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Car rental in Calera, AL

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Rental cars in Calera, AL

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Calera, EN

Car rental options in Calera for your trip

Nestled in the heart of Alabama, Calera offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. With its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and proximity to natural wonders, this charming city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Booking a rental car in Calera is the ideal way to make the most of your visit, allowing you to discover the city's hidden treasures and venture into the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Recent reviews

Renault TWINGO II 2014

Eric and Valerie have made it impossible for me to ever rent from one of the big international car rental companies again. This was my third rental with them and they are everything the big guys are not. They are friendly, efficient, customer focused are most importantly really easy to deal with. Their cars are great as well.

Sally
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Kia K5 2021

The host, the car, and the whole Turo experience was 10/10. The price was fantastic and the whole experience was seamless. We had weird hours we wanted to leave and return the car that would not have worked with a car rental agency, but Angel and Turo made the whole process easy and seamless. I’m a bigger guy so I was worried about how comfortable the car would be and it was perfect. The great ride made our whole vacation possible and comfortable. I really appreciated the vehicles safety features too!

Daniel Alexander
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Nissan Altima 2025

The Nissan Altima was great. Good mpg, clean, lots of power, great response time. The car needed to be picked up at an off site location called, economy car rental at 2367 India street. A proximity 2 1/2 miles from the airport. You will need to find a ride to their location. The price of taxi will be $30, however we took the free shuttle to the car rental center then walked 20 minutes the rest of the way. The team at this location did a great job, fast, friendly, polite, and after returning they able to offer a ride back to the airport. We would rent this Altima again, and I would recommend this vehicle.

Cori
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Megan
Nissan LEAF 2016

Easy pick up and drop off. Car was very clean inside. A/C blows super cold even when it's 100 degrees out!! The windows are not tinted so I suggest bringing your own sun shades if you are going to be parked anywhere but the shade in the summer. Luckily I had those and that made my trip much better. The flip down visors do have the extenders to help block sun while driving thankfully. Charging prices are comparable to current gas prices - about $45 to get 250 miles of charge over a few sessions which is the same as I get from a full tank in my Toyota Yaris. This car DOES have the CHAdeMO fast charge input so it's 30-50 seconds per mile to charge depending on the fast charger & whether you're running the car (AC/radio) or it's fully off. Radio speakers were a little blown out so I had to adjust some settings to listen to my audiobooks but it was easy to do. I had no problem driving from the pickup spot to Kyle, then to the airport, and back into town without needing a charge which was about 90 miles, mostly highway. Just like any Turo rental make sure to take your own photos at pickup and drop off since scratches and such aren't usually documented after every drive by the car owners which seems standard in my experience. Overall a great deal, best price in town especially for a last minute rental. I requested the rental at 9pm on a Tuesday after my personal car died and was able to get this the next morning with no issue. Will definitely keep them in mind when I need a rental near by. Thanks again!

Megan
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Cary F.
Honda Civic 2012

First, I contemplated leaving a 4 star review for a few reasons. However, the prompt response to the issue with the original vehicle reserved, partly due to luck that someone happened to be onsite with the car, and the flexibility with returning the vehicle without requiring washing and vacuuming is deserving of some grace. The price for 5 day/4 night rental was fantastic, around $150 total. I certainly didn't expect a car in pristine shape for the cost. This car is a part of a Turo "rental company" fleet. It seems like a company that buys cheap, used cars to rent out. There are 12-15 cars parked behind a strip mall 8-10ish minutes from the airport in an area I was glad we were picking up and dropping off midday rather than the evening. The hybrid we originally reserved had stained seats and a lot of cosmetic wear. One tire looked like it was on a spare wheel and didn't have a lot of life left, honestly. A lot of the roads in San Diego aren't exactly in great shape, I was concerned about getting a flat. When we turned the car on to leave we immediately got check engine lights and a "pull over immediately" message. Fortunately, someone with the "rental company" was on site and qas able to quickly switched cars for us. It wasn't a hybrid, though. We didn't plan on a lot of driving, but originally opted for a hybrid to save money since we had two days of freeway driving. We definitely spent more on gas then originally planned. If there wasn't someone available onsite to help, it could have been a much longer ordeal which is a terrible way to start a vacation. Communication day of pick up felt slow with the owner. I didn't think to look back to the 2 month old message about how to find the car. I received a message from Turo saying we'd be sent details the day before the trip. I never got that confirmation text or measage the day before or day of pick up from the actual rental owner. When I first reached out to the rental company through the turo app to find the car at pick up time, I didn't get a response. I finally found a way to text someone about 20 minutes later. We did get a pretty quick response that way, but it's frustrating to be in a random parking lot messaging through an app and not get a response. The Honda interior is definitely cleaner than the hybrid we reserved, but the exterior, not so much. Its been side swiped and has a lot of sun damage. The TPMS light was on the whole time, but the actual tire pressure was fine. There was also a rattle and grinding noise when accelerating from a stop or on a hill, but it didn't cause an issue. The car drives fine for a 14-15 year old car, it's just a little noisy and you feel all the bumps on the road. I understand with the cheaper cost of renting through Turo amd choosing a 12-15 year old car, I'm not getting a newer car like I would with a standard rental company or paying more for a newer car. That said, with my last few Turo rentals, it feels a lot of these Turo "rental companies" aren't checking their cars or doing much more than standard maintenance as frequently as they should when they have over 150,000 miles on them. The confirmation message also suggested the cars are kept in great shape. These cars were not in great shape by any stretch of the imagination. No one wants to be on vacation and have their car break down or even be worried that the car they're driving is gonna get a flat or break down.

