Wow! Thanks for all the replies!!! So helpful.
One last question. Any good and reliable car hire places in LA that you can recommend?
We have done this trip a few times and used most car companies.(Herts, Enterprise, Dollar, alamo) They where all reliable and good. We booked them all online.My only tip is be careful with Dollar! They added extra charges on. we said we would return the car at 2pm we turned up at 3pm and they charged us a whole extra day rental. Granted we said we would be there by 2pm but I just for it was a little harsh!. Enjoy your trip
