Santa Barbara Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Compare rent a car rates in Santa Barbara from popular car rental companies

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Enjoy maximum flexibility with penalty-free cancellation on most car rentals.

Explore Santa Barbara with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* Price found within the past 60 days. Click for updated prices.

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Lowest prices found within the past 8 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Santa Barbara?
Budget car rentals started at AU$111 per day in Santa Barbara, based on prices within the past seven days. With rates like this, we make it easy to pick up some keys and hit the road for less.
Can I rent a car from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)?
With Enterprise and Hertz just a short distance from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), getting off the plane and out onto the open road is easy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Barbara car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours before collecting the car, most prepaid bookings qualify for a refund. However, not all are eligible for this, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with your cancellation policy. Read through your itinerary for the details or click through to our Customer Service Portal to find out more.
What types of cars can I rent in Santa Barbara?
Large SUVs, cute little minis or something luxurious … Get behind the wheel of whatever you prefer! Economy is the most sought-after rental car category in Santa Barbara. Zippy, with good mileage and easy to park, these wheels make navigating bustling city streets enjoyable. Maybe the best part? They’re easy on the budget. That means you’ll have more money to splash on other things, like seeing as much of this exciting destination as possible.
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Barbara?
Once you’ve covered all the fabulous attractions in Santa Barbara, there’s a lot more to explore in the region. Collect the keys to a rental car, stow your bags in the trunk and get going. We’ve come up with some road trips we think you’ll love:

  • Make tracks to Anaheim for an excellent sightseeing adventure. Approximately 177 kilometres from Santa Barbara, it’s home to loads of great sights such as Disneyland® Resort.
  • Your next stop? Make it Los Angeles, which is around 137 kilometres away. Universal Studios Hollywood is one local draw card you really shouldn’t miss.
  • Get out into nature and take in the serenity at Balboa Park. It’s about 306 kilometres from Santa Barbara.

Why should I rent a Santa Barbara car with Expedia?
Expedia is the perfect place to book a set of wheels. With suppliers in Santa Barbara to select from, we search far and wide to bring you unbeatable deals. Score big savings with our member prices and exclusive offers, and earn rewards with each booking you make. Save even more when you bundle your bookings into a Santa Barbara holiday package. Car rentals, hotels, flights, activities — Expedia has everything you need in one place.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
Nabbing an awesome deal on your Santa Barbara rental car is a piece of cake with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add some details and compare the offers from leading brands. Why not add flights and hotels to your booking? You’ll get access to even bigger savings when you create a holiday package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara rules state drivers must be 21 and over to rent a car. However, young drivers can expect an extra charge and tighter home conditions. Most providers impose a young renter fee on top of the usual car rental rate. This helps cover the higher risk of damage or accident. While many car categories (like economy and compact) are available to young motorists, restrictions usually apply to premium and specialty vehicles.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
The main requirements are a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the same name. Many car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may be asked to provide proof of other coverage if you choose to opt out. Make sure you check with your home agency to avoid any hassles.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Barbara?
The two lowest daily prices offered in Santa Barbara within the past seven days were AU$111 and AU$117. How’s that for an awesome deal? These rates were available on Expedia, with a home starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Barbara?
Whether you have plans to stick around Santa Barbara or journey beyond, it’s easy to reserve a long-term holiday home with Expedia. Enter your trip information and pick-up/drop-off locations and we’ll find you amazing long-term car rental deals.
Where can I find a Santa Barbara car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Santa Barbara outlets will rent cars to drivers under 25 years of age, and others won’t. Age policies differ between suppliers, so you’ll have to do your homework. Also, find out if there are additional costs. Some outlets will pass on a surcharge to young drivers between 21 and 24. Be sure to read through the terms and conditions to avoid any nasty surprises.
Can I drive in Santa Barbara with my current driver's license?
If you don’t have a license issued in the U.S, then you might need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before renting a car in the U.S. If you find that an IDP is required for you to drive in the U.S., know that you’ll also have to show your current valid driver’s license and your passport or other form of ID. Lastly, your credit card used to rent the vehicle must match the name on your driver’s license and passport in order to finalize your car rental. Other things you should know about rental cars in the U.S. Are:

  • Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in many states to rent a car, although in some places, the minimum age is 21 years. We recommend checking local rules and regulations, and with the car rental company before you travel to understand all the terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the fine print before you leave the lot so you can avoid any unnecessary fees. When renting a car in the United States, you usually can’t cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, use car ferries or traverse certain types of rugged terrain with your home. Please read all the rules and regulations before booking!

Information on Car Rentals

 
Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
 
Car Rental Suppliers Available:
 
Today's Best Car Rental Offer:
AU$111
 
Second Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$117
 
Third Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$118
 
Airport to hotel transportation:
Airport Transportation