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San Marcos car rentals from $30/day

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a car rental in San Marcos with a pick-up date of 5/3 and drop-off date of 5/10. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
Sat 5/4
Sat 5/11

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Cheap car rentals in San Marcos

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
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Economy$42/day
Intermediate$32/day
Standard$47/day
Full-size$47/day
Minivan$39/day
Premium$40/day
Luxury$43/day
Pickup truck$50/day
Premium SUV$98/day
Supplier choice$30/day
Intermediate SUV$34/day
Compact SUV$34/day
Standard SUV$38/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in San Marcos

  • Getting a vehicle from a car rental in San Marcos offers several advantages over using buses or trains. With a rental car, you will have a significant level of accessibility and flexibility. You'll have the freedom to explore the city as you please without being restricted by fixed schedules or routes. This flexibility is beneficial when touring the city's multiple attractions, including San Marcos Premium Outlets, Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park, and The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment. In addition, a rental car allows you to save time by avoiding crowded trains or buses. A rental car also enables you to carry more luggage or items, making shopping trips and transporting belongings easier.
  • If you're arriving at San Marcos Regional Airport (HYI) for a tour vacation in San Marcos, you'll find accessible desks of several car rental providers at the airport's arrivals area within the terminal building. The desks are conveniently positioned near the baggage claim area, ensuring that travelers can quickly and smoothly transition from their flight to the car rental process. At the car rental desks, you'll find friendly and knowledgeable staff who will assist you with your rental needs. The desks feature different San Marcos car rentals, including Avis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, Budget, and Longhorn. Car rental providers usually provide a wide range of car options to cater to your various preferences and budgets.
  • Before driving a rental car from a car rental in San Marcos, you should familiarize yourself with the traffic rules to ensure a safe and legal ride. You should be at least 21 years old to drive a rental car on the city's roads. You should drive on the right side of the road and obey the posted speed limits, which can vary based on the road. When approaching intersections, you should yield to pedestrians and obey the traffic signals, including red lights, yellow lights, and green lights. You should wear seat belts while driving, and all passengers must also be properly restrained. Additionally, you should not use a mobile device while driving unless you have a hands-free device. You should not drink and drive in San Marcos.
  • Once you've picked up your rental car from a car rental in San Marcos, familiarize yourself with the city's rush hour travel times. Typically, rush hour occurs in the morning between 7:30 am and 9:00 am and in the evening between 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm During these periods, the roads are congested with a constant flow of vehicles, making it difficult to navigate through traffic. During these hours, the main highways and intersections in San Marcos, including Interstate 35 and Highway 123, are clogged with traffic. The congestion is caused by commuters, students, and employees, resulting in longer travel times and frequent stop-and-go situations. To ensure stress-free travel during rush hour in San Marcos, it is essential to plan your route in advance, remain aware of changing traffic conditions, and exercise caution while driving.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in San Marcos for $46 or less
  • Book your rental car in San Marcos at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Mini rental cars in San Marcos are around -112% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in San Marcos

  • How much does it cost to rent a car in San Marcos?

    On average a rental car in San Marcos costs $56 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in San Marcos found in the last 2 weeks is $37.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in San Marcos?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Hertz ($30/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($42/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Hertz 3209 N Interstate 35 Frontage 78666 (5 miles from city center).

  • How much is gas price in San Marcos?

    The average gas price in San Marcos is $3.89 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $47 and $62, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in San Marcos?

    Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in San Marcos.

  • Which car rental companies are at Austin Bergstrom airport (AUS)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Austin Bergstrom airport include Hertz, Easirent, Fox, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Budget, Alamo, Dollar, Avis, Thrifty and Fox Autorent.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Austin Bergstrom airport (AUS)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Austin Bergstrom airport to off-airport locations include Hertz, Fox, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Budget, Alamo, Dollar, Avis, Thrifty, Europcar, and Payless.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in San Marcos?

    Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

  • How much does a Mini car rental cost in San Marcos?

    A Mini car rental in San Marcos costs $169 per day, on average.

  • How much does an Economy car rental cost in San Marcos?

    An Economy car rental in San Marcos costs $44 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Special car rental cost in San Marcos?

    A Special car rental in San Marcos costs $64 per day, on average.

  • How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in San Marcos?

    On average a rental car in San Marcos costs $390 per week ($56 per day).

  • How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in San Marcos?

    On average a rental car in San Marcos costs $1,670 per month ($56 per day).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in San Marcos?

    Most car rental providers in San Marcos offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in San Marcos, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.

  • How many car agencies are operating in San Marcos?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 2 car rental agencies in San Marcos.

  • What do I need to know before booking a car rental in San Marcos?

    Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).

  • Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in San Marcos?

    KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in San Marcos so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in San Marcos?

    San Marcos features diverse terrains, including hilly regions and rural areas, so a rental car with good handling and grip, such as a compact SUV or a luxury SUV, should be advantageous. In addition, the city encounters occasional rainfall, so a vehicle with reliable braking systems and adequate safety features would be beneficial to navigate wet road conditions. Generally, a compact SUV or sedan with reliable air conditioning, good fuel efficiency, and appropriate handling capabilities would be an ideal choice.

  • What is the speed limit in San Marcos?

