The holiday season in Los Cabos is magical. With warm sunny days, breathtaking beaches, festive events, and plenty of opportunities to explore, it’s no wonder that Los Cabos has become a top destination for U.S. travelers at this time of year. But with popularity comes challenges—especially when it comes to transportation.
Whether you’re visiting for Christmas, New Year’s, or just a winter escape, renting a car is one of the smartest ways to get around Los Cabos during the busy festive season. To help you have a smooth and memorable vacation, we’ve put together Holiday Car Rental Tips for holiday travelers.
1. Book Your Rental Car Early
The holiday season is one of the busiest times in Los Cabos, and rental cars can sell out quickly. To avoid last-minute stress or skyrocketing prices, book your rental car as soon as you confirm your travel dates.
- Why It Matters: Demand for rental cars in December and January is high due to the influx of tourists. Waiting too long could leave you with limited options—or no car at all.
- Pro Tip: BBB Rent a Car offers online reservations, allowing you to secure your vehicle ahead of time at competitive rates.
Booking early not only guarantees you a car but also gives you a wider selection of vehicles to choose from, so you can pick the one that best suits your holiday plans.
2. Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Holiday Plans
Not all rental cars are created equal, and the type of vehicle you need depends on your itinerary. During the holiday season, it’s important to consider both comfort and practicality when choosing your rental car.
- Compact Cars: Great for solo travelers or couples sticking to main roads and city driving.
- SUVs: Ideal for families, groups, or those planning to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Cabo Pulmo or the East Cape.
- Luxury Vehicles: Perfect if you want to add a touch of elegance to your holiday trip.
Pro Tip: If you’re carrying holiday gifts or luggage for a family vacation, opt for a vehicle with extra trunk space to avoid cramming.
3. Plan for Traffic and Peak Times
During the festive season, Los Cabos sees an influx of tourists, which means heavier traffic—especially in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Knowing when and where to expect congestion can help you plan your outings more efficiently.
- Avoid Rush Hours: Traffic tends to peak in the late morning and early evening as people head to beaches, restaurants, or holiday events.
- Use Toll Roads: Highways like the Carretera Transpeninsular have toll roads that can save you time by bypassing congested areas. Keep some cash handy for toll fees.
- Leave Early for Excursions: Popular attractions like El Arco or Playa del Amor can get crowded, so starting your day early ensures you’ll beat the crowds and find parking easily.
Pro Tip: Use apps like Google Maps to check real-time traffic updates and plan your routes accordingly.
4. Understand Holiday Pricing and Policies
It’s no secret that prices go up during the holiday season. But understanding how car rental pricing works can help you budget smarter and avoid unexpected surprises.
- Rental Rates: Expect higher daily rates in December and early January due to increased demand.
- Insurance Coverage: Make sure you’re clear on what insurance is included in your rental package. BBB Rent a Car offers flexible insurance options to give you peace of mind.
- Deposit Policies: During the festive season, rental companies may require higher security deposits. Be sure to ask about this when booking.
Pro Holiday Car Rental Tips: Lock in your rate early by pre-paying for your rental car if the company offers this option. It can save you money and guarantee your booking.
5. Pack Smart for Your Holiday Road Trips
Driving in Los Cabos during the holidays often means hopping between beaches, cultural events, and holiday celebrations. Packing strategically can make your day trips more enjoyable.
What to Bring:
- Sunscreen and Hats: Even in December, the Los Cabos sun can be intense.
- Reusable Water Bottles: Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re spending the day outdoors.
- Snacks: For longer road trips, pack some light snacks to keep everyone energized.
- Holiday Gear: If you’re celebrating Christmas or New Year’s, don’t forget any festive items like small gifts, decorations, or outfits for photos.
Pro Tip: Rent a car with extra storage space if you’re traveling with family or bringing along special holiday items.
6. Take Advantage of Holiday Events and Attractions
One of the perks of visiting Los Cabos during the festive season is the abundance of holiday activities and events. With a rental car, you can easily hop between celebrations and explore the region’s holiday spirit.
Top Holiday Activities in Los Cabos:
- Christmas Markets: Explore local markets for handmade crafts, holiday treats, and gifts.
- New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Watch the spectacular fireworks displays over Medano Beach or the Cabo San Lucas marina.
- Whale Watching: The holiday season coincides with whale-watching season in Baja California Sur. Drive to a whale-watching tour departure point for an unforgettable experience.
- Local Festivals: Check out the holiday lights and decorations in San José del Cabo, including the historic town square.
Having a car lets you experience all of these events without worrying about transportation schedules or availability.
7. Prepare for Busy Parking Areas
With holiday crowds comes limited parking—especially at popular beaches, attractions, and restaurants. To avoid frustration, keep these parking tips in mind:
- Arrive Early: Early birds get the best parking spots, especially at busy locations like Medano Beach or Chileno Bay.
- Use Paid Parking Lots: Many attractions offer secure paid parking, often worth the small fee for convenience and peace of mind.
- Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Car: While Los Cabos is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to keep personal belongings out of sight.
Pro Holiday Car Rental Tips: BBB Rent a Car vehicles come with secure trunk storage, making it easier to store your gear discreetly.
8. Know Emergency Numbers and Roadside Assistance
Although renting a car is straightforward, it’s important to be prepared for any unexpected situations, especially during the busy holiday season.
- Local Emergency Number: The general emergency number in Mexico is 911, just like in the U.S.
- Roadside Assistance: Check if your rental car provider, like BBB Rent a Car, offers roadside assistance as part of your rental agreement.
- Know Your Hotel Address: Always keep your accommodation address handy in case you need directions or assistance.
Pro Tip: BBB Rent a Car provides 24/7 customer support to ensure you’re never left stranded during your trip.
9. Enjoy the Scenic Drives of Baja California Sur
Finally, don’t forget to soak in the beauty of Baja California Sur while you’re driving around. Los Cabos offers some truly scenic routes that are perfect for road trips.
Must-Drive Routes:
- Cabo San Lucas to San José del Cabo: A scenic 20-mile drive along the Tourist Corridor with gorgeous ocean views and luxury resorts.
- San José del Cabo to Todos Santos: A picturesque drive through the desert landscape, perfect for those visiting this charming art town.
- Cabo Pulmo: A slightly longer drive, but well worth it for the stunning coastal views and incredible snorkeling.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Los Cabos during the holidays is an unforgettable experience, but a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free trip. Renting a car gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore everything the region has to offer—whether it’s celebrating the holidays at a luxury resort, finding quiet moments on pristine beaches, or enjoying festive events in town.
Ready to explore Los Cabos this holiday season? Book your rental car with BBB Rent a Car today to secure your vehicle and enjoy a hassle-free vacation. Let us handle the wheels while you create unforgettable holiday memories!
FAQ – Holiday Car Rental Tips
1. Is it safe to drive in Los Cabos during the holidays?
Yes, driving in Los Cabos is safe. Just be cautious of increased traffic during the festive season and stick to well-lit, tourist-friendly areas.
2. Do I need to reserve a rental car far in advance for the holidays?
Absolutely. The earlier, the better! Holiday season demand is high, and booking early guarantees availability and better rates.