Carlsbad car rentals from $26/day

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car rental in Carlsbad with a pick-up date of 10/1 and drop-off date of 10/31. 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.
Car Rental Deals
Booking Insights
Car Rental Deals

Cheap car rentals in Carlsbad

Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.
Mazda Mazda2 car
Mazda Mazda2
or similar Small
2
2
4-5
$26/day
Ford Focus car
Ford Focus
or similar Small
4
2
4-5
$27/day
Toyota Corolla car
Toyota Corolla
or similar Medium
5
3
2/4
$29/day
Volkswagen Jetta car
Volkswagen Jetta
or similar Medium
5
3
2/4
$35/day
Toyota Camry car
Toyota Camry
or similar Large
5
2
2/4
$35/day
Chrysler Pacifica car
Chrysler Pacifica
or similar Van
5
5
4-5
$60/day
Jeep Grand Cherokee L car
Jeep Grand Cherokee L
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$52/day
Nissan Maxima car
Nissan Maxima
or similar Luxury
5
5
2/4
$40/day
Toyota Tacoma car
Toyota Tacoma
or similar Pickup truck
5
3
2/4
$45/day
BMW X5 car
BMW X5
or similar SUV
5
5
4-5
$69/day
Kia Seltos car
Kia Seltos
or similar SUV
4
2
4-5
$36/day
Toyota RAV4 car
Toyota RAV4
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$36/day
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport car
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$40/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.
Booking Insights

Good to know

Most popular agency

Most popular car type

Average price

Good deal

Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Standard
$49/day
$42/day

KAYAK’s insights & trends for Carlsbad car rentals

Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in Carlsbad with confidence.

How far in advance should you book a rental car in Carlsbad?

You should book your rental car in Carlsbad around 78 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the cheapest car rental company in Carlsbad?

In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Hertz ($25.12/day), Budget ($25.99/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($33.94/day). The cheapest rental car price was found at Hertz 6030 Avenida Encinas, Ste E (3.1 mi from city center).

What is the best rental car company in Carlsbad?

Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in Carlsbad are Enterprise Rent-A-Car (8.8, 5 reviews), Budget (6.5, 15 reviews), and Avis (5.6, 12 reviews).

What is the most popular rental car in Carlsbad?

Economy rentals (Mitsubishi Mirage or similar) are the most popular type of vehicle to rent in Carlsbad. Economy rentals in Carlsbad cost $56/day on average, though some users have found deals as low as $36/day.

What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Carlsbad?

The cheapest month to rent a car in Carlsbad is February at an average cost of $47/day. December is the most expensive month to rent a car in Carlsbad when prices are $63/day on average, which tends to be 14% above the yearly average rental price for Carlsbad.

What rental car company in Carlsbad has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Hertz each operate 3 locations in Carlsbad, more than any other rental company.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Carlsbad

  • Getting car rentals in Carlsbad is ideal as you will have the opportunity to explore most attractions in the city conveniently. For instance, you may visit the parks and museums in the city within a shorter time than the bus. In addition to exploring the city’s attractions, you can drive further to the nearby cities to marvel at what they offer. For example, the San Diego Zoo is about 33.9 miles from the Carlsbad city center and can be arrived at in about 36min using a rental car.
  • If you are heading to Carlsbad, California, and are looking for Carlsbad car rentals that are eco-friendly, you should consider getting an electric vehicle. Several car rental agencies in the area offer electric vehicles for rent. For example, Hertz offers the Chevrolet Spark and Enterprise offers the Hyundai Kona.
  • Those arriving at the Los Angeles International Airport can rent vehicles from the comfort of the airport. The airport has several car rental agencies located away from the terminals. These include Ace, Fox, Hertz, Midway, Avis, Budget, and NextCar. You can find them at the purple ‘Rent Car Shuttles’ sign on the Arrivals island next to the baggage claim area. Therefore, you can drive in any car rentals in Carlsbad and arrive at your destination on time.
  • If you need to pick up cheap car rentals in Carlsbad near the city center, you will be happy to find out that Getaround car rental agency has a branch a little less than 2 miles from the city center and Enterprise has a branch just over 2 miles from the city center on Car County Dr.
  • Carlsbad features one-way and two-way roads which traverse most parts of the city. These roads do not have regular crossing zones. Therefore, chances are you’ll meet pedestrians trying to cross the road at non-designated crossing points. When driving car rentals in Carlsbad, it is essential to have a keen eye on such occurrences to avoid encountering such pedestrians.
  • If you are looking for Carlsbad car rentals in order to explore the city and the neighboring areas, you are in luck. You can explore the beaches in Carlsbad to your heart’s desire with your car rental. You can also visit the nearby LEGOLAND, California. If you would like to explore more of this beautiful state, San Diego is just a 30-minute drive south of Carlsbad, and Los Angeles is about a 1-hour and 30-minute drive north.
  • Like many cities, Carlsbad experienced early morning and evening traffic. You’ll experience traffic from about 6.30 am to 8.30 am and 4 pm to 6.30 pm. It is advisable to avoid staying on the main streets at this time when driving your rental vehicle. Instead, consider using your GPS navigation system to help you identify less trafficked routes that will get you to your destination faster and more conveniently.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Carlsbad for $42 or less
  • Standard rental cars in Carlsbad are around 58% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Carlsbad

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

    On average a rental car in Carlsbad costs $49 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 Carlsbad found in the last 2 weeks is $32.

