How to find a cheap car hire deal in Merced
Pick up a cheap rental car in Merced and hit the road for around RM210 a day. From short drives to open-road adventures, we'll match you with a rental that works for you.
The cheapest daily rental price in Merced is RM195.
Staying on a bit longer? Grab a weekly rental from RM1,426 and explore more than just the top attractions.
Book early to secure the best price for a Merced car hire. As well as cheaper rates, you'll have first pick of the most popular options.
Get behind the wheel with Enterprise, Budget or Hertz. They're some of the most reliable providers in the city.
The coverage Enterprise or another supplier includes with your Merced car hire can vary, so be sure to check the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra charge.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be the key to finding a deal. Click 'Return car to a different location.' Providers sometimes have to move vehicles from one branch to another, which means you can bag some fantastic one-way prices on a car for rent in Merced.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your ride with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. You won't get hit with overpriced refueling charges either.
Hit the highway without watching the miles and racking up additional fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and choose 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you explore further.
Best value car hire options right now
Taking the top spot for value is this company, with average prices of RM375 a day.
Coming in next is this provider, which offers daily rates of around RM271.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly RM290 a day with this supplier.
Want a car that handles just about any journey? The Intermediate rental category comes in as the leading choice for travellers visiting Merced.
Flying to Merced? Think about an airport pick-up
Take the hassle out of arrival day by picking up a car hire at Merced Municipal Airport. If you're flying to Merced through this hub, simply pick up your ride after landing and roll out. The drive to the city centre is about 5 kilometres and takes around 10 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Merced
Small: Whether you're zipping around the city or taking a quick trip, this car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to easy handling and excellent mileage.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this is the Goldilocks of rentals! 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: You've got the suitcases, the kids, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the capacity to pack it all in without breaking a sweat. Ideal for longer drives, this Merced car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: When adventure calls, an SUV answers. It's your perfect road trip buddy, ready for backroads, highways, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Select this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Merced that can handle the big jobs. Typically featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's supplies, luggage or the whole travel crew.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't mandatory, but is something to think about. If you're in an accident, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a hefty excess fee. Different Merced car hire providers have different insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
Make your trip smoother when you rent a car in Merced by adding a few handy extras. Think things like a GPS unit to make wrong turns a thing of the past, or reverse cameras that take the pain out of parking.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a vehicle in the United States is typically 21 years old. However providers may have their own rules, so always double-check your rental company's terms to find out where you stand.
Bringing the kids with you? Child car seat laws vary from one place to another, and the best setup may depend on their weight, height and age. Check if you need to add one to your Merced car hire booking.
You'll need some documents when you get to the rental counter. As a rule, bring your physical driver's licence, a credit card with enough balance for the deposit (most companies don't accept debit cards), and another form of photo ID. Your booking will lay out the exact list.
Spend a moment familiarising yourself with your rental. Adjust your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get a feel for its handling before you set off. And don't forget to stick to the right side of the road in the United States.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's normally around 40kph in built-up areas and 110kph or so on highways. Always follow the posted signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Because alcohol affects each person differently, the surest choice is to avoid drinks so you remain legal to drive.
One of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination is around 5pm. Make driving easier by avoiding peak periods in general.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and excursions. Pay with a card when you can, and keep a little cash when electronic payments aren't available.
English is the language most often spoken across the country.
Best hotels in Merced for drivers
Pull in, unpack, and ease into your stay at El Capitan Hotel. Offering parking as well as express check-in and air conditioning, this hotel is about 0.16 kilometres from central Merced.
Alternatively, make use of the accessible parking at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Merced. The city centre is roughly 3 kilometres from this option, which also features a pool and luggage storage.
Explore the full lineup of hotels in Merced and pick the stay that fits your itinerary. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to what you need — like 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with charging access.
You're ready to start exploring now you've locked in a car hire deal in Merced and your hotel. From Sunset Trail - Merced to Applegate Park Zoo and Merced County Courthouse Museum, there's loads to keep you busy here.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Merced
Around 88 kilometres southeast of central Merced, Fresno belongs on your itinerary. Steer straight toward can't-miss sights like African American Museum and Forestiere Underground Gardens.
Best Western Plus Fresno Airport Hotel and Ramada by Wyndham Fresno North are reliable accommodation options with parking in Fresno.
Alternatively, pick up your cheap car hire in Merced and then take off to Modesto. Around 56 kilometres northwest of Merced, John Muir Park and Modesto Art Museum are standout attractions that make the drive worthwhile.
Relax after a day of exploring Modesto at DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto or Days Inn by Wyndham Modesto. These hotels have arrangements for guests with cars.
Keep the wheels turning and road-trip it to Sacramento, around 161 kilometres northwest of Merced. First, visit Old Sacramento Waterfront, then spend some time at Redwood Park.
The only thing left to do now is hit the pillow. Econo Lodge Sacramento Convention Centre and The Exchange Sacramento, Curio Collection By Hilton have space for both you and your wheels while visiting Sacramento.
