$31 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. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Berkeley Marina, which is great for outdoor and beach experiences. If you're looking to expand your journey, Pier 39 and Alcatraz Island, both located 9 miles away from Berkeley, are accessible and provide unique experiences for visitors. A car is particularly convenient for families, allowing for easy luggage management and comfortable travel with children. Additionally, you can explore nearby cities like Oakland and Emeryville, which are within a short drive, featuring attractions like Jack London Square and the Ferry Building. Downtown Berkeley offers cultural experiences with spots like the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. Having a rental car makes it easy to plan spontaneous outings or day trips without relying on public transportation, ensuring you make the most out of your time in this vibrant area. Overall, a car rental enhances your travel experience by providing flexibility and convenience, allowing you to create your own adventure in and around Berkeley.

Most popular car rentals in Berkeley

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those traveling in groups of up to 5 people. With the capacity for 3 medium suitcases, it’s particularly suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Its size makes it easy to navigate Berkeley’s streets while still providing ample space for luggage, making your trip convenient and enjoyable.
• Economy: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, the Economy car can comfortably accommodate 5 travelers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, and families who want to explore Berkeley without breaking the bank. Its efficient fuel consumption helps you save on gas while enjoying the flexibility of a rental vehicle.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is perfect for couples and families needing extra space. It holds up to 5 passengers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent option for those with more luggage or gear. This car type strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, ensuring that you can explore Berkeley and its surroundings with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Berkeley

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in Berkeley, boasting 2 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its reliable customer service, Enterprise has a strong selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most booked options. This supplier is praised for its efficient check-in process and well-maintained vehicles, making it a great option for those looking to explore the region comfortably and conveniently.
• Hertz: Hertz offers a single rental location in Berkeley, catering to travelers seeking Midsize SUVs and Economy cars. This supplier is recognized for its efficient service and vehicle variety, providing a solid choice for tourists looking to navigate the area. Customers often highlight the ease of the rental process and the quality of the cars, ensuring a pleasant driving experience during your stay.
• Budget: Budget operates one rental location in Berkeley, focusing on affordability and convenience. With Midsize SUVs and Economy cars as popular selections, Budget provides competitive pricing that is ideal for cost-conscious travelers. The company is noted for its straightforward rental process and friendly staff, making it an excellent option for visitors who want to manage their transportation easily while enjoying the sights around Berkeley.

Where to stay around Berkeley

• Berkeley: Stay in Berkeley to experience the vibrant atmosphere of this historic college town. With its proximity to educational institutions, you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Enjoy nearby attractions such as the Berkeley Marina, which offers outdoor adventures and scenic views. The city's diverse dining options make it a culinary delight for food enthusiasts.
• Oakland: Situated in Oakland, this metropolis is perfect for travelers seeking a family-friendly, outdoor, and culture-themed experience. Key attractions include Jack London Square and the Ferry Building, both accessible for exploration. With a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, Oakland offers a rich cultural experience along with entertainment options like theaters and sports facilities.
• El Cerrito: Located only 3 miles away from Berkeley, El Cerrito is an excellent destination for families and culture lovers. Enjoy the recreational areas and shopping malls that this city has to offer. Nearby attractions include beaches and marinas, making it a great spot for outdoor adventures. Dining options abound, from restaurants to local wineries, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
• Bay Area: Just 3 miles from Berkeley, the Bay Area is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor scenery and family activities. With beautiful beaches and recreational areas, it offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Visit popular sites like Pier 39 and Jack London Square, along with a variety of dining and winery options to enhance your stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury 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 rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is typically the most economical. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports generally incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning a long road trip, seek 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 time to rent a car in and around Berkeley is January and February, when prices tend to be slightly low and demand is average. March and May can also offer decent options, with prices remaining average but demand fluctuating slightly. However, June through August see higher prices and increased demand, especially in July, which is the busiest month. Following this peak season, September brings lower demand and average prices, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

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	Slightly High	Average
May	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
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	Slightly High
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	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 $31.

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