One-Way Car Rental from Palo Alto to Sacramento | Compare Prices & Fees

Home One-way Car Rentals Palo Alto to Sacramento

Can I rent a car from Palo Alto to Sacramento?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Palo Alto to Sacramento. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for US residents

Documents required for international visitors

Form of ID: A valid physical United Kingdom national photo ID
Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, and AMEX. Some policies may require two credit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 27.00 per day or GBP 30.00 per day, depending on the rental policy. Specific fees and conditions may vary.

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (Please note that an IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.)
• EU Driving Licence
• UK Driving License (with DVLA check code/DVLA endorsement record) (In addition to your licence, either a valid and up-to-date DVLA licence check code or a printed DVLA endorsement record must be provided for all Approved Drivers. These can be obtained from the DVLA website www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence).

Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.
Form of ID: A valid passport
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Some policies may require two credit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 27.00 per day or GBP 30.00 per day, depending on the rental policy. Specific fees and conditions may vary.

How much does renting a car from Palo Alto to Sacramento cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 47/day

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 54/day

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 47-US$ 496	US$ 0	US$ 139-US$ 842	Solo travelers, couples
Large	US$ 47-US$ 53	US$ 0	US$ 141-US$ 469	Families, comfort seeker
SUV	US$ 53-US$ 143	US$ 0	US$ 160-US$ 428	Large groups, long drivers

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration：

One-Way Fees: Some rental agencies charge extra for dropping off the car at a different location. Be sure to confirm this cost in advance.
Drop-Off Location: Ensure the drop-off location in Sacramento is convenient and aligns with your plans.
Vehicle Restrictions: Some vehicles may have restrictions for one-way rentals, such as luxury or specialty cars.
Distance Policies: Check if mileage limits apply to your rental to avoid unexpected fees.
Airport Surcharges: Rentals starting or ending at airports may include additional location fees.

Smart Planning Tips:

Plan Pickup and Drop-Off Times: Make sure to schedule your rental during hours of operation to avoid extra charges or inconvenience.
Choose the Right Route: Research scenic routes or faster highways to enhance your travel experience.
Refueling Options: Identify gas stations near drop-off points to refuel the car and avoid extra refueling charges.
Understand Insurance Terms: Confirm your rental coverage includes liability and collision to mitigate unexpected risks.
Pack Essential Travel Gear: Being prepared with maps, a charging cable, and other essentials can ensure a smoother journey.
Book Early: Reserve well ahead to secure the best vehicle options and rates for your one-way trip.

Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

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Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning to avoid additional charges from the rental company.

Always keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Check the fuel type required for the vehicle to avoid engine damage.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost for this route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control where possible.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid excessive idling to conserve fuel.

Palo Alto Parking

Downtown Palo Alto has metered parking with a maximum limit of 2 hours.

Free parking is available in residential areas, but check for permit requirements.

Parking garages in the area offer longer parking durations at reasonable rates.

Sacramento Parking

Downtown Sacramento offers multiple parking garages with hourly and daily rates.

Street parking is available but may require payment during business hours.

Some areas near the Capitol offer free parking after 6 PM.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMobile: Find and pay for parking spaces easily.

SpotHero: Reserve parking spots in advance.

PayByPhone: Convenient payment for metered parking.

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes to Take Between Palo Alto and Sacramento:

The Direct I-80 Route

Interstate Freeway 2 hours

A straightforward drive on Interstate 80, directly connecting Palo Alto to Sacramento with minimal traffic interruptions.

Folsom Lake , Davis , West Sacramento

The Scenic Route via CA-160

Scenic Route 3 hours

A relaxed journey featuring views of the Delta and small historical towns along California Highway 160.

Antioch , Rio Vista , Delta Belle Vineyards

The Route via US-101 and I-505

Alternative Freeway 2 hours 45 minutes

Combines the US-101 and I-505 thoroughfares, offering a less congested path to Sacramento.

Mountain View , Vacaville , Winters

Popular Trips Along the Route:

Visit Wine Country via Napa

1 hour from Palo Alto

Discover exquisite vineyards and experience the charming ambiance of Napa Valley.

Adventure at Lake Berryessa

2 hours from Palo Alto

A perfect spot for water sports, hiking, and enjoying California nature.

Cultural Delights in Davis

30 mins from Sacramento

Explore Davis' farmer's markets, green spaces, and the University Arboretum.

Charming Historic Downtown Sacramento

Within Sacramento

Experience the rich history of California’s capital city with museums and old-town charm.

Road Trip Planning Tips

Route Planning: Research road options and update GPS settings before starting the trip.

Fuel: Fill the tank before departure and locate convenient gas stations en route to prevent delays.

Rental Features: Ensure the rental car is equipped with sufficient storage and technology for your journey.

Safety: Carry an emergency kit including a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and water.

Snacks and Comfort: Bring snacks and beverages for the drive to enhance comfort, especially on scenic routes.

Rental Agreements: Thoroughly read the rental terms to avoid misunderstandings on fees or one-way charges.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to selecting rental companies offering one-way car rentals from Palo Alto to Sacramento.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car	$$	High	Widespread
Hertz	$$	High	Widespread
Avis Car Rental	$$$	Extensive	Extensive
Budget Car Rental	$	Moderate	Standard

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Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:

Pricing Considerations

Base rental rate per day
One-way drop-off fees
Additional driver charges
Insurance costs
Fuel policy and potential charges

Vehicle Selection

Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
Fuel efficiency for long drives
Comfort features for highway driving
Navigation and entertainment systems
Vehicle condition and mileage

Company Reliability

Customer service reputation
Transparency in fees and policies
Roadside assistance coverage
Cancellation and modification policies
Reviews from other one-way renters

Information About Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Rental centers are typically open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Location:

Rental centers are located near transit-friendly areas with ample parking.

Shuttle Frequency:

Shuttles run every 15 minutes between major transit hubs and the rental centers.

Rental Fees:

All rates include taxes, insurance options, and any additional one-way fees.

Pro Tips for Car Rentals

Consider reserving your vehicle in advance to ensure availability during peak rental periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of choosing a one-way car rental for the Palo Alto to Sacramento route?

Opting for a one-way car rental provides flexibility and convenience, enabling you to design your travel schedule without the need to return the vehicle to the pickup location. This is particularly useful for routes like Palo Alto to Sacramento when traveling for business or leisure.

What are the average costs associated with one-way car rentals on this route?

The cost of a one-way car rental can vary based on factors such as the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the rental company's policies. Additional fees, such as drop-off charges, may apply. It’s recommended to compare quotes and promotions from different providers.

Are there particular restrictions or additional fees I should be aware of?

Many rental companies impose one-way fees, which cover the costs incurred for returning the car to its original location or maintaining their fleet. Additionally, terms regarding mileage and fuel policy might differ. Review the rental agreement carefully for these details.

What type of vehicle is recommended for the Palo Alto to Sacramento drive?

Depending on your preferences and needs, compact cars may suffice for solo trips, while families or groups might prefer SUVs or minivans. For a more premium experience, luxury cars are also available for rent.

How do I find the best deal on one-way car rentals for this route?

To secure the best rental price, consider using aggregator websites, booking well in advance, and keeping an eye out for promotions. Members of loyalty programs often gain access to discounts and special offers.

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