  • Which car rental companies are at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Los Angeles airport include Ace, Midway, Priceless, MEXRENTACAR, FlexWays, Dollar, Payless, NextCar, Global Rent A Car and Routes Car & Truck Rentals.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Los Angeles airport to off-airport locations include Midway, Priceless, Dollar, Payless, NU Car, Economy Rent a Car, Thrifty, U-Save, Budget, and Hertz.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in Carlsbad?

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

  • How much does a Standard car rental cost in Carlsbad?

    A Standard car rental in Carlsbad costs $91 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Premium car rental cost in Carlsbad?

    A Premium car rental in Carlsbad costs $85 per day, on average.

  • How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Carlsbad?

    An Intermediate car rental in Carlsbad costs $55 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular rental car location in Carlsbad?

    In Carlsbad, cars are most frequently rented at Avis 2040 Auto Park Way (14 miles from city center).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in Carlsbad?

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in Carlsbad?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 6 car rental agencies in Carlsbad.

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

    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 Carlsbad?

    KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad?

    Carlsbad has well-tarmacked roads that have wide lanes. If you are thinking of securing a rental car, consider getting a standard sedan. The vehicle is well equipped to be driven within most destinations in Carlsbad. The vehicle can easily fit in most parking lots, making it convenient for us within the city. Those who desire to access off-roads within the region can opt for SUVs. Some roads leading to residential places and parks can be unpaved, making them a problem for low-suspension vehicles. Therefore, with a standard sedan, you are good to go when it comes to accessing most parts of Carlsbad.

  • What are the main roads I should know about when driving cheap car rentals in Carlsbad, California?

    When driving through Carlsbad, it is good to keep in mind that Highway 5, also known as the San Diego Expressway, runs north-south through the city, so this is most likely the road you will use when driving to either San Diego or Los Angeles. Ronald-Packard Highway runs east-west, so if you are looking to go inland, this is what you will take. If you are heading toward the coast, Ronald-Packard Highway turns into Vista Way and leads you toward the beach.

  • What’s the speed limit of Carlsbad?

    When driving Carlsbad car rentals, it is essential to note the speed limit of the road you are cruising on. The maximum speed limit on Carlsbad main roads is 65 mph, with two-way lanes having a speed limit of 55 mph. Also, consider maintaining a speed of 15 mph in alleys and rail crossings and 25 mph in business districts and residential areas. In addition, consider being on the lookout for speed cameras on most of Carlsbad’s traffic signals to avoid being ticketed.

  • What documents do I need in order to pick up my Carlsbad car rentals?

    Those travelers picking up Carlsbad car rentals will need to show a valid driver’s license in good standing as well as a credit card in your name with sufficient funds. If you are renting a car in Carlsbad and you are not a US citizen, you will also need to show another form of ID, such as a valid passport. If your driver’s license from your native country is not in English, you will also need an International Driver’s Permit. In California, you need to be at least 21 years old to rent a car, but most agencies charge drivers under the age of 25 an extra Young Driver fee.

  • Where are the best places to park in Carlsbad?

    Finding a spot to park your vehicle in Carlsbad is not too difficult. There are multiple on-street parking and free public lots. Most of these parking lots have a 3-hour free parking policy which is ideal for most drivers in the city. You may park your vehicle in the following public lots: Coaster Station Parking Lot, Washington Parking Lot, South State Parking Lot, Roosevelt North Parking Lot, and Roosevelt South Parking Lot. The city has strict rules against those drivers that park their vehicles on handicapped spots despite not being disabled or close to fire hydrants. Therefore, when in your rental car, consider parking it only at designated spots that are favorable.  

Carlsbad car rental reviews and directory

 
All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car rental booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.8

Cleanliness

9.1

Comfort

9.1

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.2

Value for money

8.5

3 locations in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

5245 Car Country Dr

+1 760 931 1111

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

6050 Avenida Encinas

+1 760 918 0883

Monday00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday00:00 - 00:00
Thursday00:00 - 00:00
Friday00:00 - 00:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

875 S. Coast Highway

+1 760 966 9090

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Brian, Mar 2024

Premium SUV

KAYAK
Great car. Fast efficient friendly service both pick up and drop off.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jan 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Everything was good

1 out of 2

Budget

Cleanliness

7.0

Comfort

7.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.9

Value for money

6.8

2 locations in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1771 Oceanside Boulevard Ste B

+1 760 757 5799

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

2198 Palomar Airport Road

+1 760 931 2469

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jan 2025

Intermediate

KAYAK
Horrible experience. Horrible service. Car not available. Staff rude. Made promises than didn’t keep. Given incorrect information. Agent at counter called the corporate office “liars.”

