How to find a cheap car hire deal in Los Angeles International (LAX)
Whether you need a small car for zipping through the city streets or a bigger ride for bigger plans, we'll help you find a cheap Los Angeles International rental car. Pick from options averaging 1.674 € a day and get going for less.
Daily rental prices at Los Angeles International start from just 11 €.
Staying longer in Los Angeles and want to explore beyond the tourist trail? 76 € is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Here's your inside scoop on when to book. One week in advance is your sweet spot for driving off with the best price on a LAX car hire.
At Los Angeles International, you can pick up a ride from leading rental brands such as Dollar, Thrifty and Hertz.
The coverage Dollar or another company offers for your Los Angeles International car hire can vary, so remember to go over the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will apply a surcharge for it.
Booking one-way could land you a cheaper deal on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be moved between branches. Just click 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in LAX.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Los Angeles International with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. You'll also skip the costly refueling charges rental agencies tack on.
Hit the road without tracking every mile and racking up extra fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and select 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you drive as far as you want.
Best value car hire options right now
In the number-one spot for value is this company, with average prices of 63 € a day.
Offering daily rates of around 107 €, this provider is next in line.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly 116 € a day with this supplier.
The Compact rental category is a dependable pick if you're unsure what sort of ride you need. It's also the most commonly booked car type at LAX.
Compare car hire types from Los Angeles International (LAX)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Los Angeles International rental car makes getting around affordable and hassle-free. These compact, fuel-efficient cars are great for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine comfort, fuel efficiency and space. Easy to handle in traffic and with enough space for longer drives, they work well for most trips.
Large: Long drives fly by in this LAX car hire category. Also known as full-size, they have the engine size to match the journey. The extra legroom and comfort make them a great choice for families and groups of friends.
SUV: SUVs are your four-wheel fix for wanderlust. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and country routes alike.
Van: If you need a car for rent in Los Angeles International big enough for a small crowd (and all their gear), a van has space to spare. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're just the thing for group excursions, business use or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the cost you'd have to pay if your LAX car hire is damaged or stolen. While not compulsory, it can be a real lifesaver if something goes wrong. Keep in mind that not all insurance policies are the same, so make sure you understand exactly what's included.
Upgrade your ride with nifty extras like mobile Wi-Fi or a reverse camera. These add-ons can make your drive smoother and more enjoyable when you rent a car in Los Angeles International.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a vehicle in the United States is typically 21 years old. However rules can vary by provider, so always double-check your rental company's policy to make sure you meet the requirements.
Kids coming with you? Child car seat laws vary depending on where you are, and the correct setup may depend on their weight, age and height. Confirm whether you need to add one to your LAX car rental booking.
Bring the right documents to make pick-up quick and easy. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (not a screenshot or digital version) and another form of photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If anything extra is required, you'll find it in your booking.
Driving in the United States can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the right side of the road.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's normally around 40kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways. Always go by the posted signs.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% applies in the United States. The most reliable way to be safe to drive is to avoid drinking completely.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and activities. Pay with your card when it's convenient, but carry a little cash when electronic payments aren't possible.
Drive smarter from the start
With a LAX car hire, you're the boss when it comes to where you go. If central Los Angeles is your first stop, it's around 29 kilometres northeast of the airport and a journey of about 35 minutes.
In rush hour, expect the drive from Los Angeles International to the centre to take as long as 1 hour 10 minutes.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination. Try to avoid peak travel times generally for a more relaxed drive.
You can also reserve a car hire in Los Angeles. If you don't need a vehicle as soon as you land, hold off until you're in the city and avoid paying for extra rental days.
Expand your search by exploring what's available at other Los Angeles airports. Compare the range of car hire options at Los Angeles Van Nuys.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Los Angeles International (LAX)
Before you move on, do some sightseeing around Los Angeles first. Well-known attractions like Hollywood Sign and Universal Studios Hollywood are a perfect start to your adventure.
Long Beach has to be on your itinerary if you're eager to visit The Queen Mary and Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA). This city is around 27 kilometres southeast of LAX.
Add Anaheim to your list of stops. About 48 kilometres east of the airport, head there in your Los Angeles International car hire to see top attractions like Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
Want to head even further out? Chula Vista is a fun road trip destination that's around 193 kilometres southeast of LAX. San Diego Aquatica and Chula Vista Bayfront Park are the perfect pit stops.
