$45 Car Rental Gilroy, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Gilroy

Renting a car in Gilroy provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. Whether you're a family explorer, an outdoor enthusiast, or a wine lover, having a rental car makes it convenient to visit key attractions such as Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, which is perfect for family entertainment. You can also drive to Rio Del Mar Beach, located 18 miles away, for a relaxing day by the ocean or venture to the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, just 17 miles from Gilroy, for outdoor adventures.

A rental car allows you to easily explore nearby cities like Aptos, home to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Mystery Spot, located 18 miles from Gilroy; Watsonville, featuring beautiful beaches and Mount Madonna Center, just 12 miles away; and Morgan Hill, where you can revisit Gilroy Gardens or enjoy local parks, only 10 miles from Gilroy. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, renting a car ensures a hassle-free experience while discovering the diverse attractions in and around Gilroy.

Most popular car rentals in Gilroy

• Economy: The most popular choice for solo travelers, couples, and families alike, the economy car comfortably fits 5 passengers and accommodates up to 2 medium suitcases. This nimble vehicle is perfect for navigating the charming streets of Gilroy and offers an economical option for those looking to explore the area without compromising on comfort or space.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV provides ample space for up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This versatile vehicle is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers who need extra room for their gear or purchases while enjoying the freedom to travel at their own pace in and around Gilroy.
• Fullsize: Preferred by families and groups, the fullsize car option accommodates 5 travelers and offers the flexibility to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle ensures you have enough room for all your luggage and makes it easy to manage your travel plans, whether you're heading out for a day of exploration or a weekend getaway.

Top rated car suppliers in Gilroy

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in Gilroy, known for its excellent customer service and well-maintained vehicles. With a single rental location in the area, this supplier specializes in Midsize and Premium SUVs, making it a great option for those needing extra space and comfort. Customers appreciate the friendly staff and the ease of the rental process, which enhances the overall travel experience.
• Hertz: Hertz, also with one rental location in Gilroy, is favored for its reliable selection of vehicles. Most travelers opt for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options, catering to various preferences and group sizes. Hertz is recognized for its efficient service, providing a smooth rental experience that allows you to hit the road quickly and start exploring the beautiful surroundings of Gilroy.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental stands out in Gilroy with its focus on providing value and convenience. With a location in the area, it offers popular options like Fullsize Pickup and Midsize SUVs. Travelers appreciate Thrifty for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore the region comfortably and affordably.

Where to go in and around Gilroy

• Aptos: Located 18 miles away from Gilroy, Aptos is a charming destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. The area is popular for its beaches and state parks, making it ideal for relaxation and exploration. Key attractions include the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, perfect for family fun, and Rio Del Mar Beach, which offers a beautiful setting for a beach vacation. The peak travel seasons are April and June to July, making it a great time to enjoy the area's attractions.
• Watsonville: Situated 12 miles from Gilroy, Watsonville provides a delightful mix of outdoor activities and beach experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning Monterey Bay, which is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, or relax at La Selva Beach. This city does not experience significant seasonal fluctuations, but the visitor numbers peak in June to July and September. Watsonville is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy both natural beauty and recreational activities.
• Morgan Hill: Just 10 miles away from Gilroy, Morgan Hill is a vibrant city that caters to families and entertainment seekers. One of the highlights is the Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, which is suitable for a fun-filled family outing. Additionally, the Morgan Hill Community Park provides ample outdoor space for relaxation and activities. The city sees peak visitor numbers in April and June to July, making these months ideal for enjoying its attractions and facilities.

10 tips to save on your Gilroy car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer driving, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, making it advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to find lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a great compromise between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium cars—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. 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 is usually the most advantageous option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also work, but ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many 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 if unforeseen issues arise during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 Gilroy

The best time to rent a car in and around Gilroy is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February is also a good choice, as it offers average prices with slightly lower demand. March provides slightly low prices, but demand increases, making it less ideal. July marks the most expensive month, with high demand as well, while June also sees elevated prices and demand. August follows suit with slightly high prices and average demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	55.6°F (13.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	54.3°F (12.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Gilroy

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Gilroy

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Gilroy. 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 Gilroy

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $45.

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