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Carlsbad car rentals from $44/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 Carlsbad with a pick-up date of 5/22 and drop-off date of 5/29. 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.
Thu 5/16
Thu 5/23

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Carlsbad car rental information

Pick-up locationCarlsbad
Car typesCompact, Intermediate, Passenger van
Rental locations1
Airport locations0
Popular agenciesTuro

Cheap car rentals in Carlsbad

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
Choose your dates
Compact$44/day
Intermediate$46/day
Passenger van$138/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Carlsbad

  • Carlsbad is a relatively remote city with distant attractions, such as the Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Renting cheap car rentals in Carlsbad provides a convenient and flexible mode of transport, allowing you to easily access these destinations on your schedule. Carlsbad car rentals also tend to offer a cost-effective method of transportation as opposed to using taxis, ridesharing services, or public transport.
  • Hobbs Lea County Airport (HOB) is the closest airport to Carlsbad, New Mexico. The airport is located approximately 60 miles southeast of Carlsbad. The rental car offices are located inside the airport terminal building, making it easy for visitors to them pick up and drop them off. The distance from Roswell International Air Center (ROW) is approximately 70 miles from Carlsbad. The rental car offices at ROW are conveniently located at the airport terminal, so visitors can easily pick up and drop off their vehicles. Visitors can access the rental car offices from the airport terminal on foot.
  • Driving in Carlsbad, New Mexico is relatively easy but there are some aspects you should be aware of when using cheap car rentals in Carlsbad. Large trucks and SUVs are prevalent in the Carlsbad area. Be mindful of their size, and keep a safe distance while driving, especially when traveling highways or at higher speeds. Bicycles and other slow-moving vehicles are also commonly seen on smaller roads outside the Carlsbad city limits. Be sure to give them plenty of space when passing safely.
  • Carlsbad experiences rush hour traffic during the morning and evening commutes. This usually occurs between 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 4 pm to 6 pm. Traffic tends to be heavier on weekdays, particularly on major thoroughfares such as Canal Street and Pierce Street. Another challenge visitors may face when driving cheap car rentals in Carlsbad is navigating the rural and desert terrain outside the city limits. Visitors should be aware that some areas may be difficult to access, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall when roads can become muddy and slick.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Carlsbad for $53 or less
  • Book your rental car in Carlsbad at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price

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 $65 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 $56.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in Carlsbad?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at {0} ({1}/day).

  • How much is gas price in Carlsbad?

    The average gas price in Carlsbad is $3.93 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $47 and $63, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in Carlsbad?

    Compact (Nissan Versa or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Carlsbad.

  • 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 Compact car rental cost in Carlsbad?

    A Compact car rental in Carlsbad costs $55 per day, on average.

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

    On average a rental car in Carlsbad costs $453 per week ($65 per day).

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

    On average a rental car in Carlsbad costs $1,940 per month ($65 per day).

  • 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 1 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?

    An intermediate SUV is recommended for driving in Carlsbad as it provides the best balance between size and fuel economy, making it a good option for exploring the city and its surroundings. The roads in and around Carlsbad are generally well-maintained, but some areas can be hilly and rough, so an intermediate SUV is better suited for these conditions than a smaller car.

  • What’s the speed limit in Carlsbad?

    The speed limit in Carlsbad varies based on the type of road and the zone it falls under. In residential areas, the speed limit is typically 25 mph, and in school zones, it's usually 15 to 20 mph. For rural or suburban areas outside the city, the speed limit is typically around 45 to 55 mph. Major highways and interstates within the city usually have a speed limit of around 65 mph, while rural highways outside of town may have speed limits of up to 75 mph.

  • Where are the best places to park in Carlsbad?

    Most of the attractions in Carlsbad offer free parking, and street parking is typically available throughout downtown. The city also has several parking lots that are free to use, including one located near the Pecos River. There are some parking meters in the downtown area, but the rates are generally low, with most metered parking costing around $0.50 per hour. It is important to note that parking regulations are enforced in Carlsbad, NM, so be sure to follow all posted signs and laws to avoid receiving a ticket.  

