Smarter Car Renting

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

•  Many States, One Car: If renting a car for a longer road trip, check with the car rental companies in San Rafael, California to see if they have policies about crossing state lines that affect the final rate you pay. May be no effect, but don't assume you can crisscross the globe with unlimited mileage impunity. There may be a GPS tracker in the car!

•  Car Types: When selecting a car type, remember it's not just about how cool you'll appear. The car selection page details show an average of how many people and how many pieces of luggage can comfortably fit in each car type. Pay attention to the specifics to be certain they meet your needs before booking.

•  Damaged: Always carefully eyeball your vehicle before leaving the rental agency, whether you're in San Rafael 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.

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San Rafael CA Area Attractions

• Dominican University of California
• Marine General Hospital
• Ghirardelli Square (7.95 miles)
• Angel Island State Park (8.41 miles)
• Crocker Galleria (9.23 miles)
• San Francisco Shopping Center (9.46 miles)
• Doctors Medical Center (10.29 miles)
• Wildcat Canyon Regional Park (12.15 miles)
• Fort Point National Historic Site (12.19 miles)
• Infineon Raceway (12.49 miles)
• Wave Organ (12.60 miles)
• Stonestown Galleria Shopping Center (12.81 miles)
• Deluxe Wine Tour (13.21 miles)
• Segway San Francisco Electric Tour (13.21 miles)
• Adventure USA (13.21 miles)
• Palace of Fine Arts (13.26 miles)
• Gulf of Farallones National Marine Sanctuary (13.34 miles)
• San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park (13.35 miles)

San Rafael rental guide