Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from San Francisco to Seattle. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will be required to present a return airline ticket. Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification.
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$ 141/dayStarting from
US$ 143/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 249-US$ 720 | US$ 0-US$ 565 | US$ 423-US$ 880 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 393-US$ 720 | US$ 300-US$ 565 | US$ 861 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 259-US$ 759 | US$ 0-US$ 565 | US$ 425-US$ 934 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 270-US$ 985 | US$ 0-US$ 565 | US$ 427-US$ 1,357 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Premium | US$ 754 | US$ 0 | US$ 926 | Families, comfort seeker |
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 to the same fuel level as at pickup to avoid additional charges.
Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.
Plan refueling near the drop-off location to save time.
The average fuel price along this route is approximately $4.10 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control when possible.
Ensure tires are properly inflated to improve fuel efficiency.
Avoid unnecessary idling to conserve fuel.
Public parking garages in the downtown area typically cost $3-$5 per hour.
Street parking is available but often limited to two hours.
Consider using parking apps to reserve spots in advance.
Parking in downtown Seattle ranges from $4-$8 per hour.
Many areas offer free parking after 8 PM and on Sundays.
Park-and-ride facilities are available near the city outskirts.
SpotHero - Reserve parking spots in advance.
ParkMobile - Pay for parking directly from your phone.
PayByPhone - Find and pay for parking conveniently.
Enjoy world-class wineries and the picturesque landscapes of Northern California's famous wine region.
Discover the serene beauty of Crater Lake with its unique, dramatic blue hues.
Explore one of nature’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush rainforest to Pacific beaches.
Witness sprawling dunes and view mystical yet unique landscapes.
Route Planning: Plan your route in advance by identifying rest stops that align with your driving break schedule.
Fuel Stops: Ensure you have planned adequate fuel stops, especially on routes with longer gaps between gas stations.
Vehicle Preparation: Inspect the rental car's tires, brakes, and insurance details before beginning your journey.
Seasonal Awareness: Check weather forecasts for your travel dates, as certain parts of the route may have adverse conditions in winter.
Pack Essentials: Include a first-aid kit, water, and snacks since some areas might lack quick availability of such items.
Budget Management: Avoid unexpected costs by staying informed about toll roads and rental company policies for one-way trips.
Selecting a car rental company for a one-way trip from San Francisco to Seattle requires considering factors such as the variety of car options, the coverage of their location network, and the fees for one-way rentals.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | $$ | High | Extensive | Wide availability of pickup points , Diverse vehicle choices , Excellent customer service |
| Hertz | $$$ | High | Extensive | Frequent promotional discounts , Special vehicles like luxury and convertibles , Fast checkout |
| Budget Car Rental | $ | Moderate | Moderate | Competitive pricing , Streamlined online booking , Frequent offers for frequent travelers |
| Avis | $$ | High | Extensive | High-end options available , Membership benefits , Quick return services |
Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates
200+ countries and regions
Compare across providers
Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp
One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector
Most rental centers around San Francisco International Airport operate from 6:00 AM to midnight. It is advised to confirm hours directly with the rental company.
Rental car center is conveniently located near the airport. Follow the signs for 'Rental Cars' to find a free shuttle service.
Shuttle services run approximately every 15 minutes during operating hours, ensuring convenient access for passengers.
Vehicles can be picked up directly from the rental center. For one-way journeys, verify the designated drop-off points in Seattle when booking.
Booking in advance can help secure lower rates and ensure vehicle availability for this popular route.
Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ
