$67 Car Rental Northern California

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Northern California

Renting a car in Northern California offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your interests. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or a romantic getaway, having a rental car is convenient. You can visit key attractions such as Historic Main Street Placerville, located 9 miles away, and the picturesque South Fork of the American River, just 2 miles from Northern California. Families will appreciate the ease of access to the Gold Country Fairgrounds, 10 miles away, making it simple to enjoy outdoor experiences together.

A rental car allows you to explore nearby cities like Auburn, 11 miles away, where you can discover the Gold Country Fairgrounds and local museums. Similarly, Lotus, only 2 miles away, offers access to Historic Main Street Placerville and the breathtaking river. Having your own vehicle means you can easily navigate the beautiful landscapes and attractions, ensuring a memorable travel experience tailored to your preferences.

Most popular car rental around Northern California

• Midsize: The most booked car option in Northern California, the midsize vehicle is perfect for accommodating 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for couples and families who need space for both passengers and luggage. Renting a midsize car allows for freedom and comfort while exploring the scenic attractions of Northern California at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers around Northern California

• Enterprise: Enterprise is the top car rental supplier in Northern California, featuring 2 rental locations within an 8-mile radius. It is highly favored by travelers for its excellent customer service and a diverse selection of vehicles. The most booked options include Midsize and Mini Vans, making it an ideal choice for families or groups. Customers appreciate the flexibility that Enterprise offers, allowing for easy itinerary adjustments and luggage management during their travels.

Where to stay around Northern California

• Auburn: Located 11 miles from Northern California, Auburn offers a charming experience for those seeking outdoor and romantic settings. Visitors can enjoy activities at nearby ski resorts and recreational areas. Key attractions include the Gold Country Fairgrounds, perfect for family outings, and the Placer County Museum and Gold Country Museum, which cater to culture enthusiasts. Auburn also boasts various dining options, including wineries and restaurants, making it an excellent choice for food lovers.
• Placerville: Just 9 miles from Northern California, Placerville is ideal for a romantic and city-themed getaway. The area features recreational spots and ski resorts, with the Historic Main Street providing a quaint atmosphere for exploration. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the serene South Fork of the American River, while families can visit the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. With a selection of nearby restaurants and wineries, Placerville offers a delightful culinary experience.
• Georgetown: Situated 6 miles from Northern California, Georgetown is a fantastic destination for those who appreciate outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Visitors can explore local lakes and rivers, with Lake Clementine offering a perfect spot for relaxation and romance. Georgetown is also home to ski resorts and recreational areas. The charming Historic Main Street and nearby wineries and restaurants enhance the overall experience, making it a great choice for travelers seeking both adventure and culinary delights.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Northern California

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search based on vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking in advance, you are more likely to access lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles can offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter 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 the age of 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, search for 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 Northern California

The best value period to rent a car in Northern California is February, when both prices and demand are low. This month often offers the lowest rental rates of the year. Following closely are November and December, which also feature slightly lower prices with average demand. As summer approaches, June through August see increased demand and slightly higher prices, with July typically being the most expensive month for rentals. April can also be a busier time, with slightly elevated prices and moderate demand.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Northern California

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Northern California

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $67.

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