Merced Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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Explore Merced with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Compact

Kia Soul
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Kia Soul

AU$69

total
found 15 hours ago
Compact Kia Soul

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chevrolet Spark

AU$69

total
found 15 hours ago
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Toyota Corolla

AU$71

total
found 15 hours ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla

Standard

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Volkswagen Jetta

AU$74

total
found 15 hours ago
Standard Volkswagen Jetta

Full Size

Toyota Camry
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Toyota Camry

AU$75

total
found 15 hours ago
Full Size Toyota Camry

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Lowest prices found within the past 15 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Merced car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Merced

Renting a car in Merced provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel plan that suits your interests, whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences. Key attractions such as the Merced County Fairgrounds, Merced County Courthouse Museum, and Roland D. Brooks Jr. Neighborhood Park are conveniently located within the city, allowing for easy visits. Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations like Atwater, located 12 km away, which features the Castle Air Museum and Stephen Grey Park, or Buhach, just 9 km from Merced, which offers similar attractions. This flexibility makes a rental car particularly appealing for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. You can explore eco-friendly parks or immerse yourself in local history without the constraints of public transport schedules. Overall, having a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Merced, making it a practical choice for any tourist.

Where to stay in and around Merced

  • Atwater: Located 12 km from Merced, Atwater is an excellent choice for those seeking an outdoor adventure and scenic experiences. Visitors can explore the nearby national parks and enjoy recreational activities at local landmarks like the Castle Air Museum, ideal for culture enthusiasts, and Stephen Grey Park, perfect for families. Atwater also offers a variety of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a delightful stop for food and drink lovers.
  • Fergus: Situated within the Merced area, Fergus is a charming village that caters to families and those looking for entertainment options. The Merced County Fairgrounds is a key attraction, providing a fairground suitable for outdoor activities. Additionally, the Castle Air Museum and the Merced County Courthouse Museum offer cultural insights, ensuring a well-rounded visit. With nearby wineries, Fergus is also a great place to enjoy local beverages.
  • Athlone: Athlone, also located in the Merced area, is a suitable option for business travellers. It features venues like convention centres for professional events, while the Merced County Fairgrounds and Merced County Courthouse Museum provide family-friendly activities and cultural exploration. Roland D. Brooks Jr. Neighborhood Park is perfect for eco-friendly outdoor enjoyment, making Athlone a versatile choice for various types of visitors.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car to save on costs, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re 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 crowded areas. Mid-sized rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Often, you will incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the 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 anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long 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.

Information on Car Rentals

Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
Car Rental Suppliers Available:
Today's Best Car Rental Offer:
AU$69
Second Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$71
Third Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$74
Airport to hotel transportation:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Merced?
The lowest daily rate for a rental car in Merced within the past seven days was AU$69. In the comfort of your own vehicle, you can make your way to whichever sights are calling your name.
Can I rent a car from Merced Municipal Airport (MCE)?
Budget and Avis are within a quick commute of Merced Municipal Airport (MCE). After touching down, it won't be long before you're hitting the open road.
What happens if I need to cancel my Merced car reservation?
That won't be a problem. If you cancel your prepaid rental at least six hours before the pickup time, you're likely to receive a total refund. It's a good idea to scan your rental policy as there are some exclusions. Click through to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
What types of cars can I rent in Merced?
Bustling city streets and narrow parking spaces are no problem for an economy car — the most commonly booked type of rental in Merced. Take the wheel of one of these and manoeuvre around traffic like a dream. Affordable, reliable and good on gas, these small rides pack a punch. But Merced can be explored in almost any type of rental you like. Compact, mid-size and full-size vehicles are among your options.
Where can I go on a road trip from Merced?
Once you've covered all the interesting places in Merced, there's loads more to explore in the surrounding area. Pick up the keys to a rental car, toss your bags in the trunk and get on the road. Here are some road trips we know you'll love:
  • Head off to Santa Clara for a fantastic sightseeing experience. Around 129 kilometres from Merced, it has numerous cool attractions, including California's Great America.
  • Around 153 kilometres away, Concord is also a hit with travellers. Make time to take in Six Flags Hurricane Harbour Concord while you're here. It's one of the reasons people love staying a while in this buzzing city.
  • Make your way to Morro Rock to feel grounded in nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just relax in the fresh air. From Merced, it's about 225 kilometres away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Merced with Expedia?
It's easy to find an awesome deal with Expedia. Just choose the car class, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off locations, and compare offers from all the top rental providers. Save even more when you bundle your Merced car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Merced?
Drivers 21 and above can hit the highway in Merced in a rental vehicle. If you're a young driver, a daily surcharge applies. You'll generally be restricted to a few car categories, such as economy and mid-size, and may also be required to take out comprehensive insurance. Always enter the correct age of the primary driver when booking to find out if any restrictions apply.
What do you need to rent a car in Merced?
Two things — a valid driver's licence and a credit card in your name. Many car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may have to provide proof of alternative coverage if you prefer to opt out. We recommend checking with your rental provider to avoid any problems.
What is the cheapest car rental in Merced?
AU$69 and AU$71 were the two lowest daily prices for rental cars in Merced within the past seven days. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Merced?
Yes, so you won't have to rebook a rental car halfway through your holiday. Click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and find a ride that's all yours for however long you want.
Where can I find a Merced car rental if I am younger than 25?
The ability to rent a car if you're under 25 years in Merced often depends on the rental supplier you choose. Some businesses apply a surcharge for young customers between 21 and 24 years old, but other companies may not apply any extra costs for this age group. Be sure to go through the terms and conditions of your preferred car company to avoid any surprise charges when picking up your keys.
Can I drive in Merced with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license from the U.S, you might need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence before starting the home process. If you find that an IDP is required for you to drive in the U.S., note that you'll also need to show your current driver's license and your passport or other form of ID. Lastly, the credit card that was used to rent the vehicle must match the name on your driver's license and passport in order to finalize your car rental. Additional requirements for car rentals in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or older in many states in order to rent a car, although in some places, the minimum age is 21 years. We recommend checking local rules and regulations, as well as the car rental website before your trip to understand all the regulations that may apply to you.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before you slide behind the wheel so you can avoid any unnecessary fees. When renting a car in the United States, you typically can't cross country borders into Canada or Mexico, drive onto ferries or traverse certain types of rugged terrain with your home. We recommend reading all the rules and regulations before you book!

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