Question 1

How much is a rental car per day in Merced?

Accepted Answer

The lowest daily rate for a rental car in Merced within the past seven days was $45. In the comfort of your own vehicle, you can make your way to whichever sights are calling your name.

Question 2

Can I rent a car from Merced Municipal Airport (MCE)?

Accepted Answer

Budget and Avis are within a quick commute of Merced Municipal Airport (MCE). After touching down, it won't be long before you're hitting the open road.

Question 3

What happens if I need to cancel my Merced car reservation?

Accepted Answer

That won't be a problem. If you cancel your prepaid rental at least six hours before the pickup time, you're likely to receive a total refund. It's a good idea to scan your rental policy as there are some exclusions. Click through to our Customer Service Portal for more information.

Question 4

Where can I go on a road trip from Merced?

Accepted Answer

Once you've covered all the interesting places in Merced, there's loads more to explore in the surrounding area. Pick up the keys to a rental car, toss your bags in the trunk and get on the road. Here are some road trips we know you'll love:

Head off to Santa Clara for a fantastic sightseeing experience. Around 80 miles from Merced, it has numerous cool attractions, including California's Great America.
Around 95 miles away, Concord is also a hit with travelers. Make time to take in Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Concord while you're here. It's one of the reasons people love staying a while in this buzzing city.
Make your way to Morro Rock to feel grounded in nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just relax in the fresh air. From Merced, it's about 140 miles away.

Question 5

How do I find the best car rental deals in Merced with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

It's easy to find an awesome deal with Expedia. Just choose the car class, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off locations, and compare offers from all the top rental providers. Save even more when you bundle your Merced car rental with flight or hotel bookings.

Question 6

How old do you have to be to rent a car in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Drivers 21 and above can hit the highway in Merced in a rental vehicle. If you're a young driver, a daily surcharge applies. You'll generally be restricted to a few car categories, such as economy and mid-size, and may also be required to take out comprehensive insurance. Always enter the correct age of the primary driver when booking to find out if any restrictions apply.

Question 7

What do you need to rent a car in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Two things — a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. Many car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may have to provide proof of alternative coverage if you prefer to opt out. We recommend checking with your rental provider to avoid any problems.

Question 8

What is the cheapest car rental in Merced?

Accepted Answer

$45 and $46 were the two lowest daily prices for rental cars in Merced within the past seven days. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.

Question 9

Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Yes, so you won't have to rebook a rental car halfway through your vacation. Click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and find a ride that's all yours for however long you want.

Question 10

Where can I find a Merced car rental if I am younger than 25?

Accepted Answer

The ability to rent a car if you're under 25 years in Merced often depends on the rental supplier you choose. Some businesses apply a surcharge for young customers between 21 and 24 years old, but other companies may not apply any extra costs for this age group. Be sure to go through the terms and conditions of your preferred car company to avoid any surprise charges when picking up your keys.

Question 11

What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Merced?

Accepted Answer

You should have collision damage protection to cover your Merced car rental against accident damage, theft and vandalism. And with Expedia, you can easily add this insurance to your vehicle at the time of booking. Providing up to $35,000 in primary coverage, it also offers 24/7 emergency assistance and no deductible in the event of a claim. Have your plans changed? If you cancel your policy before your scheduled collection time, you'll receive a full refund.

Question 12

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Merced?

Accepted Answer

You can find cheap car rentals in Merced from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door. Thrifty Car Rental has options starting from $11 a day for a midsize SUV, while Sixt offers fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $12 a day. These companies provide excellent car rental deals in Merced, allowing you to find good value options that still offer comfort and space for your trip. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia helps you find a cheap car rental in Merced that fits your budget and travel needs. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 13

What are the best luxury car companies in Merced?

Accepted Answer

For luxury car rental in Merced, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car. Sixt offers a range of elite SUVs, including a midsize elite SUV starting from $17 a day, a standard elite SUV from $20 a day, and a fullsize elite SUV from $21 a day, providing enhanced comfort and features. Alamo Rent A Car also provides premium options such as a premium crossover starting from $26 a day. These luxury vehicles offer a more refined driving experience, making them ideal for business travelers or couples seeking extra comfort and style during their trip to Merced. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 14

Can I rent a car one-way in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can rent a car one-way in Merced, which is a convenient option for travelers planning a road trip or not returning to their original pickup location. One-way car rental in Merced starts from around $11 a day. Providers like Thrifty Car Rental and Sixt offer one-way rental options, giving you flexibility for your travel plans. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in Merced and drop it off at a different location, making it perfect for exploring the wider region without backtracking. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 15

Can I rent a car round-trip in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Merced is well suited to round-trip car rentals, which are often the most cost-effective choice for exploring the area and returning to your original pickup point. Round-trip car rental in Merced starts from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your vehicle at the same location generally helps you avoid one-way drop-off fees. Providers like Thrifty Car Rental and Sixt offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary and enjoy your trip to Merced with a convenient car rental. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 16

What are the best car rentals in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Car rentals in Merced offer extensive vehicle variety to suit every traveler's needs. The most popular car classes available include:

Fullsize 2 or 4 door
Compact 2 or 4 door
Midsize SUV
Midsize 2 or 4 door
Standard 2 or 4 door

These options provide flexibility whether you need a compact car for easy city navigation, a midsize sedan for comfortable touring, or an SUV for more space and versatility. Families and groups often prefer SUVs or minivans for extra luggage capacity and passenger room, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for their needs. Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, making driving smooth and convenient. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 17

What are the best car rentals in Merced for solo travelers?

