Renting a Car in Los Angeles
If you’re flying into Los Angeles, there’s a good chance you will want to rent a car. While public transport is an option, renting a car is likely the most practical choice for most visitors to the sprawling Los Angeles metroplex.
Renting a car at the airport is usually the most convenient option since airport rental companies often provide the best prices. Occasionally, however, special offers can be found at off-airport locations.
It can be challenging to get a clear price comparison between airport and non-airport rates on sites like Kayak.com or Travelocity.com. For a random selection of dates, airport rates often came out cheaper, with both sites frequently offering lower prices than individual vendor sites. There was no definitive winner among Kayak, Travelocity, or Expedia, as each has the lowest rates for various rental companies or vehicles.
Where to Rent a Car
If you’re flying into one of the Los Angeles area airports, such as Burbank or Los Angeles International (LAX), you will find numerous car rental company kiosks in the arrival terminals. However, you will need to take a shuttle to pick up the car—usually from one of the nearby long-term parking lots. It’s essential to allow ample time between your flight’s arrival and your first engagement in Los Angeles to complete the rental process and travel to your destination.
If you’re seeking a more exciting vehicle, you can also rent a classic Mustang, California Roadster, or Moke electric car to cruise around the city. Most airport car rental companies provide these premium models for an additional charge.
Alternatively, compare prices on travel and rental websites for options in the Los Angeles area, but it is likely that renting at the airport will offer the best rates, especially if flights and rental cars are booked through an airport customer service representative.
Navigating and Driving in Los Angeles
Before you rent a car in Los Angeles, you should consider learning the best tricks and shortcuts for navigating this traffic-heavy city. Understanding what to expect on the road can save you considerable time and eliminate much of the frustration that first-time drivers often encounter in this California metropolis.
Traffic in Los Angeles can be particularly challenging, so you might want to familiarize yourself with LA traffic patterns. If you lack access to GPS or satellite navigation via a smartphone or portable GPS device, consider renting a car equipped with a built-in navigation system to help you navigate the busy roads.
Additionally, when calculating rental car costs, note that most hotels in Los Angeles charge a nightly parking fee ranging from $10 to $40, with higher rates typically associated with more upscale hotels. You’ll also incur parking costs at most attractions and upscale restaurants. Metered parking is available in commercial areas, while some neighborhood streets require residential permits. Consequently, parking expenses can accumulate quickly, potentially exceeding the rental rate each day.
