$11 Car Rental Redwood City, CA

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Top Car Deals in Redwood City

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What you need to know for your Redwood City car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Redwood City

Renting a car in Redwood City offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and nearby attractions at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those interested in cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs.

You can visit key attractions like Filoli, a historic building perfect for cultural experiences, located within Redwood City. For city experiences, head to San Francisco Bay, just 13 miles away. Sports fans can enjoy events at The Foundry, also in Redwood City. Additionally, nearby destinations such as San Carlos, just 2 miles away, feature the Hiller Aviation Museum, San Francisco Bay, and Miramar Beach. The neighborhoods of Woodside and Redwood Shores offer attractions like California's Great America and more scenic views of the San Francisco Bay. Having a rental car makes it convenient to explore these popular spots without relying on public transportation, ensuring you get the most out of your trip to this beautiful region of California.

Most popular car rentals in Redwood City

  • Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for travelers seeking comfort and space. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. With a midsize SUV, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring Redwood City and its surroundings while having ample room for your luggage and any gear you may need for your adventures.
  • Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car option accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type offers a balance of efficiency and comfort, allowing you to navigate Redwood City with ease. Its smaller size makes it particularly maneuverable, which is a bonus for city driving and parking.
  • Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can accommodate 5 travelers and holds up to 2 medium suitcases. It provides a comfortable ride with a bit more space than a compact car, allowing you to travel easily while still having room for your belongings. The standard SUV is a suitable option for those looking for a versatile vehicle for their journey in and around Redwood City.

Top rated car suppliers in Redwood City

  • Hertz: With a rental location conveniently situated in Redwood City, Hertz is a popular choice for travelers seeking reliable transportation. Known for their excellent selection of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, perfect for exploring the scenic beauty of the area. Enjoy the flexibility of managing your itinerary at your own pace while benefiting from Hertz's commitment to customer satisfaction.
  • Enterprise: Another top supplier in Redwood City, Enterprise offers a rental location that makes accessing your vehicle easy and efficient. Travelers often opt for Midsize and Compact SUVs, providing a comfortable ride for both short trips and longer adventures. Enterprise is dedicated to ensuring a smooth rental experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time in the region.
  • Thrifty Car Rental: Located in Redwood City, Thrifty Car Rental is recognized for providing great value on a variety of vehicles. Midsize SUVs and Fullsize Pickups are among the most popular choices, catering to a range of needs from family outings to hauling equipment. Thrifty emphasizes customer service, making it a favored option for those looking to explore the area with ease.

Where to stay around Redwood City

  • Palo Alto: Located 6 miles from Redwood City, Palo Alto offers a rich cultural experience with attractions such as the Palo Alto Art Center and Stanford Memorial Church. It's ideal for family and business-themed stays, featuring educational institutions and shopping venues. Enjoy local dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers.
  • San Carlos: Just 2 miles away, San Carlos is perfect for outdoor and family-themed experiences. Visitors can explore the Hiller Aviation Museum and relax at Miramar Beach. The area is known for its charming shopping centers and delightful restaurants, alongside a variety of winery options, creating an inviting atmosphere for travelers seeking both culture and recreation.
  • Menlo Park: Located 4 miles from Redwood City, Menlo Park is a vibrant destination for culture-themed, family, and business travelers. Key attractions include Bedwell Bayfront Park and the United States Geological Survey. The city also offers shopping centers and numerous dining options, including local wineries, ensuring a fulfilling stay for all visitors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Redwood City

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search according to the type of vehicle and specific features you need. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for warm-weather drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best options for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often leads to lower prices and a wider selection of vehicles, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a great compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can work as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but this could be worth it for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if unforeseen issues arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Redwood City

The best value period to rent a car in and around Redwood City is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February also offers a quieter experience with slightly low demand and average prices. March continues this trend with slightly low prices and average demand. However, June through August sees higher pricing and demand, making it the most expensive time to rent. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April55.4°F (13.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.9°F (14.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June62.4°F (16.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July64.4°F (18.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August65.3°F (18.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September65.5°F (18.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October62.4°F (16.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
December51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Redwood City

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Redwood City

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $11.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$11
 
