Smarter Car Renting

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

•  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.

•  Special Requests: Special requests can be noted at the time you make your Bellevue 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 Bellevue 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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Bellevue WA Area Attractions

• City University
• Meydenbauer Center
• Overlake Hospital Medical Center
• Luther Burbank Park (2.03 miles)
• Summit At Snoqualmie (2.32 miles)
• Qwest Field - Seattle Seahawks (3.09 miles)
• Northwest College (3.20 miles)
• Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park (3.77 miles)
• Viretta Park (4.30 miles)
• Mount Baker Park (4.74 miles)
• Seward Park (5.06 miles)
• Swedish Health Services (5.64 miles)
• Ballard-Fetherston Gallery (5.64 miles)
• Bank of America Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion - University of Washington (5.63 miles)
• University of Washington (5.76 miles)
• American West Steamboat Co. (6.10 miles)
• Seattle Central Library (6.10 miles)
• Washington State Convention & Trade Center (6.10 miles)

Bellevue rental guide