Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Santa Clara County Airport, Palo Alto

Reasons to book a car hire at Palo Alto Airport

Renting a car at Palo Alto airport is a popular choice for tourists seeking the freedom to explore the surrounding attractions at their own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans flexibly. Whether you are interested in culture, adventure, or family experiences, a rental car allows you to easily access key sites. For instance, California's Great America is located 14 km away and offers outdoor fun, while the historic Winchester Mystery House is just 21 km from the airport, perfect for culture enthusiasts. The Computer History Museum, only 5 km away, is also a must-visit for those interested in technology. Additionally, you can explore nearby destinations such as Sunnyvale, 12 km away, which features Historic Murphy Avenue, or discover the vibrant city of Palo Alto itself, home to the Palo Alto Art Center and Stanford Memorial Church. East Palo Alto, located 3 km from the airport, provides access to the San Francisco Bay and Santa Clara Convention Center. Renting a car ensures you can enjoy all these experiences with ease and comfort.

Most popular car hires near Palo Alto Airport

• Midsize SUV: A popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a comfortable ride and ample room for your luggage, making it ideal for exploring the areas surrounding Palo Alto airport at your leisure.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or larger groups, the fullsize car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those who need extra space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey while you enjoy the freedom of the open road.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is an excellent fit for couples, families, or groups, as it comfortably holds up to 5 passengers and can manage up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between space and manoeuvrability, making it a practical choice for those looking to navigate the Palo Alto area with ease and convenience.

Top rated car suppliers near Palo Alto Airport

• Hertz: With two rental locations conveniently situated within 4 km of Palo Alto airport, Hertz is a popular choice among travellers. Known for its extensive fleet, the most booked vehicles include the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, which offer ample space and comfort for your journey. Hertz's reputation for quality service ensures a smooth rental experience, making it an excellent option for those looking to explore the surrounding areas.
• Avis: Located 5 km from Palo Alto airport, Avis is another top supplier preferred by travellers. They provide a reliable selection of vehicles, with the Midsize SUV being the most booked option. Avis is recognised for its customer service and straightforward rental process, making it an ideal choice for visitors wanting to navigate the local attractions with ease.
• Budget: Also situated 5 km away from Palo Alto airport, Budget offers competitive rates and a straightforward rental process. Like Avis, the Midsize SUV is the most popular vehicle choice among customers. Budget’s commitment to affordability and convenience makes it a great option for tourists looking to maximise their travel experience without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near Palo Alto Airport

• Sunnyvale: Located 12 km away from Palo Alto, Sunnyvale is an excellent choice for families and business travellers. This city offers a rich variety of activities and venues, including shopping at the local mall centre and exploring the historic Murphy Avenue. Don't miss California's Great America amusement park, perfect for outdoor adventures. For a cultural experience, visit the Winchester Mystery House, a notable historic site. Sunnyvale also boasts numerous dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, making it a well-rounded destination.
• Palo Alto: Nestled in the heart of the Silicon Valley, Palo Alto is just a stone's throw from the airport. This city is ideal for those interested in culture and family activities. Key attractions include the Palo Alto Art Center and the Stanford Memorial Church, both offering rich cultural experiences. The Baylands Nature Preserve is perfect for nature enthusiasts, providing serene landscapes to explore. With various nearby dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, Palo Alto is a vibrant place to stay.
• Mountain View: Situated 8 km from Palo Alto, Mountain View is a wonderful area for families and culture seekers alike. Explore the fascinating Computer History Museum or enjoy the thrills at California's Great America amusement park. The city is also home to the historic Winchester Mystery House, which adds a cultural touch to your visit. With a variety of nearby dining options, including excellent wineries and restaurants, Mountain View offers a delightful experience for all travellers.

9 tips to save on your Airport car hire near Palo Alto

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you identify the best match for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It is generally advisable to secure your car hire in PAO as early as possible to benefit from lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead is ideal, particularly before peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies necessitate a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It is simple to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Palo Alto Airport

The best value period for renting a car from Palo Alto Airport is April, when prices are lower and demand is high. This month offers a unique opportunity for those looking to secure a vehicle. Surrounding months like July and August also present slightly lower prices, albeit with higher demand. In contrast, October tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising alongside steady demand, while November follows with average pricing and lower demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
April	57.4°F (14.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly Low
May	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly Low
September	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
October	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
December	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average