San Mateo Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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Explore San Mateo with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

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

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Toyota Corolla

AU$71

total
found 4 days ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla

Full Size Pickup Regular Cab

GMC Sierra
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
GMC Sierra

AU$74

total
found 4 days ago
Full Size Pickup Regular Cab GMC Sierra

Standard

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Volkswagen Jetta

AU$79

total
found 4 days ago
Standard Volkswagen Jetta

Economy Special

Managers Special
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Managers Special

AU$114

total
found 4 days ago
Economy Special Managers Special

Luxury

Genesis G70
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Genesis G70

AU$131

total
found 4 days ago
Luxury Genesis G70

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Chrysler Pacifica

AU$163

total
found 4 days ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica

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Lowest prices found within the past 4 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your San Mateo car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Mateo

Renting a car in San Mateo provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, or those seeking outdoor experiences, as it allows for easy management of luggage and flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit attractions such as Coyote Point Park and Bay Meadows Park, both located within San Mateo, ideal for family outings and outdoor activities. Additionally, the vibrant atmosphere of San Francisco, located just 12 km away, offers city experiences like the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39. You can also explore nearby Burlingame, only 3 km from San Mateo, featuring Topgolf and scenic views of San Francisco Bay. For those interested in local parks, East San Mateo boasts Lakeshore Park Beach and Shoreview Park, perfect for a leisurely day out. Overall, having a rental car ensures you can fully enjoy all that San Mateo and its neighbouring areas have to offer without the constraints of public transport.

Where to stay in and around San Mateo

  • San Mateo: Positioned within the vibrant San Francisco metropolitan area, San Mateo offers a blend of urban experiences with access to numerous attractions. Visitors can enjoy local shopping malls, parks, and sports facilities. The proximity to San Francisco allows easy exploration of iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park, making it an ideal base for family, outdoor, and city-themed adventures.
  • Highlands-Baywood Park: This charming neighbourhood, located around San Mateo, is perfect for travellers seeking outdoor and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore the beautiful San Francisco Bay and relax at nearby beaches like Miramar Beach and Half Moon Bay State Beach. With shopping centres and golf courses within reach, Highlands-Baywood Park provides a delightful mix of leisure and recreation for a memorable stay.
  • Half Moon Bay: Just 14 km away from San Mateo, Half Moon Bay is a picturesque city known for its stunning beaches and scenic views. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this destination offers access to recreational areas and boardwalks, along with attractions like Pillar Point Harbor and Miramar Beach. The region is especially inviting during the warmer months, making it a wonderful option for those seeking a beach holiday or a peaceful getaway.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Mateo

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with 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 can be 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 vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. 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 necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often 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 should any unexpected incidents occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
  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$71
Second Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$74
Third Best Car Rental Deal:
AU$79
Airport to hotel transportation:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in San Mateo?
Exciting road trip adventures in San Mateo await, with daily car rental rates starting from as little as AU$71. That's based on prices found within the past seven days.
Can I rent a car from San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO)?
Airport Van Rental and Hertz are just a short drive from San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO). After touching down, it won't be long before you're on the road.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Mateo car reservation?
We appreciate that having the freedom to change your plans is important. That's why the majority of bookings give a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to collecting the car. You may want to scan the rental agreement though because there are some exemptions. If the info isn't there, head over to our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in San Mateo?
Whatever meets your needs! Go for an intermediate or full-size if you're with the family, or scale up to a premium for sleek sophistication. Or, choose an economy model — the most booked rental in San Mateo. Affordable and with terrific mileage, they're a good fit for singles, couples or anyone else who doesn't require a large amount of room. They're particularly suited to city exploring. Getting into narrow parking spots will be a cinch!
Where can I go on a road trip from San Mateo?
San Mateo has plenty to keep you on the move, but don't limit yourself to only one place. Pick up a set of wheels and hit the road to see what else awaits in the surrounding area. Here are some places to consider:
  • You'll find Six Flags Hurricane Harbour Concord and many other interesting sights in Concord. From San Mateo, it's roughly 56 kilometres away.
  • Your next pit stop? Santa Cruz, which is around 72 kilometres away. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one local highlight you really shouldn't miss.
  • Get into the outdoors and breathe in some fresh air at Glacier Point. You'll find it around 241 kilometres from San Mateo.
How do I find the best car rental deals in San Mateo with Expedia?
Browse our wide range of car rentals, check out customer reviews and compare offers from big-name suppliers. In a few easy clicks, Expedia will help you track down the best deal on your ride. Got a flight or hotel booking? Add on your San Mateo car rental and save even more.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in San Mateo?
You need to be at least 21 to take the wheel of a rental car in San Mateo. Bear in mind that young drivers may only be able to rent from a few car categories, such as economy, compact and medium size. Higher age limits usually apply for luxury and specialty vehicles. Many companies will also charge a fee for young renters. Read through the rules carefully before clicking book and factor any surcharge into your travel budget.
What do you need to rent a car in San Mateo?
The main requirements are a valid driver's licence and a credit card in your name. Car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may have to provide proof of alternative coverage if you choose to opt out. Make sure you check your policy requirements to avoid any hassles.
What is the cheapest car rental in San Mateo?
San Mateo has had some happy car renters lately. Daily prices within the past seven days dropped as low as AU$71 and AU$74. 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 San Mateo?
Yes. Expedia partners with reputable companies that offer long-term rentals for all types of cars. Reserve one of our long-term car rental deals and explore every nook and cranny of San Mateo — or far beyond!
Where can I find a San Mateo car rental if I am younger than 25?
Renting a car if you are under 25 years old in San Mateo often depends on the rental company you select. Some places have a surcharge for young drivers aged between 21 and 24 years, but others may not have any extra costs for this age group. Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of your prospective car company to avoid excessive charges at the rental desk.
Can I drive in San Mateo with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license from the United States, then you may need to organise 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 valid 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. Other things you should know about rental cars in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in most states to be able to rent a car, although in some areas allow drivers as young as 21. We recommend checking local rules and regulations, and with the car rental company before your trip to understand all the regulations that may apply to you.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before you get behind the wheel so you can avoid any unnecessary fees. When renting a car in the U.S, it's usually prohibited to cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive onto ferries or traverse rough terrain with your home vehicle. Please read the details before you book!

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