San Marcos car rentals from $27/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 4/29 and drop-off date of 5/3. 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.
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San Marcos car rental information
| Pick-up location | San Marcos |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact SUV, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Luxury, Luxury SUV, Minivan, Open air all terrain, Passenger van, Pickup truck, Premium, Premium SUV, Standard, Standard SUV |
| Rental locations | 2 |
| Airport locations | 0 |
| Popular agencies | Turo, Enterprise Rent-A-Car |
Cheap car rentals in San Marcos
| Intermediate | $34/day |
| Standard | $41/day |
| Minivan | $39/day |
| Full-size SUV | $40/day |
| Premium | $31/day |
| Passenger van | $55/day |
| Luxury | $39/day |
| Pickup truck | $34/day |
| Premium SUV | $47/day |
| Compact SUV | $27/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $29/day |
| Standard SUV | $35/day |
| Open air all terrain | $40/day |
| Luxury SUV | $45/day |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in San Marcos
- Commuter trains and buses offer reliable transportation in and out of San Marcos, CA. However, they operate on fixed routes and schedules; they have specific pick-up and drop-off points. If you are on vacation in the city, get yourself a car rental in San Marcos to avoid relying on third-party transportation providers. Not only can you visit several stunning natural gems, but you can also choose when to visit them if you have a San Marcos car rental. Places worth visiting include Lake San Marcos, Carlsbad State Beach, Encinitas Beach, the San Marcos Historical Society Museum, and Leo Carrillo Ranch Historical Park.
- Many airports offer flights that will get you to San Marcos. Some of them are McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD), 8 miles; San Diego International Airport (SAN), 37 miles; and Santa Ana John Wayne-Orange County Airport (SNA), 66 miles from the city center. Getting San Marcos car rentals at the airport is the best way to leap into adventure as soon as you land. If you land at CLD, the rental counters are in the baggage claim area. If you opt for SAN, the car rental counters are in the car rental center. Free shuttle buses operate between the airport and the car rental center. Rental desks at SNA are in the baggage claim area. You’ll find Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise.
- Most roads in San Marcos are narrow. But driving in the city is manageable due to less-impatient drivers. You must remain attentive when driving your car rentals in San Marcos because it has its fair share of challenges. You'll encounter many roundabouts. Approach intersections and roundabouts cautiously. Allow enough space for visibility when negotiating corners, especially when navigating sharp corners. Many people travel the city on foot. While jaywalking is not generally a concern, drive carefully on built-up streets to keep pedestrians safe.
- Many cities in California experience dense traffic during rush hours, and San Marcos is no exception. When driving car rentals in San Marcos, plan your routes well to avoid heavy traffic. The city experiences traffic snarl-ups during peak travel hours because many residents access the city with private vehicles, leading to bumper-to-bumper traffic. Usually, the city experiences heavy traffic from 6:00 am to 9:00 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Do not drive during rush hour unless necessary.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in San Marcos for $43 or less
- Book your rental car in San Marcos at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Economy rental cars in San Marcos are around 77% 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 $54 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 $26.
What is the cheapest car rental company in San Marcos?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($41/day).
How much is gas price in San Marcos?
The average gas price in San Marcos is $3.86 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $46 and $62, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in San Marcos?
Economy (Hyundai Accent or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in San Marcos.
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, Hertz, Priceless, Airport Van, Alamo, Sixt, NU Car, Budget, Thrifty, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
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 an Economy car rental cost in San Marcos?
An Economy car rental in San Marcos costs $19 per day, on average.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in San Marcos?
A Standard car rental in San Marcos costs $24 per day, on average.
How much does a Full Size car rental cost in San Marcos?
A Full Size car rental in San Marcos costs $30 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in San Marcos?
In San Marcos, cars are most frequently rented at Fox 3355 Admiral Boland Way (28 miles from city center).
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in San Marcos?
On average a rental car in San Marcos costs $378 per week ($54 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 $1,620 per month ($54 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 a car rental in San Marcos?
Driving a smaller car is a great idea for navigation. Roads in the city are narrow, with one-way streets. A smaller San Marcos car rental can navigate these streets easily. Also, check the vehicle's safety features, interior capacity, fuel efficiency, and suitability. A smaller car also wins out when you want to stick to your budget because it is fuel efficient. If you plan to explore off-road locations, an SUV is a good option.
What is the speed limit when driving a car rental in San Marcos?
Observing the speed limit when driving car rentals in San Marcos is essential because, in addition to keeping you and other road users safe, it also saves you from trouble with the police. Unless posted otherwise, the speed limit in San Marcos is 25 mph in school zones, 30 mph in residential and business districts, 55 mph on two-lane highways, 65 mph on multi-lane highways, and 70 mph on interstates. Local speed limits are posted and are strictly enforced.
