Santa Barbara Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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

I have a discount code
  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings

Explore Santa Barbara with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Thu, 11 Dec to Fri, 12 Dec

Midsize Elite

Telsa Short Range Model 3 or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Telsa Short Range Model 3

NZ$142

total
found 4 days ago
Midsize Elite Telsa Short Range Model 3
Sun, 14 Dec to Mon, 15 Dec

Full Size Elite Pickup Regular Cab

Ram 2500 Big Horn or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Ram 2500 Big Horn

NZ$105

total
found 1 day ago
Full Size Elite Pickup Regular Cab Ram 2500 Big Horn
Sun, 14 Dec to Mon, 15 Dec

Premium

Nissan Maxima or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nissan Maxima

NZ$111

total
found 1 day ago
Premium Nissan Maxima
Sun, 14 Dec to Mon, 15 Dec

Standard Elite SUV

Ford Explorer or similar
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Ford Explorer

NZ$142

total
found 1 day ago
Standard Elite SUV Ford Explorer
Fri, 12 Dec to Sat, 13 Dec

Luxury Elite

Genesis G80E or similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Genesis G80E

NZ$199

total
found 3 days ago
Luxury Elite Genesis G80E
Sat, 13 Dec to Sun, 14 Dec

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica or similar
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chrysler Pacifica

NZ$256

total
found 14 hours ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car hire in Santa Barbara
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 4 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Santa Barbara?
The most affordable daily rate in Santa Barbara was NZ$105 based on prices within the last seven days. Take a look at our terrific range of options, from small and affordable vehicles to cruise-in-style rides.
Can I rent a car from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)?
Arrive at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) and then head for Dollar or Enterprise, both a short distance away. You'll be exploring Santa Barbara in your own set of wheels in no time at all.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Barbara car reservation?
We understand that plans change at the last moment. That's why a large number of prepaid rentals allow for a complete refund if you cancel six hours prior to pickup. Your rental policy should contain all the details you need. If you can't find the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is always accessible.
What types of cars can I rent in Santa Barbara?
Whatever meets your needs! Go for an intermediate or full-size if you're travelling with the family, or level up to a premium for sleek sophistication. Or, choose an economy vehicle — the most booked rental in Santa Barbara. Affordable and with terrific mileage, they're a good match for solo travellers, couples or anyone else who doesn't need a great deal of room. They're particularly suited to exploring cities. Zipping into narrow parking spots will be a cinch!
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Barbara?
There are lots of things to see and do in Santa Barbara, but venture further afield and you'll find even more magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can cruise around the greater area at your own speed. Add these fantastic places to your itinerary:

  • Los Angeles is approximately 137 kilometres from Santa Barbara. Notable sights like Universal Studios Hollywood deserve to be high on your must-see list here.
  • Your next stop? Santa Ana, which is around 193 kilometres away. Santa Ana Zoo is one local highlight you won't want to miss.
  • Balboa Park is around 306 kilometres from Santa Barbara and is one of the region's most spectacular nature spots. Stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air.

Why should I rent a Santa Barbara car with Expedia?
If you're looking for a set of reliable wheels in Santa Barbara, there's no better place than Expedia. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock an awesome deal. Our members always get our lowest prices. And with rental suppliers to select from, there's loads of choice. Like to save even more? Bundle your bookings into a travel package. From car and holiday rentals to hotels, flights and more, we make it easy to plan your adventure.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
Getting the best deal on your Santa Barbara rental car is easy with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add in a few more details and compare the offers from top suppliers. Why not add flights and hotels to your booking? You'll get access to even more savings when you create a holiday package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Rental car rules in Santa Barbara require drivers to be at least 21. Are you a young driver? A few surcharges and restrictions could apply. Rental companies impose what's known as a young renter surcharge, which is an additional fee to the cost of the rental car. Restrictions usually apply to the classes of cars young motorists can rent as well. Age limits may differ between companies, so check before you book.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Generally, you'll need a valid driver's licence and credit card in your name when picking up your car. Proof of coverage may also be needed if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance plan. Rules may differ between rental providers, so it's wise to check the terms and conditions.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Barbara?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a car rental in Santa Barbara was NZ$105. The next lowest was NZ$111 per day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental 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?
You can, and the terrific news is suppliers often offer lower rates the longer you rent. Scroll through our long-term car rental deals in Santa Barbara and drive away with a real bargain.
Where can I find a Santa Barbara car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to look into the age policy of the Santa Barbara rental suppliers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years old, some will charge additional fees. It's handy to know about this before collecting the vehicle so you can tailor your budget accordingly. Each rental car company has its own terms and conditions for young drivers, so it pays to do your research.