$52 Car Rental University of California, CA

These University of California insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 21, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around University of California

Renting a car around the University of California, Davis, offers travelers significant freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as the UC Davis Arboretum, located less than 1 mile away, which is perfect for outdoor family experiences. The Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts and the Bohart Museum of Entomology, both also within a mile, provide excellent cultural experiences. Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to explore the larger region, including the vibrant city of Sacramento, which features Discovery Park and the California State Capitol. The charming city of Davis has its own unique spots, including the El Macero Country Club and various attractions nearby. Central Davis, less than 1 mile from the university, offers easy access to the same key attractions, making it ideal for families and individuals alike. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans, allowing you to make the most of your visit to the University of California and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals near University of California

• Midsize SUV: This car is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. Its spacious interior ensures comfort during your travels around the University of California while providing the flexibility to manage your luggage effortlessly. With a midsize SUV, you can explore the area at your own pace, making it a popular option among renters seeking convenience and comfort.
• Standard SUV AWD: Ideal for couples and families, this vehicle can comfortably accommodate 5 travelers with room for up to 2 small suitcases. The all-wheel drive feature enhances your driving experience, especially if you're navigating varying terrains around the University of California. This car type is frequently booked for its versatility and ease of handling, perfect for those who want to enjoy the freedom of road trips without compromising comfort.
• Midsize: Perfect for couples and families, this car type can hold up to 5 travelers along with 3 large suitcases, making it a practical option for those needing space for luggage. The midsize car is favored for its balance of maneuverability and comfort, allowing you to navigate around the University of California with ease. Travelers appreciate this option for its ability to accommodate various needs while still being manageable for city driving.

Top rated car suppliers near University of California

• Enterprise: With two rental locations within 4 miles of the University of California, Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers. Known for its friendly service, this supplier boasts an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10. Many customers prefer renting Midsize and Compact SUVs, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.

Where to stay near University of California

• Sacramento: A bustling metropolis, Sacramento is home to the University of California, Davis. This vibrant city is perfect for outdoor, family, and city-themed experiences. Key attractions include Discovery Park, ideal for an urban family outing, and the historic California State Capitol. Visitors can also explore the Old Sacramento Waterfront, which offers engaging family activities. With a variety of nearby dining options, including wineries and restaurants, Sacramento is an excellent choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a diverse cultural scene.
• Allendale: Located 12 miles from the University of California, Davis, Allendale is a charming village that offers outdoor and family-themed experiences. The UC Davis Arboretum is a beautiful spot for nature lovers, while the Vacaville Museum provides a glimpse into local history. Rotary Park is a landmark worth visiting. Allendale is also home to several nearby wineries and restaurants, making it a delightful place to stay for those looking to enjoy nature and local cuisine.
• Central Clarksburg: Situated 14 miles from the University of California, Davis, Central Clarksburg is a quaint village perfect for those seeking entertainment and outdoor experiences. The area features a marina and is close to attractions like the California State Capitol and Sacramento Capitol Park, which are suitable for cultural exploration. With nearby wineries, Central Clarksburg offers a romantic setting for couples or anyone looking to enjoy the scenic beauty and local flavors.

10 tips to save on your car rental around University of California

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may 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 rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling arrangements, which are fine as well—just be sure to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may be worth 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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out 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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car around University of California

The best time to rent a car around the University of California is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February also offers great value, as prices remain slightly low with reduced demand. Moving into March through May, prices are average, but demand can increase. However, June through July see higher prices and demand, making it one of the busiest and most expensive times to rent a car. August returns to slightly high prices with average demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average