Our second best deal of the day
$12
 
Our third best deal of the day
$15
 
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Redwood City?
You can find cheap car rentals in Redwood City from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door cars. Dollar Rent A Car, Thrifty Car Rental, and Alamo Rent A Car offer some of the most affordable car rental options in Redwood City, with prices starting from $11 a day. For example, you can find a midsize car from Dollar Rent A Car starting from $11 a day, or a compact SUV from Thrifty Car Rental also starting from $11 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also provides midsize cars starting from $11 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a cheap car rental in Redwood City that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Redwood City.
What are the best luxury car companies in Redwood City?
For luxury car rentals in Redwood City, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt, Enterprise, Dollar Rent A Car, and Alamo Rent A Car. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars starting from $16 a day, while Enterprise provides standard convertibles starting from $42 a day and premium elite SUVs starting from $36 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also features premium elite SUVs starting from $36 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Redwood City.
Can I rent a car one-way in Redwood City?
Yes, a one-way car rental in Redwood City is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $11 a day. Many providers available through Expedia, such as Sixt, Enterprise, Dollar Rent A Car, and Thrifty Car Rental, offer flexible one-way policies. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in Redwood City and drop it off at a different location, providing convenience for travelers exploring beyond the city. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Redwood City.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Redwood City?
Yes, Redwood City is well suited to round-trip rentals, with prices starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, making it a cost-effective option for exploring the Redwood City area and returning to your starting point. Providers like Sixt, Enterprise, Dollar Rent A Car, and Thrifty Car Rental offer wide round-trip availability through Expedia. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Redwood City.
What are the best car rentals in Redwood City?
Car rentals in Redwood City offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, making driving convenient. Families visiting attractions often prefer SUVs or minivans for their space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Redwood City.

What are the best car rentals in Redwood City for solo travelers?
Good car rentals in Redwood City 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 $18 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient.
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $11 a day, for extra highway comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Redwood City.

What are the best car rentals in Redwood City for couples?
The best car rentals in Redwood City for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, offering smooth cruising for two.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region.
Both options provide comfortable seating and ample trunk space without being difficult to park. For a special trip, consider a standard convertible, starting from $42 a day, for scenic drives around Redwood City. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Redwood City.

What are the best car rentals in Redwood City for families?
The best car rentals in Redwood City for families are those with ample room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $12 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $17 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage.
SUVs and minivans provide comfortable space for the whole family, car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them a great fit for trips around Redwood City. Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice for families. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for July and September, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during these busy periods. Consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Redwood City.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Redwood City?
Yes, Redwood City offers excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt provides hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day and electric vehicles starting from $11 a day. Dollar Rent A Car also offers hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day and electric vehicles starting from $10 a day. Thrifty Car Rental has hybrid and electric options available from $10 a day, while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car both provide electric vehicles starting from $11 a day and $10 a day respectively. These eco-friendly choices can help you save on fuel costs during your trip.
What is the best time to book a car in Redwood City?
From February, prices in Redwood City are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, and September also sees higher demand, when increased traveler interest can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Redwood City?
Car rentals in Redwood City are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt provides midsize 2 or 4 door and standard 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door and compact SUVs, which provide more space and stability for highways. Dollar Rent A Car rounds out the choices with special and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. For comfortable city touring or longer drives, consider a midsize car, while an SUV offers more versatility for varied terrain or extra luggage space. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Redwood City.
What are good day trip destinations from Redwood City by rental car?
For travelers with a car rental in Redwood City, several excellent day trip destinations are within easy driving distance, catering to various interests. These include:
  • Stanford University, Palo Alto: Located just 7 miles away, a drive of about 15 minutes, Stanford University offers a beautiful campus to explore, ideal for those interested in architecture, history, or a leisurely stroll. A compact or midsize car is perfect for this short trip.
  • San Francisco Bay: Approximately 16 miles from Redwood City, a drive of about 30 minutes, the San Francisco Bay area provides scenic views and opportunities for coastal drives. Consider a midsize SUV for comfort and space, especially if you plan to carry picnic supplies or beach gear.
  • Silicon Valley: About 25 miles away, roughly a 40-minute drive, Silicon Valley is a hub of innovation and technology, offering unique sights for business travelers or tech enthusiasts. A standard or fullsize car provides comfort for this drive.
  • Pacifica Beach: Around 20 miles from Redwood City, a drive of about 35 minutes, Pacifica Beach is a great spot for a coastal escape, offering surfing opportunities and scenic views. An SUV is a practical choice for families or couples bringing beach essentials.
  • Monterey Bay: For a longer day trip, Monterey Bay is about 60 miles from Redwood City, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach. This destination is perfect for scenic drives like the 17-Mile Drive, exploring coastal towns, and enjoying nature. For families or couples planning a full day out with luggage or gear, a minivan or a fullsize SUV would be a comfortable car rental for families in Redwood City, offering ample space and a smooth ride.
When planning your day trips, it's always wise to fuel up your car rental in Redwood City before heading out and bring water and snacks, especially for longer drives. These destinations are easily accessible, making a one-way car rental in Redwood City less common for these round trips, but convenient for exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Redwood City.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
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.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Redwood City?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Redwood City. 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.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Redwood City?
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.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Redwood City?
Budget car rental in Redwood City can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $11. 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.
What are the top car rental deals in Redwood City?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Redwood City. 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 Redwood City car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Redwood City?
To rent a car in Redwood City, 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.
What happens if I need to cancel my Redwood City car rental?
If you need to cancel your Redwood City 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.
Why should I rent a car in Redwood City with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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