luggage, it allows for easy mobility and a relaxed driving experience.
• Compact: A great option for those who value efficiency, the compact car can also accommodate up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This choice is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families who want a smaller vehicle without sacrificing comfort. The compact size makes it easy to navigate through the city while providing flexibility for your travel plans.
• Economy: The economy car is a practical selection for cost-conscious travellers. Accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for 2 medium suitcases, this option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families. Its fuel efficiency makes it an economical choice for exploring Palm Desert, allowing you to enjoy your trip without overspending on fuel.

Top rated car suppliers in Palm Desert

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers in Palm Desert, with 2 convenient rental locations in the area. Known for its friendly service, the company has earned an overall rating of 7 out of 10. Customers appreciate the well-maintained and clean vehicles available. The most booked cars with Enterprise are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, making it an excellent option for those looking for comfort and space during their travels.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 1 rental location in Palm Desert and is recognized for its friendly service. This supplier is a great option for visitors seeking a straightforward rental experience. The most popular choices among customers are the Midsize SUV and Compact vehicles, providing flexibility and ease for exploring the area. Hertz's reputation for customer service adds to its appeal for tourists.
• Budget: Budget has 1 rental location conveniently situated in Palm Desert, making it accessible for travellers. This supplier is known for offering car rentals at competitive rates, with a focus on Midsize and Compact vehicles. Budget is an excellent choice for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their time in Palm Desert without breaking the bank.

Where to stay around Palm Desert

• Rancho Mirage: Located 7 km from Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage offers a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere. The area boasts luxurious resorts, golf courses like the Thunderbird Country Club, and the scenic Indian Canyon for outdoor enthusiasts. Notable attractions include the historic Sunnylands Center and Gardens, perfect for culture seekers. Dining options range from local restaurants to fine wineries, making it a well-rounded destination for relaxation and enjoyment.
• Indian Wells: Situated 4 km away from Palm Desert, Indian Wells is ideal for families and outdoor lovers. The city features exclusive country clubs and golf resorts such as the Indian Wells Golf Course and Vintage Club. Visitors can explore nearby national state parks and enjoy events at local sports facilities. With various restaurants and wineries available, Indian Wells provides a delightful mix of leisure and culinary experiences.
• La Quinta: Approximately 9 km from Palm Desert, La Quinta is known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly environment. The area is home to several prestigious golf courses, including PGA West Golf Course and Rancho La Quinta Golf Club. The local landscape, complemented by sports facilities and event venues, makes it an excellent choice for active travellers. La Quinta also offers a selection of restaurants and wineries for a complete getaway experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Palm Desert

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 added space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This option is generally the most advantageous. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Palm Desert

The best time to rent a car in and around Palm Desert is September, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. The months of May and June also offer good value, with slightly low and average demand respectively. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. February and March are busy times as well, featuring high demand and average pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	53.8°F (12.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	55.8°F (13.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
March	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
April	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	82.6°F (28.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
July	88.5°F (31.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	88.2°F (31.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly High
September	82.8°F (28.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
October	71.8°F (22.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
December	52.5°F (11.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average