Los Altos Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Los Altos

Renting a car in Los Altos offers the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for those wishing to experience cultural sites, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and travel plans, allowing for spontaneous adventures. Notable attractions such as the Computer History Museum, located only 5 km away, and the Winchester Mystery House, 16 km from Los Altos, can be visited comfortably. Additionally, California's Great America, an amusement park ideal for families and adventure seekers, is just 13 km away.

Having a car also facilitates visits to nearby cities like Sunnyvale, only 7 km away, where you can explore Historic Murphy Avenue and other attractions. Palo Alto, also 7 km from Los Altos, offers cultural experiences such as the Palo Alto Art Center and Stanford Memorial Church. Mountain View, a mere 3 km away, features the Computer History Museum and other points of interest. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience, making it easier to explore diverse attractions and enjoy your stay in Los Altos.

Where to stay around Los Altos

• Sunnyvale: Located 7 km from Los Altos, Sunnyvale offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor activities and business-themed experiences. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the amusement park, California's Great America, ideal for family outings, and the historic Winchester Mystery House for a taste of local culture. The charming Historic Murphy Avenue is perfect for leisurely strolls and dining, making it an appealing place to stay for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.
• Palo Alto: Also 7 km away from Los Altos, Palo Alto is a hub for culture enthusiasts and families. The city is home to the Palo Alto Art Center, showcasing local art, and Stanford Memorial Church, a beautiful historic site. For nature lovers, the Baylands Nature Preserve offers scenic trails and wildlife viewing. Staying in Palo Alto provides easy access to shopping centres and a variety of dining options, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in a vibrant community.
• Santa Clara: Situated 14 km from Los Altos, Santa Clara is an excellent destination for families and sports enthusiasts. The California's Great America amusement park is a highlight for adventurous visitors, while the Santa Clara Convention Center caters to business travellers. The historic Winchester Mystery House is also within reach for a cultural experience. With numerous shopping options and dining venues nearby, Santa Clara offers a lively atmosphere for an enjoyable stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Los Altos

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're 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 economical to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals have a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You'll frequently incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though this may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on lengthy 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 licence is mandatory to rent a car.