Berkeley Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Berkeley

Renting a car in Berkeley provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for travellers seeking a culture-themed, family, or outdoor experience. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary.

Key attractions such as the Berkeley Marina, ideal for outdoor and beach experiences, are easily accessible. You can also venture to nearby destinations like Pier 39 and Alcatraz Island, both located 14 km away from Berkeley. Exploring the vibrant cities of Oakland and Emeryville, just a short drive away, allows you to visit popular spots like Jack London Square and the Ferry Building. Additionally, Downtown Berkeley offers cultural experiences with places like the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. A rental car not only simplifies your travel but also enhances your ability to visit multiple attractions comfortably, making it a popular choice for tourists in the area.

Most popular car rentals in Berkeley

• Midsize: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for couples or families. Its roomy interior allows for comfort during your travels, while also providing the flexibility needed to explore Berkeley's attractions without the hassle of luggage constraints.
• Economy: The economy car is perfect for up to 5 travellers and can hold 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking an affordable and efficient vehicle. With its compact size, the economy car allows for easier navigation through the streets of Berkeley, while still offering a suitable amount of room for your luggage.
• Compact: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 medium suitcases. The compact car is versatile for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to explore Berkeley. Its smaller size makes it easier to park, while still providing adequate space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a convenient travel experience in and around the city.

Top rated car suppliers in Berkeley

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travellers in Berkeley, offering one convenient rental location in the area. Customers often select Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, which provide ample space for comfort and luggage. Hertz is known for its straightforward rental process and well-maintained cars, ensuring a reliable experience as you explore Berkeley and its surroundings.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations in Berkeley, Enterprise stands out for its excellent customer service and variety of vehicle options. Travellers frequently opt for Midsize and Compact SUVs, making it a great choice for families or those needing extra space. Enterprise is praised for its friendly staff and efficient check-in process, making your car rental experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Budget: Budget operates one rental location in Berkeley, providing a selection of vehicles that includes Midsize SUVs and Compacts. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget is an appealing option for those looking to explore the area without breaking the bank. The rental process is designed to be quick and efficient, ensuring you can start your adventure in Berkeley with minimal delay.

Where to stay around Berkeley

• Oakland: Located near Berkeley, Oakland is a vibrant metropolis offering a diverse range of experiences. Ideal for family, outdoor, and culture-themed adventures, visitors can explore attractions like the historic college university and the lively Jack London Square. Enjoy various dining options, including local wineries and restaurants. The city also features the Ferry Building, a cultural landmark that adds to its appeal.
• El Cerrito: Situated 4 km from Berkeley, El Cerrito is a charming city that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its recreational areas and shopping mall center, there's plenty to do. Noteworthy attractions include the nearby beach and marina, while dining options encompass local restaurants and wineries. El Cerrito offers a delightful blend of culture and leisure, making it a great place to stay.
• Bay Area: Just 5 km away from Berkeley, the Bay Area is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and scenic views. This region boasts beautiful beaches and recreational areas, ideal for family outings. Key points of interest include Pier 39 and the historic Ferry Building, which provide unique experiences for visitors. The Bay Area's diverse dining scene, featuring wineries and restaurants, further enhances its appeal.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to discover the best option 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and have a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to manoeuvre and park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years 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 before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just be sure to return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, though the convenience might justify the extra cost.
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 provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when making your booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary 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 December, when prices are slightly low and demand tends to be moderately high. January and February are also good options, as demand is usually at its lowest during these months. However, April is when prices peak, and demand is at its highest, making it the most expensive time to rent a car. March generally sees slightly high prices and average demand, adding to the trend of rising costs in spring.

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	Moderately Low	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	Average	Average
August	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
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	Average	Average
December	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low