$66 Car Rental Stanford, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Stanford

Renting a car in Stanford offers you the freedom to explore the area and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for tech conference attendees and those visiting Stanford University, a historic college that provides rich cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Key attractions such as the SAP Center at San Jose, located 16 miles away, and the Winchester Mystery House, 14 miles away, are easily accessible by car. You can also venture to nearby cities like Mountain View, just 5 miles from Stanford, where you can visit the Computer History Museum and California's Great America. Sunnyvale, 8 miles away, and Santa Clara, 13 miles away, feature additional attractions like Santa Clara University and the Santa Clara Convention Center. Having a rental car ensures you can make the most of your visit, exploring cultural, business, and family-related experiences without the hassles of public transportation. Enjoy the convenience of traveling on your own schedule in and around Stanford.

Most popular car rentals in and around Stanford

• Economy: The most popular choice for solo travelers, couples, and families, the economy car fits up to 5 travelers along with 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those attending tech conferences or visiting the Stanford campus, as it offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace while being economical on fuel. Ideal for navigating the neighborhood and surrounding areas, economy cars provide a practical solution for those looking to balance comfort and affordability during their stay.
• Midsize SUV: A versatile option for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is particularly appealing for those planning to partake in outdoor activities or travel with additional gear. With ample space and comfort, midsize SUVs are well-suited for both urban exploration and leisurely drives around the Stanford area, ensuring a pleasant travel experience for everyone on board.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is an excellent choice for families and groups, fitting up to 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle provides the necessary room for luggage and comfort on longer drives. Ideal for those seeking to balance practicality with a bit of luxury, fullsize cars allow for a relaxed and enjoyable journey through Stanford and its surroundings, making them a favorite among renters looking for that extra bit of space and comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Stanford

• Hertz: Hertz is a leading car rental supplier with 3 rental locations in and around Stanford, making it highly accessible for travelers. Known for offering a variety of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars. Travelers appreciate the flexibility and convenience of renting from Hertz, allowing them to explore Stanford and its surrounding attractions at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget provides a reliable car rental option with 1 rental location situated 3 miles away from Stanford. With Midsize SUVs and Economy cars being the most popular choices, Budget is favored by travelers who seek economical and practical vehicle options. The competitive rates and straightforward rental process make it an appealing choice for those looking to navigate the area comfortably.
• Avis: Avis features 2 rental locations, with the nearest being 3 miles away from Stanford. This supplier is known for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles, which cater to a range of travel needs. Avis stands out for its ease of access and efficient service, making it a preferred choice among tourists who want to explore Stanford and its surroundings with minimal hassle.

Where to go around Stanford

• Mountain View: Located 5 miles away from Stanford, Mountain View is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of culture and entertainment. Visitors can explore the renowned Stanford University, a historic college known for its beautiful campus. Additionally, the Computer History Museum offers a fascinating look into the evolution of technology, making it perfect for those interested in culture. For family fun, California's Great America amusement park is also nearby, providing outdoor activities and adventure.
• Sunnyvale: Situated 8 miles from Stanford, Sunnyvale caters to families and business travelers alike. The area features California's Great America, an amusement park great for outdoor activities and family outings. Stanford University is also in close proximity, enriching the cultural experience. The Santa Clara Convention Center serves as a hub for business events, making Sunnyvale a versatile destination for various types of visits.
• Santa Clara: About 13 miles away from Stanford, Santa Clara is a lively city known for its family-oriented attractions. The popular California's Great America amusement park is a highlight for adventure seekers. For those interested in education, Santa Clara University is easily accessible, enhancing the cultural aspect of the visit. The Santa Clara Convention Center is also a key venue for business travelers, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

10 tips to save on your Stanford car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you’re in need of an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save on costs, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to find lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size options offer a good 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 limitations before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel plans, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Stanford

The best value period to rent a car in and around Stanford is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand remains average. March also offers good value, with slightly low prices and demand. As spring approaches, April and May continue to provide reasonable rates with slightly low demand. However, June through August see the highest prices and demand, making this the most expensive time for rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	57.4°F (14.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average