Oakland Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Oakland

Renting a car in Oakland provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and those interested in outdoor and cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit attractions like Jack London Square, a vibrant area for city experiences, and Berkeley Marina, perfect for outdoor adventures and beach activities. The historic Ferry Building is also a short drive away, located 11 km from Oakland, offering a glimpse into the local culture.

Additionally, a rental car allows for convenient access to popular destinations such as Berkeley, where you can explore Pier 39 and Alcatraz Island, and Hayward, known for Hayward Regional Shoreline Park and San Francisco Bay. Emeryville is also nearby, featuring attractions like Jack London Square and the Ferry Building. Having a vehicle ensures you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Oakland

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a popular choice for many travellers in Oakland. This vehicle comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. With its combination of comfort and versatility, a midsize SUV allows you to navigate the city and surrounding areas with ease, while also providing ample room for your belongings during your trip.
• Compact: A compact car is an excellent option for those seeking a balance between efficiency and space. Accommodating 5 travellers with room for up to 3 medium suitcases, this type of vehicle is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. Compact cars are well-suited for city driving, allowing you to easily maneuver through Oakland’s streets and find parking without hassle, all while enjoying a comfortable ride.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is another highly booked choice in Oakland, catering to a variety of travel needs. It can comfortably seat 5 travellers and holds up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or groups. This vehicle type combines space and capability, allowing you to explore the area while enjoying a comfortable driving experience. A standard SUV provides a great option for those who need a bit more room without compromising on convenience.

Top rated car suppliers in Oakland

• Budget: With three rental locations in the Oakland area, Budget provides great convenience for travellers looking to explore at their own pace. Known for its competitive rates, this supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, making it an excellent choice for families or groups needing extra space.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo features one rental location in Oakland, offering a straightforward and efficient car rental experience. This supplier is favoured for its Midsize SUV and Mini Van options, catering to those who require more room for passengers or luggage. Alamo’s focus on customer service helps ensure a pleasant rental experience.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With three locations throughout Oakland, Thrifty Car Rental offers flexibility and convenience for your journey. Popular choices include the Midsize SUV and Compact vehicles, which provide suitable options for various travel needs. Thrifty is a great option for budget-conscious travellers seeking quality vehicles without compromising on service.

Where to stay in Oakland

• Berkeley: Located near Oakland, Berkeley is a vibrant city known for its cultural and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore attractions such as the historic college university and the picturesque Berkeley Marina, ideal for outdoor activities and beach holidays. The area also offers a variety of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a great base for your travels. Notable landmarks like Alcatraz Island and Pier 39 are also in close proximity.
• Hayward: Situated in the vicinity of Oakland, Hayward is perfect for those seeking a family-oriented and outdoor experience. The city is home to several parks, including Hayward Regional Shoreline Park, which is a fantastic spot for nature lovers. With its modern and historic colleges nearby, Hayward also presents opportunities for education and entertainment, complemented by local dining options that feature wineries and restaurants. The San Francisco Bay adds a scenic touch to your stay.
• Emeryville: Just a short distance from Oakland, Emeryville is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and cultural offerings. The area features attractions like Jack London Square, a vibrant modern square, and the historic Ferry Building, perfect for those interested in culture. With plenty of shopping and dining options nearby, including restaurants and wineries, Emeryville serves as an excellent hub for exploring the wider region, with easy access to notable sites such as Pier 39.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to locate the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure more favourable rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—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 before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance during your Expedia booking is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Oakland

The best time to rent a car in and around Oakland is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March offers the lowest demand, making it an interesting option despite slightly higher prices. From April through June, demand increases and prices tend to be higher, with June being the most expensive month. July and August maintain this trend of high demand and prices, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
April	55.4°F (13.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	57.9°F (14.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	61.9°F (16.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	64.0°F (17.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	55.8°F (13.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low