$29 Car Rental Durham, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Durham

Renting a car in Durham, California, offers travelers the freedom to explore the area at their own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park and the National Yo-Yo Museum, both just 6 miles away from Durham. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park, located 9 miles away, provides stunning scenery and recreational opportunities. A rental car also enhances convenience when traveling to nearby cities such as Chico, which is only 6 miles away, and Barber, located 5 miles from Durham. These locations feature similar attractions, allowing for a seamless exploration of the region. Whether you’re looking for culture, outdoor activities, or a romantic getaway, having a car makes it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This flexibility is especially appealing for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to make the most of their time in and around Durham. Embrace the ease of travel with a rental car to discover all that this charming area has to offer.

Where to stay in and around Durham

• Chico: Located 6 miles from Durham, Chico is an excellent choice for travelers seeking adventure and scenic outdoor experiences. With access to attractions like the Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park and Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park, visitors can enjoy culture and nature in one spot. Chico also offers a variety of food and drink options, including breweries and wineries, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Nelson: Nestled in the vicinity of Durham, Nelson is perfect for a romantic getaway or a serene outdoor experience. With local highlights such as the Sacramento River and Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park, this village provides beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities. The nearby beaches and water features enhance the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and enjoying nature.
• Blavo: Found in the Durham area, Blavo offers a blend of culture and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the historic Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park or take a family-friendly stroll through Bedrock Park. The Old Molson Museum Ghost Town presents a glimpse into history, enriching your stay with educational experiences. Blavo is a charming spot for travelers interested in culture and the outdoors.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to access lower rates and a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, 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 before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is often the most advantageous choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also work—just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience it offers might justify the additional 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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Durham

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Durham

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $29.

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