Cheap Thrifty Car Rental in Santa Barbara

Familiarize yourself with local habits to enhance your safety and compliance on the road.

Before driving away in Santa Barbara, thoroughly inspect the car for any damage. Document any existing damage with photos or video to avoid disputes later on.

When booking, check if the rental company offers extras such as GPS or child seats. These can enhance your driving experience but may incur additional costs, so it's wise to factor them into your budget.

Before renting a car, check if your personal car insurance covers rental losses. Many personal auto insurance policies and credit cards offer coverage for rentals, which could save you from extra insurance fees.

When renting a car in Santa Barbara, choose a car rental 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.

Some zones may have driving limitations; make sure you’re aware of them.

If you're traveling with pets, confirm the rental company's pet policy before booking. Some companies allow pets but may have specific fees or restrictions, so it’s best to clarify in advance.

Be aware that some rental companies impose age restrictions or additional fees for drivers under 25. Make sure to check the company’s age policy when booking.