Berkeley Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Berkeley

Renting a car in Berkeley offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting numerous attractions. For outdoor enthusiasts, Berkeley Marina provides ideal adventure and beach experiences. If you're looking to venture a bit further, Pier 39 and Alcatraz Island are located approximately 14 km away and are easily accessible by car. The convenience of having your own vehicle allows families to enjoy outings without the hassle of public transport. Additionally, you can explore nearby destinations like Oakland, which features Jack London Square and the Ferry Building, or the city of Emeryville, just 4 km away, known for its vibrant attractions. Downtown Berkeley is also worth a visit, home to the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. Whether you're interested in culture, outdoor activities, or family-friendly experiences, renting a car in and around Berkeley ensures you can create a travel itinerary that suits your needs and preferences.

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: With a rental location in the heart of Berkeley, Hertz provides a convenient option for your car rental needs. Known for their reliable service, Hertz offers a selection of vehicles with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. This makes it easy for you to find a vehicle that suits your travel plans and allows you to explore the beautiful attractions in and around Berkeley at your own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts two rental locations in Berkeley, ensuring that you have easy access to their wide range of vehicles. Popular choices include Midsize and Compact SUVs, perfect for navigating the city and its surroundings. With a reputation for excellent customer service and flexibility, renting from Enterprise allows you to manage your itinerary smoothly while enjoying the freedom of the open road.
• Budget: Budget operates one convenient rental location in Berkeley, making it a great option for cost-conscious travellers. They specialize in Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, providing excellent value for your money. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, Budget ensures you can enjoy your journey without breaking the bank, allowing you to explore Berkeley and nearby attractions comfortably.

Where to stay around Berkeley

• Oakland: A vibrant metropolis, Oakland provides a rich family, outdoor, and culture-themed experience. Situated close to Berkeley, it features popular attractions such as the historic college university and the sports facility stadium. Notable landmarks include Jack London Square, perfect for a city holiday, and the Berkeley Marina, ideal for adventure and outdoor activities. With numerous food and drink options, including wineries and restaurants, Oakland makes an excellent base for exploring the Bay Area.
• El Cerrito: Located 4 km from Berkeley, El Cerrito offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore local attractions such as the historic college university and nearby beaches. The city also features shopping mall centers and recreational areas. Key points of interest include Pier 39, a scenic jetty, and the beautiful Alcatraz Island, making El Cerrito a great option for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Bay Area: Situated 5 km from Berkeley, the Bay Area is known for its stunning outdoor scenery and family-friendly activities. This region is home to various recreational areas, shopping centers, and educational venues. Highlights include Pier 39, a picturesque jetty, and Jack London Square, which offers a modern urban experience. With an array of wineries and restaurants nearby, the Bay Area is a fantastic choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for warm-weather enjoyment, or an economy car to save on costs, utilize Expedia's filters to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure more competitive rates and have a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable 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 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel plans, which are acceptable as well, but ensure the car is returned empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an additional fee, though the 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 unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding insurance is simple when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent 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 tend to be lower and demand is moderately high. January and February are also quiet months, with January seeing the lowest demand. Moving into spring, April typically experiences the highest prices and demand, making it the priciest time to rent a vehicle. March and May fall in between, with slightly high prices and demand levels, especially as April approaches.

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