Smarter Car Renting

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

•  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.

•  Damaged: Always carefully eyeball your vehicle before leaving the rental agency, whether you're in Grand Rapids 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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Grand Rapids MI Area Attractions

• Breton Village Shopping Center
• Cascade Meeting and Banquet Center
• Cornerstone University
• Davenport University
• De Vos Children's Hospital
• Frederik Meijer Gardens
• Gerald Ford Museum
• Grand Rapids Art Museum
• Grand Rapids Museum
• Metropolitan Hospital
• Reformed Bible College
• Saint Mary's Mercy Medical Center
• Urban Institute-Contemporary
• Van Andel Arena
• Van Andel Museum Center
• Voigt House Museum
• Grace Bible College (3.39 miles)
• Fifth Third Ballpark (5.81 miles)

Grand Rapids rental guide