Where are the best places to park a car rental in San Marcos?
Finding a parking lot when driving car rentals in San Marcos is a manageable task due to the many options. But the best places to park are in downtown San Marcos. You can consider parking at the Pass ’N Go Smog Center, the Carlsbad Village Coaster Station, Jiffy Lube, Roadway Auto Towing, and Pep Boys. Parking charges vary from location to location. Free on-street parking is available, but be sure to check signs and understand parking terms before parking.
San Marcos car rental reviews and directory
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
9.7
Wonderful
12 reviewsCleanliness
9.3
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.3
Value for money
10.0
2 locations in San Marcos
Locations in San Marcos
175 W. Washington
+1 760 480 6998
260 S Las Posas Rd
+1 760 591 4120
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Dec 2020
Pros:
Nothing. The staff was rude. They did not have a car fir me9.6 Wonderful
Jan 2020
Pros:
Daniel at the San Marcos location was so helpful and personable. If everyone at Enterprise is like him, I will continue to use them when I need to rent a car in the future.Cons:
Nothing. Great experience.10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2018
Pros:
Convenient location! Quick Service! Warm Staff! Excellent selection!7.6 Good
Feb 2017
Pros:
The car was Perfect! Comfortable and NiceCons:
It was pricey!Alamo
8.7
Very good
1 reviewOne location in San Marcos
Locations in San Marcos
515 W 4th Ave
+1 760 747 4165
Filters
No reviews available
Hertz
No score available yet
3 locations in San Marcos
Locations in San Marcos
1545 La Mirada Drive
+1 760 471 1419
1700 Auto Parkplace
+1 760 206 7752
665 Metcalf St
+1 760 747 1612
Filters
Reviews
4.0 Mediocre
Nov 2022
4.0 Mediocre
Jun 2022
10.0 Wonderful
May 2021
Pros:
The van was amazing. The service was excellent and timely. The office is very clean. Hardly any wait.Cons:
Hard to find a street parking returning the van. Some assigned parking would help.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2021
Pros:
Helpful staffCons:
More parking at the pick up/ drop off location.3.6 Poor
Jun 2020
Cons:
I was directed to the wrong pick up location which was difficult to find and was closed. Upon calling Hertz for information and waiting for 20 minutes the individual I spoke with had poor command of the English language and gave me incorrect information. I found the alternate pick up location and was charged approximately $38 more than the quoted amount for the rental. Have yet to be refunded my security deposit. Wondering if all this is due to Hertz bankruptcy.10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2020
Pros:
Staff very friendly and never felt pushed for add onsCons:
Parking is terrible. Had to park 2 blocks away to return rental.Avis
No score available yet
One location in San Marcos
Locations in San Marcos
2040 Auto Park Way
+1 760 432 2019
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2021
Cons:
Great price and the car was great for the long trip10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2021
Pros:
The staff was excellentCons:
Nothing10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2019
Pros:
Yes, they were helpful, efficient, & friendly, no bs.Cons:
Can’t think of anything.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2019
Pros:
Staff friendly and helpful; dropoff easy.Cons:
Nothing2.0 Poor
Jan 2018
Cons:
Avis confirmed my pick-up time, but they decided to close early. Leaving me and my family stranded. Avis support said to go to San Diego airport??? Hour plus south of where we were going. Got a Taxi to LA instead. Never again Avis :(.7.2 Good
Jan 2018
Cons:
Pick up agent recorded a full tank of gas when the car actually had a half tank. Agent at drop off disputed this and customer service were originally unwilling to credit me, but came around when I became frustrated. A hiccup I could have done without, but many thanks to the customer service agent on the phone for sorting.Budget
No score available yet
One location in San Marcos
Locations in San Marcos
2040 Auto Park Way
+1 760 480 7406
Filters
Reviews
8.0 Very good
Feb 2021
Cons:
Make my reservation at earlier time10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2020
Pros:
Friendly staff, drop off easy9.2 Wonderful
Mar 2016
Pros:
Check in and out was fast, car in good conditionCons:
Car was not washed which made the view out the back window difficult10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2016
Pros:
Got a nice upgrade. Pricing is very competitive. Pick-up costed a bit more time than anticipated; drop off was within 1 minute! Very good overall.Cons:
One person doing paperwork while a line is waiting.2.0 Poor
Jun 2022
2.0 Poor
May 2022
A Plus Car & Truck
No score available yet
One location in San Marcos
Locations in San Marcos
2517 S. Santa Fe Ave. Ste. #1
760-633-3552
Filters
No reviews available
Rent-4-Less
No score available yet
One location in San Marcos
Locations in San Marcos
1830 Hacienda Drive
(760) 940 9120
Filters
No reviews available