Car Hire in Berkeley, United States

Before renting a car, check if your personal car insurance covers rental losses. Many personal auto insurance policies and credit cards offer coverage for rentals, which could save you from extra insurance fees.

Familiarize yourself with local driving behaviors to enhance safety and compliance.

Before returning the vehicle, clarify the return procedures with the rental company. Knowing where to drop off the car and any required inspections can streamline the process.

To secure the best rates, book your car hire at least 3 weeks in advance. Generally, December offers the lowest prices for car hires in Berkeley.

When booking, check if the rental company offers extras such as GPS or child seats. These can enhance your driving experience but may incur additional costs, so it's wise to factor them into your budget.

Renting outside busy areas can reduce costs and parking challenges.

If you're traveling with pets, confirm the rental company's pet policy before booking. Some companies allow pets but may have specific fees or restrictions, so it’s best to clarify in advance.

When renting a car, understand the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy means you return the car with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' means you return it with the same level of fuel. Full-to-Full is often more cost-effective.