Accepted Answer

The best car rentals in Merced for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:

Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $13 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into parking spaces.
Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $13 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a little more room for luggage while remaining fuel-efficient.

Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives or prefer a higher vantage point, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $16 a day, for extra comfort and versatility. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 18

What are the best car rentals in Merced for couples?

Accepted Answer

The best car rentals in Merced for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:

Fullsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, offering comfortable cruising for two with ample luggage space.
Midsize SUV, starting from $14 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, providing a higher ride and versatility for day trips around the region.

Both options give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park, making them ideal for exploring Merced and its surroundings. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 19

What are the best car rentals in Merced for families?

Accepted Answer

The best car rentals in Merced for families are those with ample room for everyone and their luggage:

Midsize SUV, starting from $14 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, ideal for families needing space for car seats and gear.
Fullsize SUV, starting from $42 a day—seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, offering even more space for larger families or longer trips.
Mini passenger van, starting from $32 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, perfect for larger families with strollers and extensive luggage.

These vehicles provide the comfort and capacity families need for exploring Merced. For good availability and rates, especially during the peak months of July and September, it is advisable to book 4+ weeks ahead. Consider adding GPS for easier navigation if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 20

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can find electric and hybrid car rental options in Merced from several providers. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day and electric vehicles also from $10 a day. Enterprise similarly provides hybrid and electric options, both starting from $10 a day. Other companies like Alamo Rent A Car, Budget, and Thrifty Car Rental also have hybrid and electric vehicles available. Choosing an electric or hybrid car can help you save on fuel costs during your trip. It is advisable to book these vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead, as demand for them can be high. Plan your routes considering the vehicle's range and available charging points for longer journeys.

Question 21

What is the best time to book a car in Merced?

Accepted Answer

The best time to book a car rental in Merced to find competitive rates is often during the quieter months, such as February, when prices can be lower—rentals can start from as little as $12 a day for a fullsize 2 or 4 door car. Demand tends to be higher during the peak months of July and September, which can lead to increased prices and reduced availability. During major holidays and local events, rates may also fluctuate. To find the best car rental deals in Merced, booking 3-4 weeks ahead is generally recommended. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop closer to your travel date.

Question 22

What are the best car companies in Merced?

Accepted Answer

The best car rental suppliers in Merced include Sixt, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental, all offering a diverse fleet to match your travel needs. Sixt provides options like fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $12 a day and midsize SUV vehicles from $14 a day, which are great for general touring and comfort. Enterprise offers a range including compact SUV vehicles from $19 a day and fullsize SUV options from $54 a day, providing more space and capability for varied terrains or larger groups. Thrifty Car Rental features economical choices such as midsize SUV vehicles starting from $11 a day and compact SUV options from $13 a day, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. When choosing, consider a compact class for easy city maneuvering and better fuel efficiency, or an SUV for more space and stability on longer drives or if you anticipate varied road conditions. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 23

What are good day trip destinations from Merced by rental car?

Accepted Answer

Merced serves as an excellent starting point for memorable day trips by rental car, offering access to stunning natural beauty. The top destinations within a reasonable driving distance include:

Yosemite National Park, located approximately 69 miles from Merced, which is about a 1 to 2 hour drive. This iconic park is perfect for families and couples seeking outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and hiking trails.
Yosemite Valley, a specific and renowned area within Yosemite National Park, is about 70 miles away, also approximately a 1 to 2 hour drive. It offers breathtaking views of waterfalls and granite cliffs, ideal for sightseeing and photography.

For these trips, a midsize SUV or a standard SUV would be an excellent choice, providing ample space for luggage and passengers, and offering a comfortable ride for mountain roads. A midsize SUV starts from $14 a day, while a standard SUV starts from $19 a day. If you prefer better fuel efficiency for the journey, a compact car starting from $13 a day or a fullsize car starting from $12 a day is also a good option for navigating the roads to the park. Always remember to fuel up before heading out, especially for longer drives to national parks, and bring plenty of water and snacks. Booking your car rental with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your plans need to adapt to weather conditions or other changes. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Merced.

Question 24

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it’s worth checking the supplier’s rental terms before you book.

Question 25

Are there any long-term car rentals in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Merced. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.

Question 26

Do you need insurance to rent a car in Merced?

Accepted Answer

No, you don’t need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don’t have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.

Question 27

How much does it cost to rent a car in Merced?

Accepted Answer

Budget car rental in Merced can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $45. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it’s also worth exploring one-way car rentals.

Question 28

What are the top car rental deals in Merced?

Accepted Answer

No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Merced. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Merced car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.

Question 29

What do I need to rent a car in Merced?

Accepted Answer

To rent a car in Merced, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.

Question 30

What happens if I need to cancel my Merced car rental?

Accepted Answer

If you need to cancel your Merced car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	50.9°F (10.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
April	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	83.8°F (28.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	82.2°F (27.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.6°F (13.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

Popular car types	SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day	$45
Our second best deal of the day	$46
Our third best deal of the day	$49
From the airport to your hotel	Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports	Airport Car Rentals

$45 Car Rental Merced, CA

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Fullsize

$52

Economy

$45

Special

$46

Compact

$45

Midsize

$49

Standard

$51

Standard Elite Special

$73

Premium Pickup Regular Cab

$82

Luxury

$83

Fullsize Elite Special

$83

Mini Van

$87

Premium Elite SUV

$98

Oversize SUV

$177

Luxury Elite SUV

$288

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