Car Rental at Gnoss Field Airport (NOT)

Reasons to book a car rental at Novato Airport

Renting a car at Novato airport is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the surrounding areas with ease. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage conveniently and travel at your own pace, allowing for a more personalized experience. The flexibility of having a vehicle means you can visit key attractions like Sonoma Raceway, located only 6 miles away, or enjoy a scenic ride to the Napa Valley Wine Train, which is 19 miles from the airport. Additionally, Sonoma Plaza, just 12 miles away, offers a charming atmosphere for those interested in culture and city experiences.

Novato itself is a vibrant city with attractions such as the Novato Arts Center at Hamilton Field and The Space Station Museum. Nearby neighborhoods like Bahia and San Marin, both within a few miles, provide more opportunities for exploration. Whether you are traveling with family or simply looking to engage with friendly locals, renting a car enhances your travel experience, ensuring you can discover everything this beautiful region has to offer without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals near Novato Airport

• Economy: This car type is a great choice for up to 5 travelers, accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy car is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for an affordable and efficient option to explore the Novato area. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban settings while providing the essential features for a comfortable ride. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, an Economy car allows for flexibility and convenience during your trip.
• Midsize: Perfect for couples or families, the Midsize car accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers a bit more room than the Economy, making it suitable for those needing extra luggage space or looking for added comfort on longer drives. Whether you’re planning day trips or exploring the local attractions, the Midsize car provides a balance of space and efficiency. It's an excellent option for those seeking a comfortable ride while traveling around Novato.
• Mini Van: Ideal for families or groups, the Mini Van can accommodate up to 8 travelers and up to 6 large suitcases. This car type is perfect for those traveling together, providing ample space for both passengers and their luggage. The Mini Van is designed for comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for family outings or group adventures. With the ability to transport a larger number of people, this option allows for a more enjoyable travel experience while exploring the attractions around Novato.

Top rated car suppliers near Novato Airport

• Enterprise: With 2 rental locations situated within 2 miles of Novato airport, Enterprise is a highly popular choice among travelers. Known for its excellent customer service, this supplier offers a diverse selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most booked options. The close proximity of its locations makes for a convenient and efficient rental experience.
• Hertz: Located 10 miles away from Novato airport, Hertz is another top supplier that many travelers favor. It is well-regarded for its Midsize and Economy vehicle options, providing a good balance of comfort and affordability. With a single rental location, Hertz maintains a streamlined process for vehicle pickup and return, making it a reliable choice for your car rental needs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Also situated 10 miles from Novato airport, Thrifty Car Rental is known for its competitive offerings. The most popular vehicles from Thrifty include Fullsize Pickup and Midsize cars, catering to a variety of preferences. Their single location ensures that you can efficiently pick up and drop off your rental, allowing for a stress-free travel experience.

Where to stay near Novato Airport

• Novato: Staying in Novato allows you to immerse yourself in an eco-friendly adventure experience. With attractions such as the Novato Arts Center at Hamilton Field for culture enthusiasts and the Sonoma Raceway for motorsport fans, there's plenty to explore. Enjoy nearby recreational areas and indulge in local wineries and restaurants for a complete experience.
• Petaluma: Located 8 miles from Novato, Petaluma offers a vibrant blend of outdoor scenery and adventure. This charming city features the Petaluma Arts Center for art lovers and the Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue for eco-friendly explorations. With easy access to beaches and nature reserves, Petaluma is perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
• Sonoma: About 12 miles from Novato, Sonoma is ideal for a family-friendly getaway. Experience the historic charm of Sonoma Plaza and thrilling races at Sonoma Raceway. The city also boasts beautiful urban parks and wineries, making it a great spot for outdoor activities and culinary experiences.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Novato

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's usually best to book your car rental as early as possible. Reserving your vehicle 1-3 months ahead of time is optimal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—like SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always review the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are often more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
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 option is typically the most advantageous. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Novato Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Novato Airport is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low. April and May also offer reasonable options, with average prices and lower demand. However, June through August see higher prices and demand, making these months the most expensive for car rentals, particularly August. Following this peak, prices return to average levels in September, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.