Carlsbad car rental reviews and directory

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

3.0

Cheapest deal
Most popular

Cleanliness

6.0

Comfort

3.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

3.0

Value for money

4.0

2 locations in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1710 S Canal St

+1 575 234 1177

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

6601 W Carlsbad Hwy

+1 575 397 1033

Monday13:00 - 15:0019:00 - 21:00
Tuesday19:00 - 21:00
Wednesday19:00 - 21:00
Thursday19:00 - 21:00
Friday19:00 - 21:0013:00 - 15:00
Saturday19:00 - 21:00
Sunday13:00 - 15:0019:00 - 21:00

Filters

Reviews

4.0 Mediocre

Feb 2024

KAYAK
To pick up the car I had to wait over 3 hours and I didn’t even get the car that I wanted. I got one with a crack on the windshield

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Great staffs

2.0 Poor

Nov 2021

KAYAK
Not the car I requested. It was a hassle and took r than 3 hrs to even leave enterprise and poor customer service. I’ve rented there over ten times and never had them acct that way. I’m usually in and out within 10 mins

1 out of 1

National

7.2

Good

No reviews available

Best rated

One location in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

6601 W Carlsbad Hwy

+1 575 397 1033

Monday19:00 - 21:0013:00 - 15:00
Tuesday19:00 - 21:00
Wednesday19:00 - 21:00
Thursday19:00 - 21:00
Friday13:00 - 15:0019:00 - 21:00
Saturday19:00 - 21:00
Sunday13:00 - 15:0019:00 - 21:00

Filters

No reviews available

Easirent

4.7

Mediocre

No reviews available

2 locations in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

Hobbs Airport

Opening times not available

Roswell Industrial Air Center Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Avis

No score available yet

One location in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1 Jerry Smith Circle

+1 575 347 2500

Monday10:00 - 17:0023:00 - 23:45
Tuesday10:00 - 17:0023:00 - 23:45
Wednesday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00
Thursday10:00 - 17:0023:00 - 23:45
Friday10:00 - 17:0023:00 - 23:45
Saturday10:00 - 17:0023:00 - 23:45
Sunday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

7.6 Good

Jul 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Same as above

Cons:

Same as above

1 out of 1

Budget

No score available yet

One location in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1 Jerry Smith Circle

+1 575 347 4920

Monday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00
Tuesday10:00 - 17:0023:00 - 23:45
Wednesday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00
Thursday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00
Friday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00
Saturday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00
Sunday23:00 - 23:4510:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2022

KAYAK
The Budget employee who initially rented our car to us in Roswell, NM was extremely organized, efficient, and friendly. And, the return in Denver could not have gone more smoothly. The car we rented did not appear to have been cleaned from at least the previous renter. An old receipt was in the center storage, and the inside of the windshield was extremely foggy. However, no one had smoked in it, which I always consider a plus.

9.6 Wonderful

Apr 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

I was running late to pick up my rental, the agent waited a few minutes past closing time to accommodate the pick up.

10.0 Wonderful

Apr 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Learned about FastBreask - what a delightful addition! Agent was super helpful, friendly, Car was excellent!

Cons:

Not sure I like dialing-in my gear shifting - but I understand that is a new trend. Car was well worth learning the new skill, however.

2.0 Poor

Oct 2017

KAYAK

Cons:

The car broke down, flat tire. There were no insturctions to change the tire, The emergency service admitted he couldnt help me. The roadside assistance could find me to get me another car. I shouldn't incur any charges in my opinion

9.6 Wonderful

Sep 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Cathie at checkout counter.

Cons:

The Chevy Malibu was very basic: we missed many of the bells and whistles on our home vehicle.

2.8 Poor

Jul 2017

KAYAK

Cons:

Turned car in 5 days early and was still charged the same as for a one week rental. How is that possible? Because you're penalized for early returns. Didn't know this until after I turned it in. You have to keep the car for at least 4 days they said. Terrible! I just didn't know how long I was going to need it so reserved for one week but penalized for early returns. Never to budget rental again!!

1 out of 3

Hertz

No score available yet

One location in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1 Jerry Smith Circle #7

+1 575 347 2211

Monday22:30 - 23:3008:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:0022:30 - 23:30
Wednesday22:30 - 23:3008:00 - 17:00
Thursday22:30 - 23:3008:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:0022:30 - 23:30
Saturday22:30 - 23:3010:30 - 11:30
Sunday22:30 - 23:3010:30 - 11:30

Filters

Reviews

6.0 Okay

Jun 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was professional and helpful

Cons:

The cleanliness inside of the vehicle needs to be improved. Old french fries under the seat leave a stench

1 out of 1

Sunnycars

No score available yet

2 locations in Carlsbad

Show locations

Locations in Carlsbad

1 Jerry Smith Cir

Opening times not available

6601 W Carlsbad Hwy

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

24 travelers who rented a car in Carlsbad gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.7

Car rental locations in or near Carlsbad

Good to know

Most popular agency

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Most popular car type

Compact

Average price

$65/day

Good deal

$53/day

When to book a rental car in Carlsbad

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