$8 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: September 3, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around University of California

Renting a car around the University of California, Riverside, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel schedule that suits you. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, the convenience of having your own vehicle enhances your experience in Riverside.

Within a short drive, you can visit key attractions such as the Fox Performing Arts Center, just 3 miles away, where you can enjoy cultural experiences. The March Field Air Museum, located 7 miles from the university, is another great spot for those interested in aviation history. For a family-friendly outdoor experience, Victoria Gardens is only 15 miles away, providing a pleasant environment for all. Additionally, having a car allows you to explore nearby cities like San Bernardino and Moreno Valley, both offering unique attractions and just a short drive away. Overall, a rental car enables you to navigate the beautiful surroundings of Riverside and its key destinations with ease, making your trip enjoyable and hassle-free.

Most popular car rentals near University of California

• Midsize: This car option accommodates 5 travelers and provides space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples or families. The midsize vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and efficiency, allowing you to navigate the area around University of California with ease while enjoying ample room for your luggage and travel companions.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, the fullsize car accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides extra room and comfort, making it a great choice for those planning longer excursions or trips where more luggage is involved. You can explore the surroundings of University of California without worrying about space constraints.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or smaller families, the compact car accommodates 5 travelers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly useful for navigating busy areas around University of California, offering ease of parking and fuel efficiency. It’s a smart choice for those who want to enjoy the flexibility of travel without the bulk of larger vehicles.

Top rated car suppliers near University of California

• Hertz: Hertz has a rental location situated 5 miles away from the University of California. Travelers often choose Hertz for its reliable selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Fullsize options, which are popular among customers. With a focus on convenience and quality, Hertz provides a solid choice for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Located just 1 mile from the University of California, Enterprise boasts two rental locations, making it a convenient option for travelers. Enterprise is well-regarded for its exceptional customer service and a strong selection of vehicles, especially the Midsize SUV and Fullsize. Many customers appreciate the flexibility and ease of the rental process, enhancing their travel experience.
• Budget: Budget features two rental locations, with the closest being less than 1 mile from the University of California. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget is a great choice for those seeking value. Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs are among the most booked vehicles, catering to various travel needs. Budget's commitment to affordability ensures that you can enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near University of California

• Riverside: Riverside is a vibrant metropolis, home to the University of California, Riverside. Staying here offers easy access to a variety of attractions such as the Fox Performing Arts Center and March Field Air Museum, both ideal for culture enthusiasts. The area is also filled with dining options, making it perfect for those looking to explore local cuisine. Additionally, Lake Perris provides a scenic spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
• San Bernardino: Located 9 miles from the University of California, San Bernardino presents a blend of business and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Glen Helen Raceway for adventure seekers or the San Bernardino County Museum for a cultural family outing. With numerous shopping centers and restaurants nearby, you’ll find plenty of options for dining and leisure.
• Grand Terrace: Just 4 miles from the University of California, Riverside, Grand Terrace is a charming city that caters to both business travelers and families. The area features educational venues and shopping centers, making it convenient for visitors. Key attractions include Victoria Gardens, a wonderful spot for outdoor family activities, and the Fox Performing Arts Center for a dose of culture.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you locate the ideal vehicle 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly 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 cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers younger than 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
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 generally the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might 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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car around University of California

The best time to rent a car around the University of California is January, as it usually offers lower prices and demand. February also provides good value, with slightly low demand and average prices. From March to May, prices remain average, and demand stabilizes. However, June through July tend to be the busiest and most expensive period for rentals, as demand peaks during these months. Following this, August shows slightly high prices with average demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	65.8°F (18.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	60.8°F (16.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low