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 Santa Maria 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 Santa Maria 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.

•  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 Santa Maria 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.

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Santa Maria CA Area Attractions

• Allan Hancock College
• Marian Medical Center
• Central Coast Exploration Station (15.67 miles)
• Seaventure Resort (17.20 miles)
• Seaside Gallery (17.28 miles)
• Martin's Art Mill Gallery (17.39 miles)
• Landon Galleries (20.28 miles)
• Artesia School Museum (21.56 miles)
• Lompoc Valley Historical (21.66 miles)
• Lompoc Museum (21.91 miles)
• Lompoc Hospital District (21.99 miles)
• Lompoc Veterans Memorial (22.23 miles)
• Sycamore Mineral Springs (23.19 miles)
• Conservation Corps Museum (25.32 miles)
• Bubble Gum Alley (25.70 miles)
• San Luis Obispo Childrens Museum (25.96 miles)
• San Luis Opispo Art Center (25.97 miles)
• California Mens Colony Hospital (29.34 miles)

Santa Maria rental guide