$48 Car Rental Lafayette, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lafayette

Renting a car in Lafayette, California, offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Jack London Square and Berkeley Marina, both located 11 miles away, perfect for city and outdoor experiences. The historic Ferry Building, situated 16 miles from Lafayette, adds a cultural touch to your itinerary. For those traveling with family or looking for outdoor adventures, having a car makes managing luggage and planning spontaneous stops effortless. Nearby destinations like Walnut Creek, just 3 miles away, provide additional attractions such as the Lesher Center for the Arts and Ruth Bancroft Garden. The Saranap neighborhood, only 2 miles from Lafayette, offers convenient access to the same key spots, enhancing your sightseeing options. By renting a car, you eliminate the hassle of public transportation and gain the ability to create a personalized travel experience, making it an ideal choice for anyone visiting Lafayette.

Most popular car rentals in Lafayette

• Standard SUV: This car option accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. It is ideal for couples, families, and groups looking to explore Lafayette and its surroundings with comfort and ease. The spacious interior provides plenty of room for passengers and luggage, making it a popular choice for those seeking flexibility in their travel plans.
• Luxury: Perfect for business travelers, couples, or small groups, this car option also accommodates 5 travelers but offers the capacity for up to 4 large suitcases. The luxury vehicle ensures a high-end travel experience, combining comfort with style. Whether you need to impress clients or enjoy a special trip, this option enhances your journey in and around Lafayette.
• Midsize SUV: This versatile car accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV provides a good balance of space and maneuverability. Its robust design makes it suitable for various road conditions, allowing you to explore Lafayette comfortably while managing your luggage with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Lafayette

• Enterprise: Enterprise is the most popular car rental supplier in Lafayette, offering one rental location in the area. Travelers appreciate the flexibility of choosing from a range of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most booked options. Many customers highlight the convenience of managing their luggage and adjusting their itineraries easily when renting from Enterprise, making it a preferred choice for exploring the attractions around Lafayette.

Where to stay in and around Lafayette

• Oakland: Located 10 miles away from Lafayette, Oakland is a vibrant metropolis known for its family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore attractions like the historic college university, arena entertainment facility, and theater. Key highlights include Jack London Square, a modern square perfect for city vacations, and the Berkeley Marina, which offers outdoor and beach activities. With various dining options, including wineries and restaurants, Oakland is an excellent choice for travelers seeking culture and fun.
• Walnut Creek: Just 3 miles from Lafayette, Walnut Creek is a bustling city that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts. It features educational venues and a popular shopping mall center. Nearby attractions include the Lesher Center for the Arts, which showcases cultural experiences, and the Ruth Bancroft Garden, ideal for family outings and outdoor exploration. With delightful dining options, including wineries and restaurants, Walnut Creek provides a charming atmosphere for a memorable stay.
• Stanley: Nestled around Lafayette, Stanley is a quaint neighborhood that focuses on outdoor adventures and family experiences. Its recreational areas and hiking trails make it a perfect spot for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy local attractions such as the scenic lake and visitor center. Stanley also offers various food and drink options, including wineries. This neighborhood is ideal for travelers who appreciate a peaceful environment while still being close to vibrant attractions.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilizing filters on Expedia will assist you in finding the perfect car for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking early often secures lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars 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 accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is acceptable too—just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but for many, the convenience makes 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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Lafayette

The best time to rent a car in and around Lafayette is September, when prices are slightly low and demand is also at its lowest. January tends to follow closely with slightly low prices and demand, making it another good option. However, June through August see a rise in prices and demand, with June being the most expensive month for rentals. July also experiences higher demand, which can lead to increased rates for travelers.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Lafayette

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Lafayette

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $48.

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