How to find a cheap car hire deal in San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
In search of a cheap San Francisco International Airport rental car? With an average price of R 2,150 a day, you're in gear for serious savings. Whether you're after an economy ride, a family sedan, or something in between, we compare all the top offers to get you real value.
September is the cheapest month to rent a car in SFO. With average daily rates of R 625, you can keep your spending in low gear.
If you want to get the timing right, book around one week ahead to score a cheap SFO rental car.
Check out the options available with Dollar, Thrifty and Hertz. These are some of the better-known providers at San Francisco International Airport.
Whether you choose Dollar or a different supplier, make sure you understand the coverage on your San Francisco International Airport car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others treat it as an add-on.
Booking one-way could save you cash on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Just click 'Return car to a different location' when looking for a car for rent in SFO.
Avoid any unexpected charges by booking a car hire in San Francisco International Airport with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, and pay only for what you use.
Travel without limits by booking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you want without extra charges.
Once you've collected the keys to your SFO car hire, it's time to map out your journey. Central San Francisco is about 21 kilometres north and a drive of roughly 20 minutes if you choose to head that way.
If you're not ready to take the wheel just yet, consider picking up a car hire in San Francisco instead of at the airport. Collect your ride when it makes sense for you and avoid paying for unused rental days.
Compare car hire types from San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Small: These cheap San Francisco International Airport rental cars may be small in size, but they live up to big expectations. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to drive, fuel efficient, and just the thing for city driving.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, comfort and fuel efficiency. Easy to manoeuvre in cities and roomy enough for longer drives, they're a great all-rounder.
Large: You've got the kids, the bags, the snacks, the lot. Large vehicles have got the capacity to fit it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance trips, this SFO car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and an open view of the journey ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged backcountry or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many offer all-wheel drive to keep you steady on any road.
Van: Usually featuring 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, functional, and ready to tackle whatever task lies ahead.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't mandatory, but it's worth considering. If your ride is damaged, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying an expensive excess fee. Different SFO car hire providers have different insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
Take your ride to the next level with handy extras like a reverse camera or navigation unit. They can make your journey easier and more relaxed when you rent a car in San Francisco International Airport.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a car in the United States is generally 21 years old. However individual providers may do things differently, so always double-check your rental company's terms to see what applies to you.
Bringing the kids with you? Car seat requirements vary according to the location, and the right setup may depend on their age, height and weight. Make sure you add the right one to your SFO car hire reservation.
Hit the road: Where to drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Before you go anywhere else, get in some sightseeing around San Francisco first. Major highlights like Golden Gate Bridge and Painted Ladies - Alamo Square make an excellent first impression.
Shift gears and take off to San Jose. Around 56 kilometres south-east of SFO, you'll find must-see sights like Japantown (San Jose) and Winchester Mystery House.
Add Fremont to your list of stops. Roughly 32 kilometres east of the airport, drive there in your San Francisco International Airport car hire to explore major highlights such as Flight 93 Memorial and Mission Peak Trail Head.
When the drive's been this good, why hit the brakes? Motor on to Stockton, around 105 kilometres east of SFO. From Historic Stockton Chinatown to Stockton Art League Goodwin Gallery, it'll round out your trip nicely.
