car hire in san fran

[hpretty]

visiting california this summer, san fran first. don't see the point in picking up the car at the airport on arrival, but how easy is it to pick car hire up from central san fran (union sq) on our way out? Bearing in mind we're new to driving on the right!!!

[jimmyb01]

You are right not to pick the car up fom the Airport, for two main reasons. Parking is a nightmare and when you do find one it will cost you $20-$30 A DAY. Also San Fran is one of the few US citys that is easier to navigate on foot. As for car rental all the major companies can be found in and around Union Sq, but I would book before you arrive. If you are planning to visit Alcatraz you should also book in advance, it quite often sells out up to two weeks in advance. As for driving on the right, once you are out of the city, driving in California is a dream.

[hpretty]

Thanks Jimmy - just what i thought.

[hpretty]

Thanks Jimmy - just what i thought.

Any thoughts on the other end - i.e. whether to keep the car til we fly out from las Vegas, or drop it off when we arrive?

[jimmyb01]

I would keep the car in Vegas as most Hotels offer free parking anyway, be aware that most companies charge a fee for one way rentals. Holiday autos is the company I booked with and they didn't. Are you going down Highway 1 to LA, fantastic scenery.

[Clanad]

The off airport vendors are usually a better bargain.  Check sites for Thrifty, Dollar and Enterprise. Enterprise will deliver the car to you, but they don't, generally, like to rent inter-city. You may have to pay a premium for dropping off at a city other than the origination for other brands as well..  The name brands, Hertz, National, Avis, etc., are usuallly more expensive.  A pretty good deal can be had for weekly rates.  Be sure the car you rent has cruise control, for the mileages you plan to cover. Additionally, you'll be more comfortable in a standard size or premium size auto rather than the compact. The exchange rate for the Dollar vs Pound is certainly in your favor right now.  Welcome to the U.S.