$37 Car Rental Berkeley, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Berkeley

Renting a car in Berkeley offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for college visitors, outdoor enthusiasts, and families, as a rental car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. With a vehicle, you can conveniently visit attractions like Pier 39 and Alcatraz Island, both located 9 miles away, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Jack London Square, just 5 miles from Berkeley. Additionally, having a rental car makes it easy to explore nearby popular destinations such as Oakland, where attractions like the University of California, Berkeley, await. If you wish to venture further, neighborhoods like Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square, both 9 miles away, offer unique experiences. A rental car is ideal for families needing space for strollers and gear, ensuring everyone stays together while exploring. With so much to see and do, a rental car enhances your trip by providing the convenience to create your own itinerary without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Berkeley

• Economy: This car type comfortably fits 5 travelers and accommodates up to 2 medium suitcases, making it a perfect choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Its compact size is particularly advantageous for navigating the streets of Berkeley, allowing easy parking and maneuverability while you explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace.
• Compact: With space for 5 travelers and the ability to hold up to 3 medium suitcases, the compact car option is versatile and suitable for various groups, including solo adventurers, couples, and families. Its smaller frame is ideal for urban driving, ensuring that you can effortlessly navigate Berkeley's attractions while enjoying the flexibility of a rental car.
• Midsize SUV: This option is designed for comfort, fitting 5 travelers and allowing up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV is particularly well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who desire extra space and comfort during their travels. With its spacious interior, you can enjoy your journeys around Berkeley and beyond with ease, making it a popular choice among renters seeking a blend of functionality and comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Berkeley

• Enterprise: Enterprise has established itself as a top choice for car rentals in Berkeley, with two convenient rental locations in the area. Travelers often choose this supplier for its impressive selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Compacts. Customers appreciate the friendly service and quick pickup process, making it a reliable option for those looking to explore Berkeley and beyond at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz operates a rental location in Berkeley and is well-regarded among travelers for its dependable service. The most popular vehicles booked through Hertz include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to a variety of travel needs. Customers frequently commend the ease of the rental process, as well as the condition of the vehicles, making it a solid choice for visitors seeking flexibility while exploring the area.
• Budget: Budget is another popular car rental option in Berkeley, offering a location that is easily accessible for travelers. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget provides Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles, making it a great fit for both solo travelers and families. Many customers highlight the straightforward pickup and drop-off process, ensuring a seamless experience while enjoying their trip around Berkeley.

Where to go in Berkeley

• Oakland: Located in the vibrant city of Oakland, Berkeley is a gateway to a variety of attractions. The area offers a rich cultural experience, highlighted by the historic University of California, Berkeley. Visitors can explore the lively Oakland Arena for family-friendly entertainment or visit Jack London Square for a modern urban atmosphere. Peak visitor numbers occur from July to September, making it an ideal time for those seeking a bustling experience.
• Fisherman's Wharf: About 9 miles from Berkeley, Fisherman's Wharf is a delightful neighborhood known for its family-friendly activities and shopping experiences. Key attractions include Pier 39, where visitors can enjoy waterfront views, and the nearby Alcatraz Island, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The best time to visit is between April and July when the area sees the highest number of travelers, providing a lively atmosphere.
• Union Square: Also situated 9 miles from Berkeley, Union Square is a dynamic neighborhood featuring a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art for a dose of culture or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the square itself. This area sees increased visitor numbers from April to July, making it an exciting time to experience the local events and attractions.

10 tips to save on your Berkeley car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to find 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. Booking in advance often results in lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a nice compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may incur higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it might be worth the extra cost for the convenience it provides.
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 unexpected expenses and offer peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is easy when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rental options with unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional 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 January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand remains average. March and April also offer reasonable rates with steady demand. However, June stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and increased demand, followed closely by July and August, when both prices and demand peak. September and October then see a return to average pricing with lower demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.5°F (13.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Berkeley

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Berkeley into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Berkeley and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Berkeley

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Berkeley. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Berkeley

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $37.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals