How to find a cheap car rental deal in Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Turn the key on your trip with a cheap Los Angeles International Airport rental car. With prices averaging $97 a day, you're on the road to better value. From economy models to full-size family cars, we'll match you with your kind of ride at your kind of price.
Daily rental prices at Los Angeles International Airport start from just $30.
Staying a little longer in Los Angeles and want to go further than the usual stops? $76 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Timing can make all the difference when it comes to finding a cheap LAX car hire. Book about one week before you travel to land the best price.
Check out the offers available with Dollar, Thrifty and Hertz. These are a few of the popular providers at Los Angeles International Airport.
Whether you book with Dollar or another supplier, be sure to check the coverage on your Los Angeles International Airport car rental. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid extra.
Booking one-way could snag you a bargain on your car rental. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between branches. Just select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in LAX.
Cut down on fuel costs by choosing a car rental in Los Angeles International Airport that offers a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect your ride with a full tank and bring it back full, so you only pay for what you use.
Want to explore more without worrying about the number of miles you clock up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and go as far as you like without the extra costs.
Best value car rental options right now
You'll get the best value deal with this company, with average prices coming in at $103 a day.
Offering daily rates of around $176, this provider lands in second place.
The third option also keeps costs reasonable. Expect to pay roughly $113 a day for one of their rentals.
The Intermediate rental category is a dependable choice if you're not quite sure which ride is right for you. It's also the most commonly booked car type at LAX.
Compare car rental types from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Small: These cheap Los Angeles International Airport rental cars may be small in size, but they're big on practicality. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're nimble, light on fuel, and just the thing for short trips.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this just-right ride is calling your name. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of interior space and fuel efficiency and are good for small families and couples.
Large: Long drives fly by in this LAX car hire category. Also known as full-size, their bigger engines are built to perform. The extra legroom and comfort make them a top choice for groups of friends and families.
SUV: SUVs are your four-wheel fix for wanderlust. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and winding backroads alike.
Van: Select this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Los Angeles International Airport that can handle the heavy stuff. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're made to carry more, whether that's equipment, luggage or a bunch of your favorite people.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers what you'd otherwise have to pay if your LAX car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, it's worth considering for extra protection. Keep in mind that insurance policies vary between providers, so make sure you understand exactly what's included.
Make your trip smoother when you rent a car in Los Angeles International Airport by adding a few handy extras. Think things like a navigation system to keep your trip on track, or reverse cameras that give you confidence when parking.
Good to know
You generally have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United States. Being younger doesn't always disqualify you — just expect some extra fees or restrictions. Check the companies' terms and conditions before booking.
Add a car seat to your LAX car rental booking if you're traveling with small kids. Rules change from one location to another, but using a child seat suited to their size and age is always the safest approach.
Come prepared and keep pick-up quick and easy. You'll generally need your physical driver's license (no copies) plus another photo ID. Bring a credit card with enough balance for the deposit too. If anything else is expected, it'll be listed in your booking.
Driving in the United States can take some adjustment if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stick to the right side of the road.
Make sure you stay within the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 25mph in urban areas and 70mph or so on highways, unless road signs indicate differently.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Because alcohol affects each person differently, it's best to skip drinks entirely so you remain legal to drive.
Drive smarter from the start
With a LAX car hire, you're in the driver's seat when it comes to where you go. If central Los Angeles is your first stop, it's around 18 miles northeast of the airport and a drive of about 35 minutes.
At peak travel times, expect the drive from Los Angeles International Airport to the center to take as long as 1 hour 10 minutes.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times for traffic in this destination. Try to avoid rush hours if you want a smoother run.
You can also book a car rental in Los Angeles. If you don't need a vehicle right after you arrive, wait until you're in the city and avoid paying for extra rental days.
You'll find car hire at other airports around Los Angeles too. For even more variety, compare the car rental options at Van Nuys Airport.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Begin with some of the standout attractions in Los Angeles, like Hollywood Sign and Universal Studios Hollywood. Whether you drive or choose a different way to get there, you'll want to see these highlights before you move on.
Long Beach should be on your to-do list if you're eager to visit The Queen Mary and Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA). This city is about 17 miles southeast of LAX.
Or collect your Los Angeles International Airport car rental and head out to Anaheim. Around 30 miles east of the airport, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park are highlights that make the drive worthwhile.
Stretch your journey and road-trip it to Chula Vista, around 120 miles southeast of LAX. Kick things off at San Diego Aquatica, then head to Chula Vista Bayfront Park.
