Are you visiting San Diego, California, and seeking a reputable and simple car rental service? Take a look at U-Save Car Rental. Our commitment to providing excellent customer service and a wide variety of high-quality car rentals sets us apart from the competition.
Whether you're traveling with family and need a large and secure car to experience the sights of San Diego, or you're a business traveler seeking speedy and trendy, U-Save has you covered. With our low price and fleet of well-maintained cars, SUVs, and vans, you can be certain that your travel needs will be met. Choose U-Save Car Rental in San Diego for a stress-free rental experience that lets you relax and enjoy your trip. Reserve your vehicle today and see the difference for yourself.
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Before you rent:
Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.
When you collect your Vehicle:
Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.
Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.
Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.
While you rent:
Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.
When you return your vehicle:
Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.
Drive on the right side of the road
USD is the local currency
Average temperatures are 50°F (10°C) - 76°F (24°C)
Car hired worked just fine, excellent attention in every location I've rented with them. So far the best experience.
Everything was perfect. Next time and every time I will choose U-Save!
A very good company and thanks to them and the staff!
Driving in San Diego is generally straightforward and relaxed, especially compared to larger cities like Los Angeles. Roads are in good condition, well signposted, and locals tend to drive courteously but quickly.
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and nearly all rental cars are automatic. Speed limits are posted in miles per hour (mph):
25–35 mph in residential and city streets
45–55 mph on larger roads and boulevards
65–70 mph on highways and interstates (like I-5, I-8, and I-805)
San Diego's freeway system is efficient but can become congested during rush hours (7–9 AM and 3:30–6:30 PM). Traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze are helpful for navigating alternate routes and avoiding delays. The city's freeway signage is clear, and GPS works reliably across the region.
Right turns on red lights are allowed unless otherwise indicated. Pedestrians have the right of way at marked and unmarked crosswalks, and jaywalking is strictly enforced downtown.
Parking is generally easier than in larger metros. Many beaches, parks, and shopping centers offer free or low-cost parking, but in areas like downtown, Hillcrest, or Pacific Beach, expect to use paid street parking, metered zones, or parking garages. Always check signage — violations can result in steep fines or towing.
Fuel stations are widely available and typically self-service. Credit and debit cards are accepted, but if you're visiting from abroad and a ZIP code is required, you can prepay inside the station with cash.
If you're driving near the U.S.–Mexico border, especially toward Tijuana, be sure to confirm with your rental company whether cross-border travel is permitted. Some agencies allow it with added insurance, while others do not.
We have a great collections of high-quality cars and vans. Whether you're looking for mini van, a large sprinter, pickup truck, SUV or even e luxury car – we got you!
Choosing the right rental vehicle depends on your travel needs, whether it’s comfort, space, or terrain capability. SUVs are great for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort and versatility, especially if you're traveling through mixed terrains or unpredictable weather.
Vans are ideal for larger groups or cargo transport, perfect for family trips or business needs. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are a practical choice for urban driving with extra passenger space, making them a great middle ground between sedans and vans.
Pickup trucks excel in handling heavy loads and rugged environments, ideal for work or outdoor adventures. If you're tackling off-road trails or harsh conditions, a 4x4 provides the traction and durability needed for a safe and reliable drive. Choosing wisely ensures a smoother and more comfortable journey.
Check our booking system to see which car types are currently available!
How far is San Diego Airport from downtown?
San Diego International Airport is conveniently located just 3 miles (5 km) from downtown San Diego. Depending on traffic, the drive takes about 10–15 minutes, making it one of the closest airports to a city center in the U.S.
Where do I pick up a rental car at San Diego Airport?
All rental car companies operate from the Consolidated Rental Car Center, located a few minutes away from the terminals. To get there, take the free Rental Car Shuttle, which departs every few minutes from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 curbside pickup zones.
How early should I arrive at SAN for my return flight?
For domestic flights, it’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure; for international flights, 3 hours. Factor in shuttle time from the Rental Car Center, which adds about 10–15 minutes.
Is there traffic between the airport and downtown?
Traffic is usually light, but during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM), roads like North Harbor Drive and I-5 can get congested. Navigation apps help avoid delays.
Are there toll roads near the airport?
There are no toll roads near SAN. However, if you plan to drive into Orange County or inland, you might encounter toll routes.
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