$20 Car Rental São Carlos

These São Carlos insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 18, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around São Carlos

Renting a car in São Carlos offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage while visiting local attractions such as the Paroquia Sao Sebastiao and Paroquia Santo Antonio de Padua, both ideal for cultural experiences. The TAM Museum is another key site worth exploring. Additionally, you can easily venture to nearby cities like Ibate, which is just 12 miles away and features the same cultural landmarks, or visit the Condomínio Moradas São Carlos I and Parque Ecotec Damha, both located in the area. This flexibility is especially beneficial for families or travelers seeking themed experiences, allowing you to create personalized itineraries without the constraints of public transportation. Whether you're planning a day of sightseeing or heading to a specific attraction, having a rental car ensures a comfortable and efficient journey. With many points of interest within reach, renting a car enhances your experience in and around São Carlos.

Most popular car rental in São Carlos

• Midsize: The most booked car option in São Carlos, the midsize vehicle accommodates up to 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for couples and families looking to explore the area comfortably. With a midsize car, you can enjoy the freedom of flexible travel plans while managing your luggage easily.

Top rated car suppliers in São Carlos

• Localiza: Localiza is a prominent choice for travelers in São Carlos, boasting a rental location in the area. Known for its reliable service, Localiza focuses on providing Midsize and Standard vehicles, making it easy to accommodate your travel needs. Renting from Localiza allows you to explore the city and surrounding attractions with flexibility and comfort.
• Budget: Budget is another excellent supplier offering car rentals in São Carlos, with a dedicated rental location nearby. This supplier is highly regarded for its affordability and wide selection, especially Midsize and Economy cars, making it perfect for travelers looking for value. With Budget, you can enjoy the convenience of managing your itinerary while exploring São Carlos and beyond.

Where to stay in and around São Carlos

• Descalvado: Located 15 miles from São Carlos, Descalvado offers a blend of business and family experiences. Visitors can enjoy the urban charm of Lago Municipal Park, ideal for outdoor activities, or explore cultural sites such as the Senhor Bom Jesus dos Aflitos Church. For those interested in nature and adventure, Vassununga State Park is a must-see, providing beautiful scenery and outdoor opportunities.
• Ibate: Situated 12 miles from São Carlos, Ibate is perfect for families and eco-friendly travelers. Explore the area's botanical garden and parks, or visit the culturally rich Paroquia Sao Sebastiao and Sao Carlos Cathedral. These landmarks highlight the local culture and history, making Ibate a great spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the community.
• Condomínio Moradas São Carlos I: Found within São Carlos, this village offers a close proximity to cultural attractions such as the Paroquia Sao Sebastiao and the Sao Carlos Cathedral. Also nearby is Paroquia Nossa Senhora de Fatima, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience. Staying here allows easy access to the vibrant local scene while enjoying a serene environment.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around São Carlos

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the type of vehicle and desired features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV to accommodate extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the 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 advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—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 prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be acceptable, but ensure you 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 the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most 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 should anything unforeseen arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals with 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 São Carlos

The best value period to rent a car in and around São Carlos is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. Following this, September and October also offer good value with slightly low prices and moderate demand. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, making it a busy time for rentals. June and July also see high demand, with average prices, so planning around these months could be beneficial.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
August	67.6°F (19.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
November	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in São Carlos

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in São Carlos

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $20.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

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