Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from San Francisco to Sacramento. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
Notes: At airport location, if you are holding a foreign driver's license, please show proof of return airline flight that corresponds with your rental.
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.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 43/dayStarting from
US$ 44/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 43-US$ 71 | US$ 0 | US$ 128-US$ 838 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Large | US$ 44-US$ 67 | US$ 0 | US$ 130 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 44-US$ 1,653 | US$ 0 | US$ 131-US$ 1,663 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Pickup Truck | US$ 62-US$ 507 | US$ 0 | US$ 513 | Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage |
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.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges from the rental company.
Use gas stations near the drop-off location for convenience.
Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.
The average fuel cost along the route is approximately $4.50 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed and avoid rapid acceleration.
Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
Use air conditioning sparingly to reduce fuel consumption.
Parking in San Francisco can be expensive, with rates ranging from $3 to $7 per hour.
Consider using parking garages for long-term parking.
Street parking is limited and often requires permits.
Parking in Sacramento is generally more affordable, with rates around $1.50 to $2 per hour.
Downtown areas have multiple parking garages and lots.
Free parking is available in some residential areas.
SpotHero: Find and book parking in advance.
ParkMobile: Convenient for paying for street parking.
Parking Panda: Offers discounts on parking reservations.
Start at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, traverse through lush landscapes, and end in Sacramento.
Experience premium wineries and eateries in Napa before continuing your journey to Sacramento.
Pause in Yolo County for serene parks and natural habitats.
Dive into the cultural landmarks between San Francisco and Sacramento, including Asian influence in cuisine and historic points.
Pre-rental Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the rental car at pickup to avoid penalties for pre-existing damages.
Route Planning: Choose a route that balances scenic beauty and convenience, considering your available time.
Cost Management: Compare rental company costs and check for hidden fees like additional driver charges or expressive miles.
Fuel Management: Return the car with a full tank to avoid fuel surcharges. Identify gas stations near the drop-off location.
Rental Agreement Understanding: Carefully read the rental agreement to know all terms and conditions, such as mileage limits or insurance coverage.
Local Traffic Laws: Familiarize yourself with local traffic regulations to ensure safety and compliance while driving.
Select a car rental company that fits your travel needs for one-way trips from San Francisco to Sacramento. Consider factors like vehicle variety, cost, and geographical accessibility.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $$ | High-quality selection of vehicles | Extensive network in California | Modern fleet , Frequent deals , Dedicated customer service |
| Enterprise | $ | Wide variety including economy and luxury | Excellent coverage across cities | No extra fees for young drivers , Flexible cancellation policies |
| Avis | $$ | Comprehensive range of options | Strong presence in California | Compact to SUV options , Quick booking process |
| Budget | $$$ | Economical and luxury vehicles available | Accessible in major areas | Cost-effective pricing , Pop-up customer support at rental centers |
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Most rental companies operate from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM daily.
The rental car centers are consolidated at the San Francisco International Airport Rental Car Center.
Free shuttles run every 5 minutes between airport terminals and the rental center.
Consider renting with companies that offer 24/7 roadside assistance.
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