Sacramento Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Sacramento

Renting a car in Sacramento offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly advantageous for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a city-themed experience, as it allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Discovery Park, which is perfect for family outings, and the California State Capitol, a historic site rich in culture. The Old Sacramento Waterfront also awaits, providing a vibrant atmosphere for family and outdoor experiences.

Beyond the city, a rental car makes it convenient to discover nearby destinations like Roseville, home to Placer County Fairgrounds and Maidu Regional Park, or Elk Grove, where you can enjoy Sacramento Capitol Park and Sutter's Fort State Historic Park. Rancho Cordova, featuring Nimbus Dam and more attractions, is also easily accessible. Exploring these areas by car eliminates the hassle of public transport schedules, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in everything Sacramento and its vicinity have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Sacramento

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a highly popular option for travellers in Sacramento, accommodating up to 5 passengers comfortably along with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for couples and families who need a reliable vehicle for their adventures. With ample room for both people and luggage, you can easily explore the attractions of Sacramento without feeling cramped.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, and groups, the Standard SUV is another top choice for those renting a car in Sacramento. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a higher driving position and more space, making it perfect for those who want a bit more versatility and comfort while navigating the area.
• Compact: The Compact car is a great option for solo travellers, couples, and families alike, with seating for up to 5 passengers and the capacity for up to 3 medium suitcases. This type is perfect for those who want a more economical choice without compromising on comfort. Compact cars are easy to manoeuvre in urban environments, making them practical for exploring Sacramento's attractions.

Top rated car suppliers in Sacramento

• Budget: With 5 rental locations throughout the Sacramento area, Budget is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. They offer a variety of vehicles, with the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV being the most booked options. Budget's extensive presence in the city makes it easy for you to pick up and drop off your rental vehicle at your convenience.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Located in the heart of Sacramento, Thrifty Car Rental provides a streamlined rental experience with a focus on customer satisfaction. This supplier is known for its Midsize and Compact vehicles, making it an ideal option for those looking for efficiency and ease of manoeuvrability in the city. With its single location, Thrifty ensures a straightforward rental process for all your travel needs.
• Alamo Rent A Car: With a dedicated location in Sacramento, Alamo Rent A Car is well-regarded for its friendly service and efficient operations. They offer a selection of Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, catering to both spacious and economical preferences. Alamo's commitment to customer satisfaction makes it a reliable choice for tourists wanting to explore the local attractions at their own pace.

Where to stay in Sacramento

• Roseville: Roseville is a vibrant city that offers a blend of business and family experiences. It’s known for its shopping centres and a variety of recreational activities. Key attractions include the Placer County Fairgrounds, ideal for family outings, and Maidu Regional Park, which is perfect for outdoor holidays. Topgolf is also a popular venue for those looking to enjoy some fun. You’ll find plenty of nearby dining options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a great place to unwind after exploring.
• Downtown Sacramento: Downtown Sacramento is a bustling neighbourhood that caters to families and business travellers alike. It features prominent landmarks like the historic California State Capitol and urban parks such as Discovery Park and Sacramento Capitol Park, offering spaces for relaxation and recreation. This area is also home to various shopping centres and entertainment venues, making it convenient for visitors. With numerous nearby wineries and breweries, you can indulge in local flavours after a day of exploration.
• Rancho Cordova: Rancho Cordova is another city within the Sacramento area known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore Nimbus Dam for scenic views or visit the California State Capitol for a cultural experience. The local parks, including Sacramento Capitol Park, provide ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Rancho Cordova has a variety of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, ensuring that you have plenty of choices for meals after a day packed with activities.

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

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 months, or an economical car for budget considerations, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, 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 less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size 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 types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might 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 additional peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Sacramento

The best time to rent a car in and around Sacramento is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This period offers great value for those looking to explore the area. March and September also provide moderate pricing with lower demand, making them suitable choices for rentals. However, prices tend to rise in December, which is the most expensive month, as demand increases alongside holiday travel. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
April	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
November	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High