Car Rental Santa Clara County Airport (PAO)

Reasons to book a car rental at Palo Alto Airport

Renting a car at Palo Alto airport is a practical choice for travellers looking to explore the area with ease. With the convenience of on-site rental services, you can pick up your vehicle and begin your journey without delay. A rental car offers the freedom to visit various attractions at your own pace, making it ideal for sightseeing and managing luggage effectively. Families and those seeking a friendly experience will appreciate the flexibility a rental car provides.

From Palo Alto airport, you can easily access notable destinations such as the Computer History Museum, located just 5 km away, and California's Great America, an amusement park 14 km from the airport. Additionally, the historic Winchester Mystery House is only 21 km away, perfect for culture enthusiasts. Exploring nearby areas like Sunnyvale, 12 km away, or Midtown, just 2 km from the airport, allows you to immerse yourself in local experiences. With a rental car, you can create your itinerary and enjoy the sights and attractions around Palo Alto airport without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car rentals near Palo Alto Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for car rentals at Palo Alto airport, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area comfortably and with ease.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is perfect for those travelling with family or in groups, as it also seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it a favourite among renters who need ample space for both passengers and luggage.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV can accommodate 5 travellers and offers room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for couples or smaller groups who want the comfort of an SUV while still managing a reasonable amount of luggage.

Top rated car suppliers near Palo Alto Airport

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travellers, offering 3 rental locations, with the nearest just 4 km away from Palo Alto airport. Known for its excellent selection, the most booked vehicles from Hertz include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making it a great option for those needing additional space or comfort during their travels.
• Enterprise: Enterprise features a single rental location situated 5 km from Palo Alto airport. This supplier is favoured for its reliable service and well-maintained vehicles. The most frequently booked options are Midsize and Standard cars, providing a perfect balance of comfort and efficiency for your driving needs.
• Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations, with the nearest being 5 km away from Palo Alto airport. This supplier is known for its competitive pricing and variety of vehicle options. The most popular choices include Fullsize and Economy cars, ideal for those looking for affordability without compromising on quality.

Where to stay near Palo Alto Airport

• Sunnyvale: Located 12 km from Palo Alto, Sunnyvale is an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. With attractions like California's Great America amusement park and the historic Winchester Mystery House, there’s plenty to explore. Notably, Historic Murphy Avenue offers a charming street suitable for leisurely strolls. Sunnyvale also features numerous dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, making it a well-rounded destination for your stay.
• Mountain View: Situated 8 km from Palo Alto, Mountain View is a vibrant city ideal for families and those seeking cultural experiences. This area is home to the renowned Computer History Museum and the thrilling California's Great America amusement park. The local dining scene includes several wineries and restaurants, providing a great variety of options for food enthusiasts. Mountain View’s blend of education, entertainment, and culture makes it a compelling choice for your accommodation.
• Palo Alto: As the closest city, Palo Alto offers a rich cultural experience just a stone's throw from the airport. You can explore the Palo Alto Art Center and the historic Stanford Memorial Church, both of which enhance the cultural landscape. Additionally, the Baylands Nature Preserve provides a serene escape for outdoor lovers. With a selection of wineries and restaurants nearby, Palo Alto presents an ideal setting for both leisure and business travellers.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Palo Alto

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and 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 is generally advisable to reserve your PAO car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Aiming to confirm your booking 1-3 months ahead of time is optimal, especially during peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller options like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies 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 peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking with Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend a significant amount of time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Palo Alto Airport

The best time to rent a car from Palo Alto Airport is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderate. This period offers excellent value for travellers. The months of January and February can also be good choices, with slightly lower prices and moderate demand. However, June tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and prices. April is another busy month, often leading to increased costs for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
April	57.4°F (14.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
May	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average