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 Gainesville 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.

•  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.

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Gainesville FL Area Attractions

• Alachua County Historic Trust
• Ben Hill Griffin Stadium - University of Florida
• Florida Museum-Natural History
• Florida Surgical Center
• Fred Bear Museum
• Malcom Randall VA Medical Center
• Morningside Living History Farm
• North Florida Regional Medical Center
• Santa Fe Community College
• Shands at AGH
• Stephen C. O'Connell Center - University of Florida
• University of Florida
• Wild Waters (34.37 miles)
• Silver Springs Natural Theme (34.40 miles)
• Ocala Regional Medical Center (35.02 miles)
• Munroe Regional Medical Center (35.06 miles)
• St Leo University (35.16 miles)
• Marion County Museum-History (35.26 miles)

Gainesville rental guide