BootsnAll Travel Community

Hi all,
I am thinking of traveling all the way down the US west coast, like from Seattle to San Diego. The ideal way would be to rent a car, but since this would be a long trip (I'm thinking a few weeks) that would be really expensive.

Does anyone know of any companies where you can rent a car or any type of vehicle for a long period of time? And I'd also need to pick up in one location and drop in another. This idea seems kind of crazy to me, but I figure, maybe there's some company out there that does this!?!

If I don't rent a car, what are the best alternates to transport? Bus, train?

Thanks all!

Guess it's impossible!!

Oops! Sorry, normally someone is paying attention enough to answer questions. As far as a one-way rental, I don't know of how this can be done at a low expense.

I suggest that a combination of Greyhound, Amtrak, Craigslist rideshare and local buses ( Golden Gate Transit, etc.) to do this cheaply. In addition, there are usually people at hostels that want someone to share fuel.

I used to work for Enterprise, the car rental agency (yuck, NEVER work for them!). Renting a car for an extended period, plus paying extra for mileage, plus drop-fees will be super expensive. Most other agencies are the same.

I would suggest buying a cheap car! Believe it or not, you could probably find a reliable clunker for less then the $1K+ it would cost to rent. Before you leave, research either junk yards or used car dealers in San Diego who would be willing to buy it after the trip.

In my opinion, you really need the flexibility of having your own car to make this trip worthwhile. Otherwise, whether on a bus or in a rideshare, you'll likely be spending a good amount of time on I-5, and the more time you spend on that road the worse your experience will be. Maybe try Priceline?

Yep, it's the one way thing that'll kill you price wise on the rental car. Also, since I assume you don't already have a car (and insurance), they will hit you hard for that too.

It's too bad, cause car rental prices can be super cheap on the west coast. I just rented a mid-size from Dollar in San Diego for $12 per day unlimited mileage. I routinely rent cars in LA and San Diego for $139/week or less. That's cheaper than owning them!

Alas, like NTFT, I don't think you'd enjoy the trip without a car.

How long is "extended"?
And will you not be returning the way you came?