Car Rental Santa Barbara

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Santa Barbara

Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings, and package your flight, hotel, and car to save even more.

Members save 10% more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Sign up.Opens in a new window

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

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Barbara car reservation?
If you need to make changes to your itinerary, nearly all rentals qualify for a complete refund. You'll just need to let us know at least six hours before the pickup time. Check your cancellation policy for any exclusions. Your itinerary will have more details, or jump onto our Customer Service Portal for more info.
What types of cars can I rent in Santa Barbara?
If you'll be exploring bustling cities, you'll want to think small — like an economy-sized car. The most booked type of rental in Santa Barbara, they can easily navigate congested streets, squeeze into narrow parking spots and offer terrific mileage. But there's nothing holding you back from thinking big either! Check out our full-size or SUV options if you need some extra legroom, or take things to the next level with one of our sleek premium rides.
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara is full of surprises, but don't restrict yourself to only one place. Rent some wheels and hit the open road to see what's in the surrounding area. Here are a few places to choose from:

  • Make tracks to Belo Horizonte for a fantastic sightseeing adventure. Roughly 56 kilometers from Santa Barbara, it's home to lots of cool attractions like Mineirão Stadium.
  • Why not see the best of Governador Valadares too? Notable tourist attractions here include Pico Da Ibituruna Lookout. Governador Valadares is roughly 193 kilometers from Santa Barbara.
  • Spend time in nature and appreciate the serenity at Christ the Redeemer. You'll find it about 338 kilometers from Santa Barbara.

How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
Check customer ratings, choose your preferred car type and compare prices from top providers. Expedia makes it a cinch to nab the best deal on your rental wheels. Bundle your Santa Barbara car rental with hotel or flight bookings and drive away with extra savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Rental vehicle rules in Santa Barbara require drivers to be 21 and over. Are you a young driver? Surcharges and restrictions could apply. Rental providers impose what's known as a young renter surcharge, which is an extra fee to the car rental cost. Restrictions often apply to the sorts of cars available to young motorists as well. Age limits may vary between outlets, so check before you book.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Generally, all that's required is a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name when picking up the car. You may also need proof of coverage if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance plan. Rules may differ between rental companies, so be sure to read the fine print.
What side of the road do you drive on in Santa Barbara?
In Santa Barbara and around Brazil, motorists drive on the right side of the road. While this is the same as in the U.S, remember that there's likely to be different driving laws.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Barbara?
Yes. Expedia partners with quality providers that offer long-term rentals for a wide range of cars. Book one of our long-term car rental deals and explore every bit of Santa Barbara — or beyond!
Where can I find a Santa Barbara car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies are different between rental companies, so be prepared to do a little shopping around. Managed to find a Santa Barbara outlet that does rent to drivers under the age of 25? Terrific! Just bear in mind that extra charges often apply to drivers aged between 21 and 24. The terms and conditions of each rental car you're looking at will have all the information you need.