Smarter Car Renting

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

•  Special Requests: Special requests can be noted at the time you make your San Francisco rental car reservation. Nothing too crazy, though. If you are in need of an infant or toddler car seat, navigation system, ski rack or more, be sure to make note of it when booking online. Keep in mind that requests are not guaranteed and additional fees may apply.

•  Damaged: Always carefully eyeball your vehicle before leaving the rental agency, whether you're in San Francisco or East Podunkville. The last renter may have pulled in after a meteor shower! Prior scratches, dents, and other vehicle damage can cause extra headaches and costs if not noted before you leave the rental car lot. If you see any damage on the car's exterior and interior before you leave, make sure it's noted on the rental car papers, and point it out to an agency employee. This will resolve any questions that could arise when you return. And avoid meteor showers.

•  Book your reservation in advance. Rates can vary drastically, even for the same rental car in San Francisco California. By booking your car early, you can avoid last minute rate increases. It can also help assure your desired vehicle-type will be available at high demand car rental locations.

Click here to see San Francisco attractions

San Francisco CA Area Attractions

• Adventure USA
• Alcatraz Island
• Aquarium of the Bay
• AT&T Park - San Francisco Giants
• Barbary Coast Trail
• Billy Graham Civic Auditorium
• Cable Car Museum
• California College of the Arts
• California Institute of Integral Studies
• California Pacific Medical Center
• Camera Obscura and Holographic Gallery
• Car-crashed Auto Body
• Chinese Hospital
• Chinese New Year Festival & Parade
• Coit Tower
• Cow Palace
• Crocker Galleria
• De Young Museum

San Francisco rental guide