Cary F.
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Toyota Camry Hybrid 2025

Kush was flexible and kind. Making the pickup and last minute car rental process easy!

Dayo
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Mireille
Mitsubishi Mirage G4 2023

I love the rental cars from Mohammed. He and his staff is friendly and helpful. The cars are small and good at gas. I would suggest anyone to rent a car with Mohammed.

Mireille
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Eliasmanuel
Subaru Impreza 2014

I had an excellent experience renting from this host and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and smooth car rental experience. The vehicle was extremely clean, well-maintained, and exactly as described in the listing. Communication was outstanding from start to finish. The host was friendly, professional, responsive, and made both pickup and drop-off incredibly easy and convenient. The car drove perfectly and made my trip stress-free and enjoyable. It’s clear the host takes great care of both their vehicles and their customers. I truly appreciated the attention to detail and overall professionalism throughout the rental process. I would absolutely rent from this host again in the future and highly recommend them to others looking for a top-quality rental experience.

Eliasmanuel
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Joseph
Audi S3 2015

The host was excellent throughout the whole process. Communication was very good, he was friendly and easy to deal with, and he made the whole car rental process simple and stress-free. Everything was straightforward from start to finish, and I would definitely rent from him again.

Joseph
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Ella
Mitsubishi Mirage 2023

Easy pickup and drop off, saved us when the car rental companies ran out of cars at the airport.

Ella
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Jennifer
Ford Fiesta 2017

Solid rental experience. Car was as described. Had no issues and the host was communicative when I needed to change the reservation by a few days or hours. Super convenient location near the airport. Best price for the amount of time I needed it which was about 2 weeks. Will definitely rent again when I'm in town.

Jennifer
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Jennifer M.
Subaru Outback 2013

Andre was great, the car was somewhat still dirty, dust, dirt, what appeared to be cigarette ashes, animal hair, sticky spills around the cup holders in the center console and the door panels. Crumbs and dust/dirt left in the door handles and cubby's. In the center console cup holders and cubbys. On the top of the dashboard, around the steering column and gauges. Sticky dusty windows and stereo buttons. Rear view mirror had sticky smudges on it. All the windows inside were dusty and dirty with smudges and idk what really.. the car had a bad smell of animals like dogs, and faint cigarette smell.. however as I got further into my trip I got used to it and wasn't bothered by it anymore. A lot of these issues honestly didn't bother me very much. I was more worried of being blamed for them when I returned the car. Unfortunately I was put behind schedule due to a passenger side headlight and passenger side tail light being burned out. However upon informing andre, he was very quick with a solution to take the car to valvoline where they were able to repair the lights before I left for my trip. If I wasn't already running late It wouldn't of bothered me. Andre was also very quick to reimburse me the whole price of the repairs immediately upon me sending him the receipt of the work.. I very much appreciated that! I also appreciate that instead of canceling my trip Andre worked out a way to have the lights fixed with no trouble of my own. He was always quick to respond to all of my very long messages full of questions. This is my first time using turo and I did not know the ins and outs of the rental process. He was able to guide me threw every step all while being polite and keeping his patience with me! Hah. I ended up running behind schedule on my way back as well and was surprised how simple and easy it was to change the return time from noon to after 9 p.m. all without adding any fees to my bill! That was very helpful of andre to allow me to do. I also ended up being a little passed my return time due to vacuuming the car and dusting everything to my best ability. So that andre wouldn't have to deal with someone else's mess and the next person who rents the vehicle will not have to worry about it either. I had no issues with doing that for him after he was so helpful with me! The vehicle was a little different then what im used to. But in no time I settled in with the car and had a very enjoyable trip! I would forsure rent another vehicle from andre in the future due to how well he accommodated me on this trip. Even tho the car had the mess, that was not andre, But left over from previous renters. He even made sure to have a snow brush and ice scraper in the car for me. But unfortunately the previous renters also took that with them. Im sure there will be a new one for the next person who rents the car because thats how much andre cares about his customers !! 5 stars for andre !!! Whoever returned his vehicle like that should be ashamed and think about how it would feel if someone treated your things the same way! Once again THANK YOU andre! I will reach out to you next time I need to rent a car.. I appreciate all your help thru the process! I appreciate your professionalism and quick responses to all my questions and thank you for making sure the vehicle was 100% good to go for me before I left and wouldn't of been able to fix it. 5 of 5 stars for andre !!

