How to find a cheap car hire deal in San Jose International (SJC)
Flight just landed? Pick up a cheap San Jose International rental car and be on your way for around Rs30,282 a day. From short drives to cross-country jaunts, we'll help you find a rental that keeps up with your trip.
Rs10,311 is the cheapest daily price you'll find for a rental at San Jose International.
Staying a while in San Jose and want to go beyond the guidebook highlights? Rs72,210 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
To get the cheapest price, book your SJC car hire around one week in advance.
Grab your wheels from Europcar, Fox - Rent A Car or Dollar, some of the most trusted providers at San Jose International.
The coverage Europcar or another company includes with your San Jose International car hire can differ, so remember to read the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will charge extra for it.
Consider getting a one-way rental. You might be able to score a bargain if the provider needs to move its fleet around. Find the best available rates for a car for hire in SJC by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in San Jose International with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. You'll also skip the costly refueling charges rental agencies tack on.
Travel without limits by booking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you need without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
In the number-one spot for value is this company, with prices averaging Rs32,024 a day.
Offering daily rates of around Rs27,077, this provider follows close behind.
The third option won't stretch your budget either. You'll pay roughly Rs22,901 a day with this provider.
The Compact rental category is a dependable pick if you're not sure which wheels are right for you. It's also the car type that's booked more than any other at SJC.
Compare car hire types from San Jose International (SJC)
Small: These cheap San Jose International rental cars may be small in size, but they're big on practicality. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're easy to manoeuvre, light on fuel, and just the thing for city driving.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, it's the definition of just right. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of interior space and fuel efficiency and are popular with couples and small families.
Large: Offering a more comfortable ride and extra tech features, this SJC car hire category includes full-size cars. With larger rear seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: Enjoy a higher driving position and a commanding view of the journey ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged country lanes or cruising down long stretches of highway, many offer all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.
Van: If you need a car for rent in San Jose International that fits a small crowd (and their luggage), a van is the roomy solution. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group excursions, business needs or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't mandatory, but is something you should consider. If you're in an accident, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a big excess fee. Different SJC car hire providers have varying insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the terms before booking.
Make life easier when you rent a car in San Jose International by adding a few nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to keep your trip on track, or reverse cameras that upgrade your parking game.
Good to know
You typically have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in the United States. Younger drivers aren't always turned away — just expect some extra rules or charges. Check the companies' terms and conditions before you book.
Add a car seat to your SJC car rental booking if you're planning to travel with the kids. Rules can change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size, weight and age is always the safest way to travel.
Come prepared to make pick-up as quick as possible. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no digital copies) and another form of photo ID. Have a credit card ready for the deposit too. If extra requirements apply, your booking will list them.
Driving in the United States can take some adjustment if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stay on the right side of the road.
Keep within local speed limits of about 40kph in urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Road signs will indicate if the limit is different.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Since alcohol's effects vary from person to person, the only way to be sure you're safe to drive is to avoid drinking.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and excursions. Pay with your card when it's possible, and keep a little cash when electronic payments aren't accepted.
Drive smarter from the start
Once you've collected the keys to your SJC car hire, the road is yours to conquer. Central San Jose is about 6 kilometres southeast and a drive of around 10 minutes if that's where your trip starts.
Allow roughly 25 minutes to get from San Jose International to the city centre during rush hours.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times for traffic around this destination. Try to avoid busy hours generally for a smoother drive.
Don't need a set of wheels the moment you land? Think about grabbing a car hire in San Jose instead of at the airport. That way, you won't be paying for days you don't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from San Jose International (SJC)
Before you move on, do some sightseeing around San Jose first. Highlights such as Winchester Mystery House and The Tech Interactive set the tone for your whole journey.
Shift gears and take off to San Francisco. Around 64 kilometres northwest of SJC, it's home to favourite sights like Golden Gate Bridge and Painted Ladies - Alamo Square.
Alternatively, grab the wheel of your San Jose International car hire and drive around 56 kilometres northwest to Oakland. Featuring Fox Theatre and African American Museum and Library, its attractions make a strong case for visiting.
Up for a bigger adventure? Santa Rosa is a top road trip destination that's about 137 kilometres northwest of SJC. Safari West Tour and Safari West make perfect pit stops.
