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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Bakersfield
Bakersfield
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Bakersfield
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Bakersfield
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Bakersfield
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Bakersfield?
Bakersfield, California, offers a blend of urban attractions and natural beauty, making a rental car essential for exploring the region. While public transportation is available, a car provides the flexibility and convenience to experience everything Bakersfield has to offer.
Explore Natural Wonders: Bakersfield is a gateway to destinations like Sequoia National Forest and Kern River. A rental car allows you to easily access these outdoor attractions without relying on guided tours or shuttle services.
Visit Local Attractions: From the Buck Owens Crystal Palace to the Kern County Museum, Bakersfield has a variety of attractions spread throughout the city. A car makes it easy to visit these places at your own pace.
Convenience for Families: If you're traveling with family or have a lot of luggage, a rental car offers the comfort and convenience needed to get around Bakersfield and its surrounding areas.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Bakersfield
Before renting a car in Bakersfield, understanding the terms and conditions is important. Here's what you need to know:
Area
151.2 square miles (391.7 square kilometers)
Population
Approximately 400,000 residents
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Ideal for
Trips outside the city
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.0/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Bakersfield require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, renters under 25 may be subject to additional fees.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country license.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is usually required and held on the renter’s credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies also vary, with many requiring the car to be returned with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, or optional add-ons such as GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Bakersfield – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand.
Low season (November to February): Discounts are often available during the off-season.
Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Bakersfield?
To book a car in Bakersfield, follow these simple steps:
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site to find the best deals based on your travel dates and preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the outdoors.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Bakersfield
Bakersfield is a vibrant city in California known for its country music heritage and agricultural industry. A rental car is the best way to navigate this sprawling city and its surrounding areas.
Bakersfield offers a variety of attractions, from cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures. While the city does have some public transportation options, renting a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace. Driving in Bakersfield is generally straightforward, but being aware of local traffic laws and parking regulations is important for a smooth and stress-free experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Buck Owens Crystal Palace
A legendary venue celebrating country music.
Kern County Museum
A historical museum showcasing the region's past.
California Living Museum (CALM)
A zoo and botanical garden highlighting California's native flora and fauna.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available in downtown Bakersfield, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, but be mindful of time limits.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located outside the city center to avoid downtown traffic and parking fees.
Gas Stations in Bakersfield
Major Brands Available
Gas stations from major brands like Chevron, Shell, and ARCO are readily available throughout Bakersfield.
Convenient Locations
Fuel stations are conveniently located along major roads and highways.
Use Navigation Apps
Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to find nearby gas stations and compare prices.
Useful Tips for Visiting Bakersfield
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM) when roads are often congested.
Stay Hydrated
Bakersfield can get very hot, especially during the summer months, so stay hydrated while driving.
Check Weather Conditions
Be aware of potential weather changes, especially during the winter months, as rain or fog can affect driving conditions.
Use GPS Navigation
A GPS navigation system can be helpful for navigating Bakersfield's streets and finding destinations.
Key Transportation Hubs in Bakersfield
Bus Stations
Golden Empire Transit District (GET Bus)
The primary bus service provider in Bakersfield, offering routes throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Railway Stations
Bakersfield Amtrak Station
Serves as a stop for Amtrak's San Joaquin route, connecting Bakersfield to other cities in California.
Airports
Meadows Field Airport (BFL)
Located a few miles north of Bakersfield, offering flights to various destinations within the [COUNTRY PLACE] and beyond.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Bakersfield?
Renting a car in Bakersfield requires a few essential items. Here’s what you’ll need:
A valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Additional fees may apply for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the driver’s name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required for international renters.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Bakersfield as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Low-key pleasant vibe
Ethan Brown
Reviewed: 26.02.2025
Pretty relaxed, actually.
Chloe Martinez
Reviewed: 19.08.2024
Bakersfield was surprisingly fun! Exploring with the family was easy thanks to our rental car; we saw so much.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 14.01.2025
Okay, I guess.
Maria Hernandez
Reviewed: 13.03.2025
Honestly, Bakersfield wasn't what I expected. Having a rental car was a lifesaver, though. The local museum was interesting, but the downtown area felt a bit…quiet. Overall, a decent trip.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 18.11.2024
Bakersfield surprised me! A spontaneous weekend trip, made easy by having a car, and I loved exploring the area. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 23.08.2024
Family vacation in Bakersfield was fantastic! Getting around with a rental car was so convenient, and we had a blast.
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 29.10.2024
Pretty chill, tbh
Kevin Lee
Reviewed: 28.11.2024
Bakersfield was a great base for exploring the coast. Having a car made everything so easy, and the trip was incredibly relaxing.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 27.04.2025