Cheap Thrifty Car Hire in Santa Barbara

Before your trip, confirm if your rental includes roadside assistance. This can be crucial in case of breakdowns or emergencies during your rental period.

Ensure that you have a valid driving licence with at least one year of driving experience. If you are a foreign driver travelling to Santa Barbara, an international driving permit may be required. Remember, hire rates can be higher for drivers under 25 or over 70

When hiring a car in Santa Barbara, be aware that rentals are charged per day. For instance, Thrifty charges per day, so if you rent for more than 24 hours, you’ll incur an additional day’s charge. Plan your hire period to avoid extra costs

Using a GPS or navigation app can help you avoid traffic jams and find efficient routes.

Most rental companies will require a credit card for the deposit, which is typically frozen in your account. Make sure to inquire about the specific deposit amount and the policy for releasing the freeze.

Some rental companies offer a free tank of fuel with your rental. Be sure to understand the terms, including how much fuel you need to return the car with and any potential fees for not meeting these conditions.

When hiring a car in Santa Barbara, choose a car hire deal with a “Full-to-Full” or “Same-to-Same” fuel policy from suppliers like Thrifty. These policies ensure you only pay for the fuel you use, helping you avoid unnecessary costs. While a “Full-to-Empty” policy might seem convenient, it can often be more expensive if you don’t use all the fuel.

If you plan to share driving, check if the rental company allows a second driver and whether there are additional fees. Some companies offer free second driver options under certain conditions.