Quick Overview
Southern California is built for summer road trips, from the Pacific Coast Highway to the mountains, deserts, and national parks all within a few hours of the city. The smartest way to do it? Rent the right vehicle for the journey, save the miles on your own car, and travel in exactly the comfort and style you want. This guide walks through the best cars, SUVs, and convertibles to rent in Los Angeles this summer, how to match a vehicle to your trip, and how easy it is to book with Galpin Rentals.
In this article:
- Why renting is the smart move for a summer road trip
- The best SUVs for road trips, from compact to full-size
- Fun cars and convertibles for coastal cruising
- Electric and hybrid options to consider
- How to match the vehicle to your trip and book
Why Rent for Your Summer Road Trip?
Putting hundreds of road-trip miles on your personal car means wear, tear, and depreciation you do not have to take on. Renting lets you choose the perfect vehicle for the adventure, whether that is a spacious SUV for the whole family or a convertible for a coastal cruise, without compromise. As a family-owned business and part of the Galpin Motors family serving Los Angeles since 1946, Galpin Rent-A-Car offers a wide, well-maintained fleet of vehicles with flexible hourly, daily, weekly, and long-term rates. For a summer getaway, a car rental in Los Angeles is often the most comfortable and cost-effective way to go.
The Best SUVs for Your LA Road Trip
When it comes to space, comfort, and versatility, an SUV rental is the LA road-trip workhorse. Depending on your crew and cargo, consider:
Compact SUV
Efficient and easy to park, a compact SUV like the Ford Escape is ideal for couples or small families who want SUV practicality without the bulk, a great all-rounder for city and highway.
Mid-Size SUV
A mid-size SUV such as the Ford Explorer hits the sweet spot for families, with three rows of seating, generous cargo room, and a confident highway ride for longer drives.
Full-Size SUV
For big groups and serious gear, a full-size SUV like the Ford Expedition Max delivers maximum room and towing capability, perfect for hauling everyone and everything to the lake or campsite.
Adventure and Luxury SUVs
Want something with attitude? The Ford Bronco is made for off-the-beaten-path summer adventures, while a Lincoln Navigator brings first-class comfort to the long haul. Browse the full SUV lineup to compare.
Fun Cars and Convertibles for Coastal Cruising
Not every trip needs three rows. For a classic California summer drive, a Ford Mustang convertible turns the Pacific Coast Highway into the main event, top down, ocean breeze, sunshine. If efficiency and easy parking matter more, a compact or full-size sedan keeps fuel costs low and city navigation simple, an ideal match for a quick weekend car rental in LA.
Going Electric or Hybrid
Thinking green? Galpin offers electric and hybrid options, including the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E and efficient hybrids like the Honda CR-V Hybrid. They are a smart pick for lower fuel costs and a quieter ride. For an EV road trip, plan your route around charging stops and confirm the vehicle’s range fits your itinerary, our team is happy to help you decide whether an EV or hybrid suits your plans.
Match the Vehicle to Your Trip
A quick way to narrow it down by the kind of summer trip you are planning:
- Beach day or city weekend: a compact car or compact SUV for easy parking and great mileage.
- Family vacation: a mid-size or full-size SUV, or a 7-passenger minivan for maximum space.
- Group trip: a full-size SUV or a 15-passenger van to keep everyone together.
- Coastal cruise: a Mustang convertible for the ultimate California drive.
- Outdoor adventure: a Bronco or capable SUV for trails, mountains, and national parks.
How to Rent This Summer
Booking is simple. Choose your dates and vehicle online, pick up at one of our two convenient Los Angeles-area locations in North Hills or Hollywood, and hit the road. We offer flexible rental terms to fit your trip, and our team can help you choose the right vehicle. Renters must meet our age, driver’s license, and insurance requirements, so review our rental requirements before you book, and check our current specials for ways to save.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rental vehicle for a summer road trip?
It depends on your group and gear. A mid-size SUV suits most families, a full-size SUV or van works for larger groups, and a compact car or convertible is perfect for couples. Our team can help you choose based on your itinerary.
Do you offer weekend and short-term rentals?
Yes. Galpin Rent-A-Car offers hourly, daily, weekly, and long-term rentals, so a weekend car rental in LA is easy to arrange. Reserve online or contact us for help.
How old do I have to be to rent a car?
Age, driver’s license, and insurance requirements apply and certain age groups may have additional conditions. Please review our rental requirements page or contact us for the details that apply to your reservation.
Can I rent an electric vehicle for a road trip?
Yes, we offer EV and hybrid options. For longer trips, plan your route around charging availability and confirm the vehicle’s range fits your itinerary. Our team can help you decide if an EV or hybrid is right for your plans.
Where can I pick up my rental in Los Angeles?
Galpin Rent-A-Car has two locations: North Hills at 8440 Sepulveda Blvd and Hollywood at 1763 Ivar Ave. See our locations for hours and directions.
Book Your Summer Road-Trip Rental Today
Wherever this summer takes you, Galpin Rentals has the right vehicle to get you there in comfort and style. Browse our Rent-A-Car selection, explore the full vehicle lineup, or contact us with any questions. Call (323) 957-3333 or reserve online, and get ready to hit the road.