Jennifer M.
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Azeema
Toyota Yaris 2012

My credit card wasn’t working for some odd reason and rental companies wouldn’t let me rent a car so I booked this Turo last minute and it was a reasonable price for five days. I will do it again when I come back to Vancouver in August.

Azeema
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Chevrolet Cruze Limited 2016

Excellent 1st experience using Turo. The host was very responsive and timely. The vehicle was in great condition and rode very well. The price was a good deal and would definitely use this again as opposed to a major car rental facility. It was a simple process overall and very straightforward.

Jaretta
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Nissan Versa 2020

Highly recommend! First of all Rigid was very helpful from the beginning. I wasn’t exactly sure what days I would be arriving at GSO so I had to keep rescheduling the rental, but Rigid was very understanding and willing to work with me! Very well communicated from making the reservation to returning the car. Very easy pickup, the car was dropped off right outside the arrival level, so no long walk to the parking lot or rental car center etc. Clean car with good mpg! Will definitely rent again next time I coming through GSO airport!

Haojun
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Discover Calera's attractions and hidden gems

Calera boasts a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. From outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs, there's something for everyone. Having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore these diverse offerings, from the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum to the scenic Ozan Vineyard. Don't miss the opportunity to visit nearby Oak Mountain State Park or take a scenic drive through the rolling hills of central Alabama.


Step back in time at Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and train lovers alike. This fascinating museum showcases an impressive collection of restored locomotives and railcars, offering a glimpse into Alabama's rich railroad heritage. With a rental car, you can easily reach the museum and explore its outdoor exhibits at your leisure. The museum provides ample parking for visitors, making it convenient to spend a few hours immersed in railroad history.


Savor local flavors at Ozan Vineyard and Cellars

Nestled in the rolling hills just outside Calera, Ozan Vineyard and Cellars offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts. With your rental car, you can easily reach this picturesque winery and enjoy a leisurely afternoon of wine tasting and scenic views. The winery features a spacious parking area, allowing you to relax and fully appreciate the experience without worrying about transportation. Don't forget to pick up a bottle or two of their award-winning wines to take back home.


Explore the natural beauty of Oak Mountain State Park

A short drive from Calera, Oak Mountain State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With your rental car, you can easily access this expansive park and its diverse range of activities. From hiking and mountain biking to fishing and kayaking, there's no shortage of adventures to be had. The park offers numerous parking areas near popular trailheads and recreational facilities, making it convenient to explore different sections of this natural wonderland throughout your visit.


Reaching Calera for your Alabama adventure


- By plane: Fly into Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, then rent a car to drive to Calera.
- By train: Take Amtrak to Birmingham station, then rent a car for the journey to Calera.
- By car: Drive to Calera via Interstate 65 or US Highway 31, depending on your starting point.


Essential tips for renting a car in Calera

When booking a rental car in Calera, consider reserving early on Turo to secure the best options. Choose a vehicle that suits your planned activities, whether it's a compact car for city exploration or an SUV for outdoor adventures. Look for extras like GPS navigation or all-wheel drive for added convenience and safety on rural roads. Remember to check your rental car's fuel policy and return it with a full tank to avoid additional charges. Familiarize yourself with local parking regulations to ensure a hassle-free experience during your stay in Calera.

Frequently asked questions in Calera, AL

What are some popular pickup locations for rental cars in Calera, Alabama?

Calera, Alabama offers several convenient pickup locations for rental cars. Many guests find it easy to book a rental car through Turo, where local hosts often provide flexible pickup options. Popular areas for car rentals in Calera include the downtown area, near major hotels, and close to Highway 31. Some hosts on Turo may offer delivery to your location, making it even more convenient to start your trip. When searching for a rental car in Calera, consider looking for listings that offer pickup near the Calera Municipal Airport or in residential areas where many hosts are based. Remember to communicate with your host on Turo to arrange the most suitable pickup location for your needs, whether you're looking for a car, SUV, or other vehicle type for your Calera visit.

What are some pleasant driving routes near Calera for exploring Alabama's scenic beauty?

Calera offers several picturesque driving routes for those looking to explore Alabama's natural beauty. The Talladega Scenic Drive, winding through the Talladega National Forest, provides breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush forests. For a more leisurely journey, consider the Cahaba River Scenic Byway, which follows the Cahaba River and showcases the area's diverse flora. These routes are perfect for a day trip in your rental car, allowing you to experience the charm of rural Alabama at your own pace. Remember to pack a picnic and stop at the various overlooks to fully appreciate the scenery.

