Car Rentals in Redwood City, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Redwood City

Renting a car in Redwood City provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This choice is ideal for those interested in outdoor activities, family outings, or cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit notable attractions such as Filoli, a historic building perfect for cultural experiences, and The Foundry, a stadium offering sports events, both located within Redwood City. Moreover, you can venture 21 km to the vibrant neighbourhood of San Francisco Bay for an urban experience.

Having a car also allows you to explore nearby destinations like San Carlos, just 3 km away, where you can discover the Hiller Aviation Museum, or head to Woodside and enjoy California’s Great America and the Computer History Museum. Redwood Shores, another neighbourhood close by, features beautiful spots like Miramar Beach and Filoli. A rental car makes it convenient to manage luggage and offers the flexibility to follow your itinerary, making it a practical choice for all types of travellers visiting the Redwood City area.

Where to stay around Redwood City

• Palo Alto: Located 9 km from Redwood City, Palo Alto offers a rich cultural experience perfect for families and business travellers alike. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as the Palo Alto Art Center and the historic Stanford Memorial Church. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Baylands Nature Preserve is a must-see. Dining options abound, including local wineries and a variety of restaurants.
• San Carlos: Just 3 km away from Redwood City, San Carlos is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. With attractions like the Hiller Aviation Museum and the scenic Miramar Beach, there’s plenty to explore. The San Francisco Bay neighbourhood also provides lovely views and activities. Numerous dining options, including local wineries, ensure you have a delightful culinary experience.
• Menlo Park: Situated 6 km from Redwood City, Menlo Park is a vibrant area known for its cultural and family-friendly atmosphere. Key highlights include Bedwell Bayfront Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and the United States Geological Survey library for educational pursuits. Families will also appreciate the nearby California's Great America amusement park. Various wineries and restaurants offer excellent local food and drink options.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Redwood City

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those summer days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary greatly depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to access lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to navigate in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This guideline can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your travels. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.