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 Madison 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.

•  Many States, One Car: If renting a car for a longer road trip, check with the car rental companies in Madison, Wisconsin to see if they have policies about crossing state lines that affect the final rate you pay. May be no effect, but don't assume you can crisscross the globe with unlimited mileage impunity. There may be a GPS tracker in the car!

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

• Alliant Energy Center
• Barrymore Theatre
• Camp Randall Stadium - University of Wisconsin
• Downtown Madison
• Elvehjem Museum of Art
• Fanny Garver Gallery
• Frank Lloyd Wright Wisconsin
• Geology Museum
• Glaeve Gallery
• Grace Chosy Gallery
• Henry Vilas Zoo
• Kohl Center - University of Wisconsin
• Madison Art Center
• Madison Childrens Museum
• Madison Civic Center
• Meriter Hospital
• Mount Senario College
• St Marys Hospital Medical Center

Madison rental guide