    San Marcos' speed limits usually range from 20 to 30 mph. In the region's urban areas with increased traffic, the speed limits vary between 30 and 45 mph. On major highways, the speed limits usually range from 55 to 75 mph, depending on the specific road.

  • Where are the best places to park in San Marcos?

    You'll find the best places to park your rental car at the downtown parking garages, including Academy Street Garage, Pleasant Street Garage, and Woods Street Garage. The parking rates at the Downtown Parking Garages usually range from $1 to $2 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of about $10.  

San Marcos car rental reviews and directory

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.4

Very good

5 reviews
Best rated

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

8.6

2 locations in San Marcos

Show locations

Locations in San Marcos

1054 Tx-46

+1 830 310 3605

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

1207 N I H 35

+1 512 396 2988

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday10:00 - 14:00

Filters

Reviews

9.6 Wonderful

Mar 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Thank you!

1 out of 1

Hertz

7.9

Cheapest deal
Most popular

Cleanliness

7.6

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.6

Value for money

7.6

3 locations in San Marcos

Show locations

Locations in San Marcos

1053 Hwy 123

+1 512 392 5394

Monday09:00 - 12:00
Tuesday09:00 - 12:00
Wednesday09:00 - 12:00
Thursday09:00 - 12:00
Friday09:00 - 12:00

3209 N Interstate 35 Frontage

+1 512 392 5394

Monday08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 16:00
Thursday08:00 - 16:00
Friday08:00 - 16:00

San Marcos - Barry Aviation

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Jun 2022

KAYAK
The car was great, and the staff was friendly and helpful. The one thing I dislike is not getting the type of car you reserve. They tried to stick me with an SUV and after some protesting I did get a compact car, though I had to wait while it was cleaned. When I reserve a small car I expect to get one. It's not the staff at the location's fault. This seems to be a problem with most car rental companies.

10.0 Wonderful

Dec 2021

KAYAK
My pick up and drop off was great. This facility is slightly hidden behind the McDonald's, but it was no big deal. I was running a little late and called and they were very kind and let me know I was good!

2.0 Poor

May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

one hour to pick upo car

8.8 Very good

Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

It was fine.

Cons:

It was fine.

9.6 Wonderful

May 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Great staff, easy pick up and drop off, the truck was brand new and very comfortable and at a great price!

Cons:

There was some broken glass in the back of the cab. Looked like the rear window broke before we rented it and it wasn't all cleaned up.

10.0 Wonderful

May 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

We found the staff very friendly and easy to work with. We would definitely use them again.

1 out of 5

Avis

No score available yet

2 locations in San Marcos

Show locations

Locations in San Marcos

176 Weldon Johnson Way

+1 512 268 2808

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

651 N Business Ih 35, Ste 810

+1 830 643 0403

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

5.2 Fair

Apr 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

The vehicle was filthy outside and inside. Cup holders had dried food in them, mud and sand on seats and human hair throughout the vehicle. My teenage sons were appalled - which is says it all. I complained and asked for another vehicle, but there weren't any in the size we needed. Disappointed.

6.8 Okay

Mar 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Car was ready on time

Cons:

Car was dirty

7.6 Good

Oct 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

The low rental rate, the ease of the rental, pick up and return.

Cons:

The car was not clean nor washed ahead of time. The attendance just took a wipe and did it while we were there. It was not a thorough cleaning as I would have liked. And it would have been nice to get a nice clean washed and vacuuumed car.

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

Service.

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

The customer service was excellent. The car was perfect for what I needed.

Cons:

The perfume thing on the air vent was too much. I put it in the glove compartment before I made it out of the parking lot. My only complaint.

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

This was my first car rental ever the car I had pick out online was no longer available but they were able to put me in something a little more roomier for the same price.

1 out of 4

Budget

No score available yet

2 locations in San Marcos

Show locations

Locations in San Marcos

176 Weldon Johnson Way

+1 512 268 2924

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

651 N Business Ih 35, Ste 810

+1 830 608 0363

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

9.2 Wonderful

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Great clean car

Cons:

IT down on pick up long wait

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Very professional staff. Easy pick up-return. Very clean vehicle. The staff was available to help with the setting of electronic devices.

10.0 Wonderful

Apr 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

they helped me workout some logistical issues with the repair shop and were very nice

10.0 Wonderful

Oct 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

From pickup to the trip and return, it was all good. The cx-5 milage was great. I am use to big vehicles and it was a nice change with this one easy at the pump.

Cons:

Didn't really have major cons on this trip with the rental. I had a very good experience.

8.0 Very good

Jun 2023

KAYAK
Fast service. Vehicle was very nice. The only suggestion I have is maybe extending the office hours to close at 6pm instead of 5pm as it would be beneficial to the customers that get off work at 5pm.

1.9 Poor

Aug 2021

KAYAK
Booked a car only to call and be told that they were sold out.

1 out of 2

Longhorn

No score available yet

One location in San Marcos

Show locations

Locations in San Marcos

14701 S Interstate 35

+1 512 361 3060

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

47 travelers who rented a car in San Marcos gave the car agency they used an average rating of 8.0

Car rental locations in or near San Marcos

Good to know

Most popular agency

Hertz

Most popular car type

Mini

Average price

$56/day

Good deal

$46/day

When to book a rental car in San Marcos

Average daily price per month
Rental car prices as pick-up date approaches