Sacramento, also known as the City of Trees, is the capital of California and home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. If you’re planning a trip to Sacramento, you might be wondering if you should rent a car. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of renting a car in Sacramento, as well as some tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Should I Rent A Car in Sacramento?
Yes, you should rent a car in Sacramento if you plan on exploring the city and the surrounding areas, especially if you want to visit attractions that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Sacramento has a few public transportation options, such as buses, light rail, and a limited streetcar system, but they may not cover all the areas you want to visit. Renting a car can give you more control over your schedule and allow you to explore the city at your own pace.
On the other hand, if you’re only planning to stay in the downtown area and visit the major tourist attractions, you may not need a car. The Sacramento Regional Transit District provides reliable service to most of the popular tourist destinations in the city. Additionally, many hotels offer shuttle service to and from the airport, so you may not need a car for transportation to and from the airport.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Sacramento depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Sacramento
There are several benefits to renting a car in Sacramento. Renting a car can give you the flexibility to visit attractions that are not easily accessible by public transportation. It can also allow you to explore the city and the surrounding areas at your own pace. Sacramento is located near several state parks, including the famous Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, which are best explored by car.
Renting a car can also be more comfortable and convenient than public transportation, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. A rental car can provide you with more space and privacy, and you won’t have to worry about carrying your luggage on public transportation.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Sacramento provides flexibility, allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace, and can be more comfortable and convenient for groups or those with a lot of luggage.
The Cons Of Renting A Car In Sacramento
While there are benefits to renting a car in Sacramento, there are also some cons to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Sacramento has some of the highest car rental rates in California, and you may also have to pay for parking at your hotel or other attractions.
Traffic can also be a challenge in Sacramento, especially during rush hour. If you’re not used to driving in heavy traffic, it can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, parking can be a challenge in the downtown area, especially during events or festivals.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Sacramento can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging, especially in the downtown area.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Sacramento Airport?
Yes, If you’re flying into Sacramento, renting a car at the airport can be convenient. Most major car rental companies have a presence at Sacramento International Airport, and you can pick up your car as soon as you land.
Renting a car at the airport can also be cheaper than renting a car in the city, as there are often promotions and deals available for airport rentals. However, keep in mind that you may also have to pay additional fees and taxes for renting a car at the airport.
If you’re already in the city and don’t need a car for transportation to and from the airport, it may be more cost-effective to rent a car from a rental location in the city. You can compare prices and availability online to find the best option for your needs.
Bottom line: Renting a car at Sacramento International Airport can be convenient and cost-effective, but you may also have to pay additional fees and taxes. If you’re already in the city, renting from a location in the city may be more cost-effective.
Tips For Renting A Car In Sacramento
If you’ve decided to rent a car in Sacramento, here are some tips to help you make the most of your rental:
- Book your rental car in advance: Booking your rental car in advance can help you secure a better rate and ensure availability.
- Compare prices and read reviews: Before booking your rental car, compare prices and read reviews from other travelers to find the best rental company for your needs.
- Consider insurance options: Rental car companies often offer insurance options, but you may already be covered through your personal car insurance or credit card. Be sure to check your coverage before deciding on additional insurance.
- Follow traffic laws and regulations: Be sure to familiarize yourself with traffic laws and regulations in Sacramento, and always follow them to ensure your safety and avoid any potential fines.
- Plan your route: Before hitting the road, plan your route and be aware of any potential traffic or road closures. Use a GPS or mapping app to help you navigate.
Bottom line: Booking in advance, comparing prices and insurance options, following traffic laws, and planning your route can help you make the most of your rental car in Sacramento.
Rent A Car In Sacramento
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Sacramento:
- Alamo: starts at $53 per day
- Avis: starts at $53 per day
- Budget: starts at $46 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $52 per day
- Hertz: starts at $52 per day
- National: starts at $60 per day
- Dollar: starts at $43 per day
Gas prices in Sacramento are lower than the national average, and you can expect to spend around $50 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.35 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Sacramento is comparable in price to renting in Seattle. You can find rentals for under $50 per day from a variety of rental companies, and gas prices are lower than the national average.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Sacramento
If you’re planning to rent a car in Sacramento, you may be wondering how to get the best deal. Here are some tips for finding the cheapest way to rent a car in Sacramento:
- Book in advance: Booking your rental car in advance can often save you money, as rates can be higher if you wait until the last minute. Additionally, if you book a non-refundable reservation, you may be able to get a lower rate.
- Consider alternative rental locations: Renting a car from a location outside of the airport can be less expensive than renting from the airport, as airport locations often have additional fees. You can also check if there are any rental car locations that offer free shuttle service to and from the airport.
- Use discount codes: Check for discount codes online, which can save you a percentage off the rental price. You can find discount codes by searching online or signing up for rental car company newsletters.
- Choose the right size vehicle: When choosing a rental car, consider the size of the vehicle you actually need. Choosing a smaller vehicle can save you money on the rental rate as well as on gas.
- Avoid add-ons: Rental companies may try to sell you on additional features like GPS or insurance. Consider whether you really need these extras before agreeing to them.
Bottom line: To find the cheapest way to rent a car in Sacramento, book in advance, consider alternative rental locations, use discount codes, choose the right size vehicle, and avoid unnecessary add-ons.
Wrapping Up
Renting a car in Sacramento can be a great option for those who want to explore the city and the surrounding areas at their own pace. However, it’s important to consider your itinerary and budget, as well as traffic and parking challenges, before deciding to rent a car. With these tips, you can make an informed decision and have a great experience in Sacramento.