Car Rental Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)

Reasons to book a car rental at Sacramento International Airport

Renting a car at Sacramento Airport (SMF) is a practical choice for tourists looking to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy the freedom and flexibility to visit various attractions nearby. For culture enthusiasts, the River Fox Train, a historic rail experience, is located just 4 km from the airport. If you're interested in art, The Gallery at SMF is less than 1 km away, making it a convenient stop. Families and outdoor lovers will appreciate Westlake Community Park, which is 6 km from the airport and offers a great urban park experience.

A rental car also allows you to discover the vibrant city of Sacramento, featuring notable sites such as Discovery Park, the California State Capitol, and the Old Sacramento Waterfront. Additionally, you can explore the neighbourhoods of Natomas Creek and Westlake, both just 5 km away, which offer more parks and recreational areas. With a rental car, you can comfortably navigate between these attractions, making it an ideal choice for all types of travellers seeking a memorable excursion in the Sacramento area.

Most popular car rentals near Sacramento Airport

• Midsize: The midsize car is a popular choice for those travelling from Sacramento airport, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families, providing a comfortable ride while allowing for ample luggage space. Perfect for exploring around Sacramento at your own pace, the midsize car offers a great balance of comfort and practicality.
• Standard SUV: If you're travelling with a group or family, the standard SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably seats up to 5 travellers and holds up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for those who prefer a higher driving position and additional space, making it a great choice for navigating both urban and suburban areas around Sacramento airport.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is the top choice for families and larger groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with the flexibility to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for those needing extra room for luggage while still enjoying a smooth driving experience. Renting a fullsize car allows you to explore the surrounding areas comfortably and conveniently.

Top rated car suppliers near Sacramento International Airport

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice among travellers, with a convenient location less than 1 km from Sacramento airport. This supplier is known for its excellent selection of Midsize and Compact cars, making it ideal for those looking for efficiency and affordability. With one rental location nearby, you can easily pick up your vehicle and start exploring Sacramento and its attractions at your own pace.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Located less than 1 km from Sacramento airport, Dollar Rent A Car provides a straightforward rental experience for travellers. This supplier offers a strong selection of Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, catering to various travel needs. With a single rental location nearby, you will find it easy to access your car and embark on your journey through the beautiful region surrounding Sacramento.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out with its convenient location less than 1 km from Sacramento airport, making it a great option for those seeking reliable transportation. This supplier is particularly known for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which are perfect for families or groups looking to travel comfortably. With one rental location nearby, Hertz ensures a smooth pickup process, allowing you to dive right into your adventure in and around Sacramento.

Where to stay near Sacramento International Airport

• Bombay: Located 10 km from Sacramento International Airport, Bombay offers a quaint village atmosphere perfect for families. Visitors can explore the Regency Community Park Off Leash Dog Park, ideal for those travelling with pets, and Carl Hansen Park, which provides ample space for outdoor activities. The proximity to Sacramento allows for easy access to urban attractions while enjoying the charm of a smaller community.
• Elverta: Situated 12 km from the airport, Elverta is a city that caters to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Notable attractions include the Aerospace Museum of California and the McClellan Aviation Museum, both excellent for culture-focused visits. The recreational areas and urban parks are perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. Elverta's variety of nearby wineries and restaurants also presents delightful options for dining.
• Sacramento: Staying in Sacramento itself offers the advantage of proximity to major attractions. Within a short distance of the airport, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Discovery Park, perfect for outdoor adventures, and the historic California State Capitol, which is a must-see for culture lovers. The Old Sacramento Waterfront is great for family outings and provides a rich blend of history and entertainment, making it an ideal base for your trip.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Sacramento

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's generally advisable to reserve your SMF car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Ideally, aim to finalize your booking 1 to 3 months ahead of time, particularly before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under 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 favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides reassurance in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Sacramento Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Sacramento Airport is May, as it offers lower prices and slightly high demand. April also presents a good opportunity with slightly low prices and average demand. Following this, June tends to see average prices with slightly low demand. However, August stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high demand, while July experiences the highest demand, making it pricier overall. September and October follow closely with slightly high prices and steady demand.

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