How to find a cheap car rental deal in Merced
Pick up a cheap rental car in Merced for an average of $51 a day and drive away happy. We do the hard work for you by searching trusted rental companies, making booking quick and easy.
Drive off with extra savings by reserving your ride in February. With average daily rates of $36, it's the cheapest month to rent a car in Merced.
Walk away with a cheap rental car in Merced by booking in advance. You're more likely to grab the best car at the best price, simple as that.
Enterprise, Budget and Hertz are some of the top providers offering car rental deals in Merced.
Whether you go with Enterprise or a different supplier, be sure to check the coverage on your Merced car rental. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid add-on.
Choosing a one-way car rental can be your secret weapon for cheaper deals. Check 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for rent in Merced. Providers sometimes have to move vehicles from one branch to another, which means you can snag some excellent one-way prices.
Avoid any surprise charges by choosing a car rental in Merced with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, and pay only for what you use.
Travel without limits by choosing a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you want without extra charges.
If you're flying into Merced, you might prefer to skip the city pickup and book one of the car rentals in Merced Municipal Airport instead. Toss your luggage in the back and drive straight to your first stop.
Compare car rental types in Merced
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Merced gives you the freedom to explore for less. These nimble, fuel-efficient rides are perfect for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, comfort and fuel efficiency. Easy to maneuver in cities and with enough space for longer drives, they're a reliable pick for most journeys.
Large: You've got the kids, the luggage, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the space to fit it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this Merced car rental category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and winding backroads alike.
Van: If you're looking for a car for rent in Merced big enough for a small crowd (and all their gear), a van has space to spare. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group excursions, business use or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but it's worth considering. If you're in a collision, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying an expensive excess fee. Different Merced car rental providers have varying insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the details before booking.
From navigation systems to reverse cameras, the right extras can make every mile feel easier. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Merced.
Good to know
You typically have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in the United States. Being younger doesn't always disqualify you — just be prepared for extra fees or rules. Check the suppliers' terms and conditions before booking.
If you've got the kids in tow, see if you need to add a car seat to your Merced car rental booking. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to travel.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Merced
Don't leave town without ticking off some of the city's biggest highlights, like Sunset Trail - Merced and Applegate Park Zoo. Snap up a car rental deal in Merced and then start mapping out your sightseeing hit list.
When it's time to check in, Days Inn Merced / Yosemite Area and Quality Inn Merced Gateway to Yosemite offer a welcome break in Merced.
Shift gears and take off to Fresno. Around 55 miles south-east of central Merced, you'll find must-do sights like African American Museum and Forestiere Underground Gardens.
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fresno Yosemite and Best Western Village Inn are recommended accommodation options in Fresno.
Alternatively, collect your cheap car rental in Merced and head roughly 35 miles north-west to Modesto. Featuring John Muir Park and Modesto Art Museum, it's every bit as good as advertised.
Modesto has some comfy stays where rest comes easy, such as DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto and Days Inn by Wyndham Modesto.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Sacramento, roughly 100 miles north-west of Merced. First, visit Old Sacramento Waterfront, then follow it up with Redwood Park.
Next up: catching some z's. Econo Lodge Sacramento Convention Center and SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Sacramento North are waiting for you in Sacramento.
