$70 Car Rental Stanford, CA

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What you need to know for your Stanford car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Stanford

Renting a car in Stanford offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting attractions such as the Stanford Memorial Church and the historic Hoover Tower, both of which provide rich cultural experiences. Families can enjoy the Stanford University Arboretum, an ideal outdoor destination for all ages. Beyond Stanford, you have convenient access to nearby cities like Sunnyvale, located 8 miles away, where you can discover Historic Murphy Avenue and California's Great America. Palo Alto, where Stanford is situated, features the Palo Alto Art Center and the serene Baylands Nature Preserve. If you venture less than a mile to College Terrace, you can find California's Great America and the Santa Clara Convention Center. Renting a car makes it easy for cultural enthusiasts, business travelers, and families alike to explore the diverse offerings in and around Stanford without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in and around Stanford

  • Midsize SUV: Accommodating 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior and ample luggage capacity make it perfect for those looking to explore Stanford and its surroundings comfortably.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car is another popular choice, also accommodating 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is great for families and groups who need extra space for their belongings while enjoying the flexibility of a car rental in Stanford.
  • Standard SUV: With enough room for 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases, the Standard SUV is well-suited for couples, families, or groups. It offers a balance of comfort and practicality, making it a great option for those planning to discover the attractions of Stanford at their own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Stanford

  • Hertz: With 3 rental locations near Stanford, Hertz is a top choice for travelers seeking flexibility in their car rental experience. Known for its reliable service, the most booked vehicles from Hertz include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, making it easy to find a vehicle that suits your needs. With its nearest location conveniently located in the area of Stanford, you're never far from your rental car.
  • Budget: Budget offers car rentals at competitive rates with a single rental location situated 3 miles away from Stanford. This supplier is favored by many travelers for its affordability and straightforward booking process. The most popular options available from Budget include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, providing you with versatile choices to explore the beautiful surroundings at your leisure.
  • Avis: Avis boasts 2 rental locations, with the closest being 3 miles away from Stanford. Renowned for its customer service, Avis caters to a variety of traveler needs. The most booked vehicles from Avis are also Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, offering great options for those looking to navigate the region comfortably. With convenient access to your rental car, you'll have the freedom to enjoy all that Stanford and its surroundings have to offer.

Where to stay around Stanford

  • Palo Alto: Situated right at Stanford's doorstep, Palo Alto is a vibrant city that offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore the Stanford Memorial Church and the Palo Alto Art Center, both ideal for culture enthusiasts. The city is also home to various shopping centers and dining options, including local wineries and restaurants. Its proximity to Stanford makes it a convenient choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the university atmosphere while enjoying a family-friendly environment.
  • Menlo Park: Located just 2 miles from Stanford, Menlo Park presents a delightful blend of culture and family-friendly activities. Key attractions include Bedwell Bayfront Park, which is perfect for outdoor adventures, and the United States Geological Survey, which offers educational experiences. With its variety of shopping centers and nearby restaurants, Menlo Park provides a relaxed atmosphere for travelers seeking both leisure and cultural engagement.
  • Sunnyvale: About 8 miles from Stanford, Sunnyvale is a family-oriented city known for its outdoor activities and business-friendly environment. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the historic Murphy Avenue and California's Great America amusement park, catering to families seeking adventure. The city also features shopping malls and various dining options, including wineries, making it a great spot for a well-rounded experience in the Bay Area.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Stanford

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra room, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other rentals might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure to return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur an extra charge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience can make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is simple.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Stanford

The best value period to rent a car in and around Stanford is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March through May also offer a good opportunity, with average prices and slightly low demand. However, June through August tends to be the most expensive time, with high demand and slightly high prices, making it a busy season for rentals. Following this peak, you may find October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
April57.4°F (14.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
May60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
June66.2°F (19.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July69.1°F (20.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September69.4°F (20.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October65.5°F (18.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November57.7°F (14.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
December52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$70
 
Our second best deal of the day
$71
 
Our third best deal of the day
$76
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies near Stanford?
You can find cheap car rentals near Stanford from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door cars. Dollar Rent A Car offers options such as a special or a midsize 2 or 4 door car starting from $11 a day. Thrifty Car Rental also has compact SUVs and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day, while Alamo Rent A Car provides midsize 2 or 4 door cars from $11 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find car rental deals near Stanford that fit your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Stanford.
What are the best luxury car companies near Stanford?
For luxury car rental near Stanford, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars starting from $16 a day and fullsize elite SUVs from $24 a day. Alamo Rent A Car provides premium elite SUVs starting from $36 a day. These luxury vehicles offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience in the Stanford area. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Stanford.
Can I rent a car one-way near Stanford?
Yes, a one-way car rental near Stanford is a convenient option for travelers planning to pick up their vehicle in the Stanford area and drop it off at a different location. One-way rentals are available starting from $11 a day. This flexibility is ideal for regional road trips or if your travel plans involve departing from a different city. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Stanford.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Stanford?
Yes, you can easily rent a car round-trip near Stanford, which is often the most cost-effective choice for exploring the area. Round-trip rentals are available starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your vehicle at the same location in the Stanford area generally helps you avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it a great option for local excursions and returning to your original starting point. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Stanford.
What are the best car rentals near Stanford?
Car rentals near Stanford offer a wide variety of vehicle types to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door cars, offering a balance of comfort and maneuverability
  • Standard 2 or 4 door cars, providing more space for passengers and luggage
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door cars, ideal for longer trips with extra room
  • Compact 2 or 4 door cars, perfect for city navigation and fuel efficiency
  • Midsize SUVs, which offer elevated seating and more cargo capacity
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, making driving in the Stanford area smooth and easy. Families often prefer SUVs or minivans for their spacious interiors, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for their needs. Choose a vehicle based on your group size, luggage requirements, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Stanford.

What are the best car rentals near Stanford for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Stanford for solo travelers are typically economy and compact classes, as they are small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace.
  • Economy 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $18 a day, fit up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, making them nimble on city streets and simple to park.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $11 a day, fit up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a bit more room for luggage while remaining fuel-efficient.
Both options comfortably accommodate 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, which starts from $11 a day and offers extra comfort for scenic routes in the Stanford area. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Stanford.

What are the best car rentals near Stanford for couples?
The best car rentals near Stanford for couples offer a comfortable balance of space and easy handling for two travelers.
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $11 a day, fit up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, providing smooth cruising for two with ample luggage space.
  • Compact SUVs, starting from $11 a day, fit up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a higher ride and more versatility for day trips around the region.
Both give a couple comfortable seating and sufficient trunk space without being difficult to park. For a special experience or scenic drives in the Stanford area, consider a standard convertible, available from $42 a day, which can fit up to 4 people and up to 2 large suitcases. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Stanford.

What are the best car rentals near Stanford for families?
The best car rentals near Stanford for families are those that offer ample space for everyone and their belongings, ensuring a comfortable trip.
  • Midsize SUVs, starting from $12 a day, seat up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, making them suitable for families with car seats and strollers.
  • Mini vans, starting from $17 a day, seat up to 8 people with space for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families or those needing extra cargo capacity.
These SUVs and minivans provide the necessary room for the whole family, car seats, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for exploring the Stanford area. It is advisable to book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability, and consider adding GPS for easier navigation. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Stanford.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Stanford?
Yes, the area near Stanford offers excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options from several providers. For example, Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day and electric vehicles from $11 a day. Dollar Rent A Car also provides hybrid options from $10 a day and electric vehicles from $10 a day. Thrifty Car Rental has hybrid and electric options available from $10 a day. The region has a growing public charging infrastructure, including fast-charging stations along major routes, which helps make planning EV trips convenient. Electric vehicles can also offer savings on fuel costs compared to traditional gasoline cars.
What is the best time to book a car near Stanford?
Booking your car rental near Stanford a few weeks in advance can often help with availability and pricing. While the area is flagged as "Not Seasonal," demand for rentals tends to be lower in February, when prices can start from as little as $11 a day. Conversely, July and September tend to be busier months, which may lead to higher rates due to increased demand. During major holidays or local events, rental prices can also fluctuate. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so booking 3-4 weeks ahead gives you flexibility to rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies near Stanford?
Car rentals in the Stanford area are available from reputable providers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car, offering a range of vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt provides options like midsize 2 or 4 door cars and midsize SUVs, which are versatile for both city driving and longer excursions. Enterprise offers compact SUVs and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars, providing more space and stability for highways. Dollar Rent A Car rounds out the choices with economical midsize 2 or 4 door cars and midsize SUVs. For navigating city streets and finding parking easily, a compact car is a great choice, while an SUV offers more comfort and cargo space for family trips or exploring beyond the immediate Stanford area. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Stanford.
What are good day trip destinations from Stanford by rental car?
For exciting day trips near Stanford, consider exploring Silicon Valley, located about 19 miles away, or venturing to the University of California, Berkeley, approximately 38 miles from the Stanford area. A drive to Silicon Valley typically takes around 1 hour, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the world of technology and innovation, perhaps with a specialized tour like the 'Silicon Valley Tour for Technology Lovers'. This trip is ideal for business travelers, tech enthusiasts, or families with older children. For a different experience, the University of California, Berkeley is also about a 1-hour drive, where you can explore its historic campus and the vibrant surrounding college town, perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers interested in culture and architecture. For these excursions, a comfortable rental car is key. Families and groups might prefer the extra space and comfort of a midsize SUV, starting from $16 a day, or a fullsize car, starting from $15 a day. Couples or solo travelers looking for good value can opt for a compact car, starting from $15 a day, or a midsize car, starting from $12 a day. Remember to fuel up before you leave and account for potential traffic, especially during peak hours, to ensure a smooth journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Stanford.
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 Stanford?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Stanford. 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 Stanford?
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 Stanford?
Budget car rental in Stanford can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $70. 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 Stanford?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Stanford. 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 Stanford car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Stanford?
To rent a car in Stanford, 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 Stanford car rental?
If you need to cancel your Stanford 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 Stanford 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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