10.0 Wonderful

Bill, Mar 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
Car was reserved only 30 minutes in advance. I got a decent car that was ready for immediate pickup. Friendly staff person too.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Oct 2022

KAYAK
We reserved the car with kayak and the company didn’t have cars available. I think kayak could’ve done a better job in this transaction. Kayak allowed us to make a reservation with the car company without cars available. Very poor communication and costumer service. The car company was nice to make a phone call to us to tell us they didn’t have cars at their location and couldn’t understand why kayak would allow this.

2.0 Poor

Kurt, Oct 2022

KAYAK
The entire experience was a complete waste of time. I prepaid $208 on budget.com for my entire reservation it was going to be 4 days in a Fullsize sedan. I completed the online check in to speed up the process at the counter just like the pop up prompted me to do so. A few hours later I am at the local budget location and I go to the counter and the representative takes my ID and Debit card says it runs a soft credit check or some BS and he says oh we can't rent to you the check came back bad. I have already paid for this rental I tell him so why would I be charged on the website prior to this the full amount of the rental and then be denied after I am already checked in online before coming to the store all on the exact same debit card. I then become aware that if I use a credit card for the $200 deposit there is no credit check. Oh well then that's a no brainer and I hand over my capital one credit card he takes it and then as he is about to swipe it, he abruptly stops and says oh that's right we can't rent to you at all. Once youre denied from the credit check you're blacklisted essentially from renting at budget. I have never used budget before in my life and I will never use there services again. I have tried to call the 800 number the representative at the store gave me however the phone representative was unable to locate my reservation with the confirmation code I was emailed or with the code given by the counter representative. I am about to head back down this morning to get a rental somewhere else and I will be following up with BUDGET about these issues and will update the review once this happens.

2.0 Poor

Olga, May 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Rathe was $134 and was changed $356

8.0 Very good

albert, Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

COUNTER GUY WAS FRIENDLY, DROP OFF SUPER EASY AND QUICK

Cons:

ON PICK UP COUNTER GUY WAS VERY BUSY, COULD HAVE USED SECOND PERSON

1 out of 5

Avis

Cleanliness

7.1

Comfort

6.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.8

Value for money

6.3

2 locations in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1771 Oceanside Boulevard Ste B

+1 760 757 9929

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

2198 Palomar Airport Road

+1 760 931 1393

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jul 2025

Intermediate

KAYAK
Drop off in Butte Montana Avis office was horrible. Staff was rude and unprofessional.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Oct 2022

KAYAK
So many things went wrong with pickup. Including the employee leaving before we even saw the car. Locked the door. Gone. So we were stuck with a “luxury upgrade” with one bald tire and stinking of smoke. After the automated customer service loophole I contacted another Avis location who called the owner to meet us.

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was friendly and efficent

Cons:

The car had a horrible smoke odor that permeated all of my luggage.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Oct 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Easy pick up and drop off with free parking patrolled by security on site

1 out of 4

Dollar

5.5

Fair

One location in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1816-c Oceanside Blvd

+1 760 722 7031

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

No reviews available

Thrifty

5.5

Fair

One location in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1816-c Oceanside Boulevard

+1 760 722 7031

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

No reviews available

Hertz

No score available yet

3 locations in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1816-c Oceanside Blvd.

+1 760 722 7031

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

2100 Palomar Airport Rd

+1 760 930 0123

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

6030 Avenida Encinas, Ste E

+1 760 579 0072

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

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Julie, Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Sebastian was knowledgeable, polite and helpful. The pick-up location was convenient.

Cons:

additional clerks

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Pick up took an hour at off airport location. Drop off at Reno Airport was just fine.

Cons:

Pick up -- especially because we had gone to location and confirmed the pickup for Monday morning early. Only one staff person for 4 customers.

10.0 Wonderful

Tim, Dec 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Turn signal was not functioning

1 out of 2

EZ Van

No score available yet

2 locations in Carlsbad

Locations in Carlsbad

235 South Tremont St

+1 866 735 8267

Opening times not available

6511 Avenida Encinas

+1 866 735 8267

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Zeeba Rent-A-Van

No score available yet

2 locations in Carlsbad

Locations in Carlsbad

4901 El Camino Real Carlsbad, Ca ,charleston,sc,us

+1 800 761 8913

Opening times not available

800 Grand Avenue

+1 800 940 9332

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

38 travelers who rented a car in Carlsbad gave the car agency they used an average rating of 5.5

Car rental locations in or near Carlsbad

Everything you need to know for your car rental in Carlsbad

Carlsbad car rental information

Pick-up locationCarlsbad
Car typesCompact, Compact SUV, Economy, Full-size, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Minivan, Pickup truck, Premium, Premium SUV, Standard, Standard SUV
Rental locations9
Airport locations4
Popular agenciesTuro, Avis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Budget

Not what you’re looking for? Find thousands of other hotels, cheap flight tickets, car rentals and package deals with KAYAK.