How to find a cheap car hire deal in San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Your next ride starts where the runway ends. Pick up a cheap San Francisco International Airport rental car for around $244 a day and hit the road happy. We do the hard work for you by searching the best rental providers, putting amazing deals at your fingertips.
The cheapest daily price for a rental at San Francisco International Airport is $57.
Staying a little longer? Pick up a weekly rental from $195 and squeeze in a few road trips from San Francisco.
Here's your insider tip for booking at the right time. One week in advance is your sweet spot for driving off with the best price on a SFO car hire.
Rent your wheels from Dollar, Thrifty or Hertz, some of the most reliable providers at San Francisco International Airport.
The coverage Dollar or another company offers for your San Francisco International Airport car hire can vary, so remember to go over the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra fee.
Booking one-way could save you cash on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be relocated. Just select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in SFO.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in San Francisco International Airport with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. You won't get hit with overpriced refueling charges either.
Want to explore without stressing about how many miles you rack up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and go as far as you like without the extra fees.
Best value car hire options right now
Taking first place for value is this company, with prices averaging $173 a day.
Taking second place is this provider, offering daily rates of around $141.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly $187 a day with this provider.
The Compact rental category is a reliable choice if you're not sure which ride is right for you. It's also the vehicle type that's rented the most at SFO.
Compare car hire types from San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap San Francisco International Airport rental car makes getting around affordable and hassle-free. These agile, fuel-efficient cars are perfect for city driving and short trips.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, comfort and fuel efficiency. Easy to handle in traffic and with enough space for longer drives, they work well for most trips.
Large: You've got the kids, the suitcases, the snacks, the lot. Large vehicles have got the space to fit it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance trips, this SFO car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: When adventure's on your mind, an SUV's made for the moment. It's your ultimate road trip companion, ready for country roads, highways, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and improved safety features.
Van: With options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in San Francisco International Airport handles big loads and group travel with ease. They're spacious, versatile, and ready for whatever your trip demands.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers your out-of-pocket costs if your SFO car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, it's a safety net if something happens. Just remember that not all insurance policies are the same, so make sure you know exactly what's included.
Level up your ride with nifty extras like mobile Wi-Fi or a reverse camera. They can make your drive more efficient and enjoyable when you rent a car in San Francisco International Airport.
Good to know
To rent a car in the United States, you usually have to be at least 21 years old. Some places may rent vehicles to younger drivers for a higher fee, so always go over the policies before finalizing your booking.
Add a car seat to your SFO car hire booking if you're travelling with small kids. Rules can change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their age, weight and size is always the safest way to travel.
You'll need some documents when collecting your car. As a general rule, bring a valid driver's licence, a credit card with room for the security deposit (debit cards usually aren't accepted), and another form of photo ID. Your booking will lay out the exact list.
Driving in the United States may take some getting used to if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stick to the right side of the road.
Stay within local speed limits of about 40kph through built-up areas and around 110kph on highways. Road signs will indicate if the limit is different.
In the United States, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you intend to have a couple of drinks, pass the keys to someone else or choose another way to travel.
Drive smarter from the start
Get into the fast lane once you've collected the keys to your SFO car hire. You've got the freedom to follow your own road, but if you're headed to central San Francisco, it'll take you about 25 minutes to drive the 21 kilometres or so north.
The drive from San Francisco International Airport to the city centre in peak travel times can take as long as 50 minutes.
Try to travel outside high-traffic periods for a faster run in general. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
If you don't need a set of wheels as soon as you arrive, consider picking up a car hire in San Francisco instead of at the airport. Simply collect your ride when it works for you and avoid paying for rental days you won't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Begin with some of the leading attractions in San Francisco, like Golden Gate Bridge and Painted Ladies - Alamo Square. Whether you drive or find an alternative way there, set aside time for these highlights before you move on.
San Jose should be on your itinerary if you're eager to see Japantown (San Jose) and Winchester Mystery House. This city is around 56 kilometres southeast of SFO.
Or pick up your San Francisco International Airport car hire and take off to Fremont. Around 32 kilometres east of the airport, Flight 93 Memorial and Mission Peak Trail Fourth View Point are among the highlights that make the drive totally worth it.
Want to stretch this drive a little longer? Stockton is a popular road trip destination that's around 105 kilometres east of SFO. Historic Stockton Chinatown and Downtown Stockton Marina and Joan Darrah Promenade are the perfect pit stops.
