Smarter Car Renting

Here are car rental tips from the road trip-seasoned editors of RoadsideAmerica.com:

•  Under 25? Everyone over 25 assumes you are an awkward and unpredictable risk behind the wheel. Ridiculous, you say, without taking your eyes off the road. But be sure to check with Ridgecrest California car rental companies about their specific policies. Some agencies require the driver to be at least 25 while other rental companies may allow younger drivers to rent for an additional fee. Have more than one driver? Be sure to ask if additional charges apply for more than one person driving the rental car.

•  Credit Cards for Pick-Up: Many agencies require a credit card upon pick-up. Yes, Opie, we live in that kind of world. So make sure you are in good standing with your "plastic." Call the car rental agency in Ridgecrest before arrival or verify in the rental policy and rules to see which forms of payment they accept.

•  Leave Nothing Behind: At a road trip's end, we find we've accumulated souvenirs, kitschy mementoes, and piles of brochures from tourist attractions. These treasures prove you really traveled -- that it wasn't just some wacky delusion. When dropping off your rental car, carefully check every door pocket, drink holder and storage bin for these keepsakes. The rental car company sure doesn't have any use for them.

Click here to see Ridgecrest attractions

Ridgecrest CA Area Attractions

• Cerro Coso Community College
• Chiropractic Health Institute
• Maturango Museum
• Ridgecrest Regional Hospital
• Tehachapi Museum (55.15 miles)
• Tehachapi Hospital Rural Health (55.16 miles)
• Willow Springs International Motorsports Park (61.49 miles)
• Barstow Community Hospital (62.31 miles)
• Mojave River Valley Museum (62.46 miles)
• Barstow Mall (63.39 miles)
• Indian Point Ostrich Ranch (63.71 miles)
• Calico Ghost Town (64.99 miles)

Ridgecrest rental guide