Car Rental at Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) from $48

Reasons to book a car rental at Sacramento International Airport

Renting a car at Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is a popular choice for those looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your schedule. This is especially beneficial for visitors interested in historical sites and cultural experiences. For example, the River Fox Train, located 2 miles from the airport, offers a glimpse into local history, while The Gallery at SMF, less than a mile away, showcases various artistic displays. Families can enjoy outdoor activities at Westlake Community Park, situated 4 miles away. Additionally, a rental car makes it easy to visit nearby neighborhoods such as Natomas Creek and Westlake, both just 3 miles away, where you can find more parks and recreational areas. Exploring the city of Sacramento, home to attractions like Discovery Park, the California State Capitol, and the Old Sacramento Waterfront, is also hassle-free with a rental vehicle. Overall, renting a car at Sacramento Airport enhances your sightseeing experience by providing the convenience to travel at your own pace and discover the region’s diverse offerings.

Most popular car rentals near Sacramento Airport

• Midsize: This car option is a top choice for couples and families, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize car offers a balance of space and maneuverability, making it ideal for navigating the roads around Sacramento. With this option, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring at your own pace while managing your luggage easily.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, and groups, a standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides ample room for passengers and their belongings, making it a versatile choice for those looking to travel comfortably. With an SUV, you can enjoy the freedom to explore the scenic areas around Sacramento with ease.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is ideal for families and groups, offering room for up to 5 travelers and accommodating either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle allows you to carry more luggage without compromising on comfort. Renting a fullsize car gives you the advantage of having extra space for your travel needs, making it a popular choice among visitors to Sacramento airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Sacramento International Airport

• Enterprise: Known for its friendly service and efficient operations, Enterprise has a rental location less than 1 mile away from Sacramento airport. With an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10, travelers appreciate the short wait times. The most booked cars with Enterprise are Midsize and Compact SUVs, making it a great choice for those looking to navigate the area comfortably.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Located less than 1 mile from Sacramento airport, Thrifty Car Rental offers a straightforward rental experience. This supplier is popular among travelers, particularly for Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, providing a solid selection for various needs. Expect a hassle-free process as you start your journey from the airport.
• Hertz: With a rental location conveniently situated less than 1 mile from Sacramento airport, Hertz is a favored option among visitors. Most travelers opt for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, benefiting from a reliable fleet that caters to different preferences. Hertz is well-regarded for providing a smooth rental experience, helping you hit the road quickly.

Where to stay near Sacramento International Airport

• Bombay: Located 6 miles away from Sacramento, Bombay offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor spaces for relaxation and recreation. Notable attractions include the Regency Community Park Off Leash Dog Park for pet lovers and Carl Hansen Park, which is perfect for family outings. With urban parks and a quaint village vibe, Bombay serves as a peaceful retreat near the bustling city of Sacramento.
• Elverta: Situated 7 miles from Sacramento, Elverta is a vibrant city ideal for visitors seeking outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Key highlights include the Aerospace Museum of California, showcasing aviation history, and the McClellan Aviation Museum. Additionally, Rio Linda Central Park provides ample green space for families to enjoy. Elverta's blend of recreational areas and educational venues makes it a great stop for families and culture enthusiasts alike.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Sacramento

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer adventures, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's usually best to book your SMF car rental as early as possible. Aiming to finalize your reservation 1-3 months ahead of your trip is recommended, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to navigate and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, as debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you save on unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan on spending considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges 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 Sacramento Airport

The best time to rent a car from Sacramento Airport is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low. February also offers a quieter experience, with average pricing and low demand. March and April see steady prices and average demand, making them decent options as well. However, demand rises in July, which is usually the busiest month. By October, prices increase and demand remains moderately high, making it one of the more expensive times to rent a car.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low