How to find a cheap car hire deal in Oakland
Whether you need a compact for zipping around town or a bigger ride for longer drives, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Oakland. Choose from options averaging R 1,627 a day and go where you want for less.
Daily rental prices in Oakland start from just R 798.
Staying a while and want to explore beyond the main attractions? R 3,483 is the best rate for a weekly rental.
Here's your inside scoop on when to book. One week in advance is your sweet spot for driving off with the best price on a Oakland car hire.
Europcar, Hertz and Fox - Rent A Car are some of the best-known providers in the city. They're a smart place to start comparing offers.
The coverage Europcar or another supplier offers for your Oakland car hire can differ, so always read the fine 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 rental. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Just select 'Return car to a different location' when searching the cars for rent in Oakland.
Avoid any unexpected charges by booking a ride with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, and only pay for what you actually use.
Want to explore more without stressing about the number of miles you cover? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and drive as far as you like without the extra costs.
Best value car hire options right now
In the number-one spot for value is this company, with prices averaging R 1,596 a day.
Coming in second is this provider, which offers daily rates of around R 1,831.
The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly R 2,548 a day with this supplier.
Want a car that's the reliable option for most getaways? The Compact rental category is the go-to choice for travellers visiting Oakland.
Flying to Oakland? Think about an airport pick-up
Make arrival day easier by booking a car hire at Metropolitan Oakland International Airport. If you're flying to Oakland through this airport, simply pick up your ride after landing and go. The drive to the city centre is about 11 kilometres and takes around 20 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Oakland
Small: Whether you're zipping around busy cities or simply planning a quick trip, this car category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to great mileage and easy handling.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this is the just-right ride you need in your life. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are suited to small families and couples.
Large: You've got the kids, the suitcases, the snacks, the everything. Large vehicles have got the space to handle it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for longer drives, this Oakland car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and scenic routes alike.
Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Oakland big enough for a small crowd (and all their gear), a van is the roomy ride you need. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're best suited for group excursions, moving or business use.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your Oakland car hire gives you peace of mind. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or damage. Insurance policies aren't the same across all rental providers, so compare before you commit.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can make every mile feel easier. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Oakland.
Good to know
To rent a car in the United States, you usually have to be at least 21 years old. Some locations may rent vehicles to younger drivers at an extra cost, so carefully review the policies before securing your ride.
If you've got the kids in tow, check if you need to add a child car seat to your Oakland car hire booking. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to travel.
You'll be asked for a few things when collecting your rental car: a current driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card with enough funds for the security deposit. Debit cards aren't widely accepted. The full set of requirements will be laid out in your booking.
Spend some time getting acquainted with your rental. Set up your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get a feel for its handling before you set off. And don't forget to stay on the right side of the road in the United States.
Local speed limits are often about 40kph through urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Road signs will show if a different limit applies.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink at all.
Try to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) on your trip here. In addition to your bank cards, consider taking some cash for smaller purchases.
English is the language that most people speak in this country.
Best hotels in Oakland for drivers
Offering accessible parking, Motel 6-Oakland, CA - Embarcadero adds extra convenience to your stay. This hotel is about 3 kilometres from central Oakland and also comes with a 24-hour front desk and internet access.
Or take advantage of the valet parking at Kissel Uptown Oakland, in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt. The city centre is roughly 2 kilometres from this stay, which also features a bar and Wi-Fi.
Explore the full range of hotels in Oakland and pick the stay that suits your plans. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to what you need — like 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with charging access.
You're ready to make some memories now you've found a car hire deal in Oakland and your hotel. From Fox Theatre to African American Museum and Library and Oracle Arena, there's loads to keep you busy here.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Oakland
San Jose should be on your itinerary if you're eager to visit Japantown (San Jose) and Winchester Mystery House. This city is around 64 kilometres southeast of central Oakland.
They've got hospitality down to a fine art at Uptown Oasis San Jose Airport and Alura Inn, two reliable accommodation options with parking in San Jose.
Add Stockton to your trip lineup. Grab your cheap car hire in Oakland and drive around 88 kilometres east to take in top spots such as Historic Stockton Chinatown and Stockton Art League Goodwin Gallery.
Stockton has some good accommodation options such as University Plaza Waterfront Hotel and Red Roof Inn Stockton. Both are practical choices for guests with cars.
Looking to cover more ground? Reno is a popular road trip destination that's around 290 kilometres northeast of Oakland. Make a few pit stops at Bicentennial Sculpture Park and Truckee River Whitewater Park.
Check out the room availability at Circus Circus Reno Hotel & Casino or Eldorado Resort Casino at THE ROW. They make it a breeze to experience everything Reno has to offer. They also offer parking.
