Smarter Car Renting

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

•  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 Clearwater before arrival or verify in the rental policy and rules to see which forms of payment they accept.

•  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 Clearwater 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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Clearwater FL Area Attractions

• Bright House Network Field
• Clearwater Christian College
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• Morton Plant Hospital
• Dunedin Stadium (2.76 miles)
• Largo Medical Center (3.56 miles)
• Sun Coast Hospital (4.90 miles)
• Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary (9.01 miles)
• Tampa Bay Downs (10.87 miles)
• Northside Hospital & Heart Institute (11.41 miles)
• Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital (11.61 miles)
• Hubbard's Sea Adventures (12.88 miles)
• Palms of Pasadena Hospital (15.16 miles)
• Big Cat Rescue (15.49 miles)
• Great Explorations (15.59 miles)
• In the Breeze Ranch (15.78 miles)
• St Anthony's Hospital (15.79 miles)
• Tropicana Field - Tampa Bay Rays (16.03 miles)

Clearwater rental guide