Rent a car one way from San Diego to Los Angeles

Have you heard that Southern California road trips are just ICONIC? If not, experience it by yourself with a San Diego to Los Angeles one way car rental! The best part is that you get the freedom to travel on your own schedule without the hassle of returning the vehicle to the same pickup location.

We have covered everything you need to know, from pricing and routes to some helpful tips to help you plan this special drive!

Why choose a one way car rental from San Diego to Los Angeles?

Did it ever occur to you that why go for a one way rental? The answer is simple, it allows you to pick up a car in San Diego and drop it off in Los Angeles without having to return it. This option is ideal if your plan involves:

• You are flying into San Diego and departing from LA
• You want to avoid backtracking
• You are moving between cities in California
• You are planning this wonderful road trip along the coast

Unlike the regular round-trip, one way rentals save your precious time and let you travel on your own schedule.

San Diego to Los Angeles: Distance, drive time & route options

• Distance: ~120 miles (approx.190 kms)
• Average drive time: 2.5 to 3 hours (depends on traffic)

Where can you pick up your one way car rental in San Diego?

Traveling by air? Already staying in the city? There are convenient car rental pickup locations, making it easy to start your journey from a spot that fits your travel plans. Popular options include:

• San Diego International Airport (SAN) – We get a lot of bookings for this pickup point from travelers arriving by air. Here, you will get multiple deals from international as well as local suppliers. Some providers even extend their operating hours for the convenience of their customers.
• Downtown San Diego – This is a practical pickup location for visitors who are already staying in central hotels or arriving via the cruise port. Downtown provides easy access to I-5 and I-15, helping you get on the road quickly without airport congestion.
• La Jolla, Mission Valley & Chula Vista – These neighborhood locations are less crowded than the airport. They work well for local renters or travelers willing to make a short trip to secure better pricing.

Best Los Angeles drop-off locations for your road trip

Just like the pickup points, you get a wide selection of car rental drop-off locations! This gives you the flexibility to end your trip wherever it’s most convenient. Many suppliers allow one-way returns at the following popular spots:

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – After enjoying your road trip, if your next task is catching the flight, then the airport is the most apt drop-off location. In case you have missed out, LAX locations are well-equipped for one-way rentals and a few companies even offer an out-of-hours service on request, making returns quick & very simple.
• Downtown Los Angeles – This is a convenient option if you stay in the city center, your plan involves connecting to business districts by public transportation or want to explore nearby attractions.
• Hollywood & Burbank Airport – Consider these locations if you are headed to Hollywood, studio areas or the San Fernando Valley. In case you don’t know, Burbank Airport is a less hectic alternative to LAX.
• Santa Monica & West LA – They are the convenient spots if you are finishing your journey near the coast. These locations work well for hotel stays, beach destinations or continued travel around West Los Angeles.

How much does a San Diego to Los Angeles one way rental cost?

The prices listed below are based on a 7 day one way rental from SAN to LAX. You must remember that rental rates are not fixed and may change at any time.

Final pricing totally depends on your travel dates, vehicle type, availability, season, demand, pickup and drop-off locations & any additional services or insurance that you might have selected.

For the most accurate rates, be sure to check prices based on your travel dates before booking.

• Compact/mini starts from USD 41.6 per day
• Economy cars start from USD 42.76 per day
• Full-size sedans start from USD 41.17 per day
• SUVs start from USD 34.64 per day
• Luxury cars start from USD 47.39 per day
• Convertibles start from USD 68.98 per day
• Vans/minivans start from USD 76.26 per day

Best cars for your San Diego to Los Angeles drive

The formula for a pleasant San Diego to Los Angeles drive is to choose your vehicle based on comfort, fuel efficiency, group size & travel style!

How can you save money on your San Diego to Los Angeles one way car rental?

Saving money on a one-way car rental is possible with a little planning and flexibility. All you have to do is follow these practical points to help reduce your overall rental cost:

• Booking your car as early as possible is the best way to access lower rates and a wider selection of vehicles.
• Do compare all the pickup locations before making a final decision. Non-airport locations in San Diego may offer lower prices by avoiding airport surcharges.
• If possible, be flexible with travel dates as car rental prices can vary by day of the week, season & demand. Adjusting your dates slightly may lead to better deals.
• Choose the right vehicle according to your “real” needs not because it is trending. Smaller or economy cars typically cost less and consume less fuel over the drive.
• Limit add-ons and try to get your own extras like phoneholder, infant seats, etc.
• Do not hold yourself back from finding the discounts or car rental deals on different platforms and you can even check your credit card benefits to lower the final price.

Scenic stops between San Diego and Los Angeles drive

Want to click memorable pictures or are you a social bee? You’ll be happy to know that along the way, there are plenty of scenic spots to stretch your legs, take photos & soak in Southern California’s coastline and landscapes.

You can say that your trip from San Diego to Los Angeles by car is incomplete without making a stop at these locations:

• La Jolla Cove is known stunning ocean views and playful sea lions.
• Laguna Beach has beautiful beaches, art galleries and a charming downtown.
• Huntington Beach is a famous surf spot and a classic boardwalk experience.
• Long Beach offers waterfront attractions and cultural sights, which make it perfect for a quick stop.

Travelers also ask

• Can I rent a car one way from San Diego to Los Angeles?

  Yes, most major rental companies allow one way rentals on the San Diego to Los Angeles route.

• Is there a one way fee on a San Diego to Los Angeles car rental?

  Yes, most rental companies charge a one way fee when you pick up a car in San Diego and drop it off in Los Angeles. This fee is typically included in your total rental price, so it’s important to review the breakdown before booking.

• Does one way car rental from San Diego to Los Angeles include unlimited mileage?

  Yes, most suppliers include unlimited mileage in a one way car rental from San Diego to Los Angeles but always confirm with the rental company before booking.