Berkeley Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Berkeley

Renting a car in Berkeley offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key attractions like the Berkeley Marina, ideal for outdoor and beach experiences. Additionally, you can venture 14 km to Pier 39 and Alcatraz Island, both of which provide unique sightseeing opportunities. This convenience is particularly appealing for families and those seeking cultural experiences, allowing for spontaneous stops and leisurely travel. The car also enables you to explore popular nearby destinations such as Oakland, where you can discover Jack London Square and the Ferry Building, or visit Emeryville, located just 4 km away, which features further attractions. Downtown Berkeley boasts the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, adding to the rich cultural experience. Overall, having a rental car enhances your trip by offering easy access to a variety of outdoor, cultural, and family-friendly locations, making it a practical choice for any traveller in and around Berkeley.

Most popular car rentals in Berkeley

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for those travelling in groups of up to 5 people. With space for 2 medium suitcases, it is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an affordable and efficient way to explore Berkeley. Its compact size makes navigating city streets and finding parking a breeze, allowing for a stress-free travel experience.
• Midsize: If you require a bit more space, the Midsize car is an excellent option. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and providing room for 3 large suitcases, this car type is perfect for couples and families needing extra luggage capacity. It strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it a versatile choice for your car rental needs in and around Berkeley.
• Compact: The Compact car is another popular option, fitting up to 5 travellers with capacity for 3 medium suitcases. This type is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or families who want a balance of comfort and efficiency. Its smaller stature allows for easy manoeuvrability in Berkeley's urban environment while still providing enough space for your essentials.

Top rated car suppliers in Berkeley

• Hertz: With one rental location in the area of Berkeley, Hertz is a popular choice among travellers seeking reliable vehicles. The most booked options include Midsize cars and Midsize SUVs, providing a good balance of space and maneuverability for your adventures around the city and beyond. Their convenient location ensures a smooth pick-up experience, allowing you to hit the road quickly.
• Budget: Budget operates one rental location in Berkeley, making it an easy option for travellers. Known for offering competitive rates, Budget's most sought-after vehicle is the Midsize car, which is ideal for both solo travellers and small groups. The affordability and accessibility of their services make Budget a strong contender for your car rental needs.
• Avis: Avis also has a rental location in Berkeley, catering to those in need of a Standard SUV. This option is perfect for those looking to explore the surrounding areas with additional space and comfort. With Avis, you can expect a straightforward rental process, ensuring you can start your journey without any hassle.

Where to stay around Berkeley

• Oakland: Located adjacent to Berkeley, Oakland is a vibrant metropolis offering a mix of family, outdoor, and culture-themed experiences. Visitors can explore the historic college university and nearby stadiums, while attractions like Jack London Square and the Ferry Building enhance the cultural charm. The area boasts a variety of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, making it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local flavours.
• El Cerrito: Situated only 4 km away from Berkeley, El Cerrito is an appealing destination for families and culture enthusiasts. The city features recreational areas and a shopping mall centre, alongside landmarks such as the beach and marina. With local dining options that include restaurants and wineries, El Cerrito provides a delightful blend of outdoor activities and cultural exploration, perfect for a family getaway.
• Bay Area: Approximately 5 km from Berkeley, the Bay Area is renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor experiences. This region offers recreational areas and shopping centres, complemented by breathtaking views of the bay and beach. Visitors can enjoy attractions like Pier 39 and Jack London Square, along with a variety of dining options ranging from wineries to restaurants, making it a fantastic location for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Berkeley

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This restriction can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Berkeley

The best value period to rent a car in and around Berkeley is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. June through August also see moderate demand levels with average pricing, making them decent options. However, April stands out as the most expensive month, featuring high demand and slightly high prices. February and March follow closely, with slightly high prices and average demand, contributing to the busier rental landscape during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
February	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	56.5°F (13.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
May	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
July	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
August	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
December	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low