How can drivers navigate peak hour traffic in Birmingham, the nearest major city to Calera?

Navigating Birmingham's peak hour traffic from Calera requires some strategic planning. Consider using alternative routes like Highway 31 or County Road 26 to avoid the busiest sections of I-65. If possible, adjust your travel times to avoid the heaviest congestion, typically between 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays. Utilize traffic apps to stay informed about current conditions and potential delays. When driving your rental car in Birmingham, remain patient and alert, allowing extra time for your journey. Familiarize yourself with the city's layout beforehand to confidently navigate through less congested areas if needed.

Where can guests find convenient parking facilities when visiting downtown Calera?

Downtown Calera offers several convenient parking options for visitors exploring the area in their rental cars. The Main Street area provides ample on-street parking, perfect for quick stops at local shops and restaurants. For longer visits, consider using the public parking lot behind City Hall, which offers free spaces for visitors. If you're attending an event at the Calera Courthouse, there's a dedicated parking area nearby. Remember to check for any time restrictions or permit requirements, especially during special events or peak seasons. Always lock your rental car and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight when parking in any urban area.

What types of rental cars are recommended for exploring Calera and its surrounding areas?

For exploring Calera and its surroundings, a versatile SUV or a comfortable sedan are excellent choices. An SUV provides ample space for luggage and passengers, making it ideal for family trips or group outings to nearby attractions. It also offers better visibility and handling on rural roads. A sedan, on the other hand, is perfect for couples or solo travelers, providing good fuel efficiency for longer drives to Birmingham or other nearby cities. If you plan on venturing into more rugged terrain, consider renting a vehicle with all-wheel drive capabilities. Ultimately, the best rental car choice depends on your specific itinerary and personal preferences.

Are there any tolls to be aware of when driving from Calera to nearby cities in Alabama?

When driving your rental car from Calera to nearby cities in Alabama, you'll be pleased to know that there are currently no toll roads to navigate. Alabama's highway system is primarily composed of free-to-use interstates and state routes. This means you can explore the region without worrying about unexpected toll charges or the need for electronic toll passes. However, it's always wise to check for any recent changes or temporary toll implementations before your trip. Focus on enjoying the journey and the diverse landscapes Alabama has to offer, from the rolling hills around Calera to the bustling urban centers of nearby cities.

How should guests prepare for long-distance drives from Calera to other parts of Alabama?

Preparing for long-distance drives from Calera to other parts of Alabama in your rental car involves several key steps. First, plan your route in advance, considering potential stops for rest and refueling. Check the weather forecast and road conditions before departing. Ensure your rental car is in good condition, with proper tire pressure and fluid levels. Pack essentials like water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a phone charger. Familiarize yourself with Alabama's driving laws and speed limits. Take regular breaks to stay alert, especially on longer journeys. Lastly, consider downloading offline maps or bringing a physical map as a backup in areas with limited cell service.

What are the best practices for driving safely on rural backroads around Calera?

When driving on rural backroads around Calera in your rental car, safety should be your top priority. Always adhere to posted speed limits and reduce speed on curves or in areas with limited visibility. Be prepared for unexpected encounters with wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk. Keep a safe following distance from other vehicles and be cautious of farm equipment that may be sharing the road. Ensure your headlights are on during low-light conditions or inclement weather. Stay alert for changes in road surfaces, such as gravel or unpaved sections. Lastly, keep your fuel tank at least half full, as gas stations can be sparse in rural areas.

Where can guests find reliable gas stations in and around Calera for refueling their rental cars?

Calera and its surrounding areas offer several reliable options for refueling your rental car. Along Highway 31, which runs through Calera, you'll find a variety of well-known gas station chains that provide quality fuel and convenience stores. These stations are typically open late or 24/7, ensuring you can refuel at any time. For those venturing out of town, there are additional gas stations along Interstate 65, both north and south of Calera. When planning longer trips, it's advisable to refuel before your tank gets too low, especially in more rural areas where gas stations might be less frequent. Always keep an eye on your fuel gauge to avoid any unnecessary stress during your travels.

Is it possible to pick up a car in Calera and return it in another city?

Some hosts offer one-way trips as an Extra. When you search on Turo, you can filter for one-way trips to see what’s available in your area.

What can I do to prevent unexpected fees when renting a car in Calera?

To prevent unexpected fees, be sure to return the car on time as per Turo policy. All applicable fees are clearly displayed in the Turo app.

Are weekend car rentals in Calera typically pricier than weekday rentals?

Rates can vary between weekdays and weekends. Look out for savings on longer bookings and try adjusting your trip dates to find the best options for your schedule.

  1. * Est. daily price. Search for up to date price information.