Knowing the different types of car categories offered by rental companies is a must. Here is what you can expect when booking a standard rental car.
a Ford Mondeo is classified as a standard car.
We have divided this quick guide into the following sections to make it as easy to follow as possible. Click one of the links below to quickly jump to each part of the blog post.
A standard car is larger than an intermediateand smaller than a full-size. Frankly speaking, the name is rather self-explanatory. Standard rental cars are just that- standard. A prime example would be a Volkswagen Jetta, which can is a popular pick among rental companies worldwide.
All standard rental cars will share the following features:
space for up to 5 occupants (including the driver)
four doors
more cargo space than an intermediate car
good fuel economy
roughly the same size as a Volkswagen Jetta
Note that some rental companies offer slightly larger cars, such as MPVs and some crossovers, that are classified as standard. Continue reading to find out more about different examples of standard rental cars.
Standard Car Models
Keep in mind that you are not guaranteed a particular make and model when booking a rental car. You’re actually booking a rental car type instead. That’s why you’ll see the words Or Similarnext to your rental car.
With that in mind, these are some cars you may receive when booking a standard car:
Volkswagen Jetta
Kia Sportage
Vauxhall Insignia
Buick Verano
Citroen C4 Grand Picasso
Ford Mondeo
Volkswagen Passat
Ford C-Max
Renault Laguna
Vauxhall Corsa
When You Should Rent a Standard Car
Standard cars are ideal when an intermediate rental car just doesn’t cut it in terms of space, for example on longer trips. After all, a standard car has enough room in the trunk for at least one more piece of luggage compared with an intermediate car. Rear-seat passengers can expect more legroom, too.
On the flip side, standard cars are harder to park in tight spots. Fuel economy may be worse than your average intermediate or compact car, as well.
If you’re planning to drive a few hundred kilometers with two to three passengers and their luggage, a standard car may just be perfect. If you crave more space, consider renting a full-size instead.
Know More About Your Rental Car Type
As mentioned above, you always book a rental car type as opposed to a specific make and model. Although you are not guaranteed a particular vehicle, you can work out many of its features and specifications.
Rental companies around the world use the four-character ACRISS code to classify their fleets. The code includes information on the car type, category, drivetrain type, transmission, and even whether or not it has air conditioning.
Don’t forget to book your next rental car through Rentalmoose. Our platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.
We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.
The car rental world is made up of nearly 20 different categories. Keeping up with them all can be difficult, especially if you haven’t rented a car in a while. Here’s a quick guide to help you figure out what exactly a compact car is according to rental companies.
Rental companies are constantly shifting their fleets, hence guaranteeing renters a particular make and model would be virtually impossible. That’s why rental companies actually rent car types, as opposed to particular models.
To keep things simple and clear, rental companies throughout the globe use the same unified car classification system. The ACRISS code consists of four characters that describe the type of car offered by the company.
The first letter in the ACRISS code describes one of the 18 different car categories. Compact is one of them.
We’ve divided this blog post into the following sections to keep it as short as possible:
Compact cars are medium-sized. They are smaller than intermediate cars and bigger than mini cars.
Remember that a rental company cannot guarantee you a particular make and model. For this very reason, the exact dimensions and specifications of compact cars can slightly vary. Some rental companies also classify small SUVs, such as the Nissan Juke, as compacts.
You can expect every single compact rental car to have the following:
space for up to 5 occupants
4 doors
excellent fuel economy
similar in size to a Nissan Versa
In addition, some rental companies may also offer economy cars as well as compacts. Note that both of these types are very similar to each other, though a compact will typically be a little larger.
Examples of Compact Rental Cars
Compact rental cars are, despite the name, pretty spacious. As mentioned above, a Nissan Versa is considered a compact car. Some more examples of compact rental cars include:
Nissan Versa
Volkswagen Golf
Vauxhall Astra
Ford Fusion
Volkswagen Beetle
Nissan Juke
Ford Focus
Hyundai i30
Kia Soul
Peugeot 306
Opel Meriva
When Is It Best To Rent a Compact Car
As compact rental cars are smaller than intermediate and full-size sedans, they are ideal for driving around the city with friends or family. Compact cars can easily fit into tight parking spaces, and their small engines are renowned for exceptional fuel efficiency.
For example, a 2021 Volkswagen Golf can drive up to 39 miles on a single gallon of fuel. That equates to only around 6 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Rent a compact car and you’ll never have to worry about gas prices again!
If you’re planning a longer trip with more than two passengers and their luggage, you may be comfortable in an intermediate car, though. A couple going on a romantic weekend to Lake Tahoe from LA will be perfectly happy with a fuel-efficient compact.
Know More About Your Rental Car Type
We already mentioned that rental companies use a unified four-character ACRISS code to describe their rental cars. Did you know that you can figure out the car type, category, drivetrain, fuel type, transmission, and even if it has A/C, all by looking at its ACRISS code?
Remember that you are never guaranteed a particular make and model when booking a rental car. Instead, you’re actually booking a car type defined by its ACRISS code. That’s exactly why you’ll see the words or similarnext to the make and model when browsing through rental cars.
Don’t forget to book your next rental car through Rentalmoose. Our platform offers thousands of rental cars from trusted suppliers all across the world. Browse from over 15 000 different locations and find your ideal car today.
We plant a tree for every rental car booked with us, as a way of contributing towards a better tomorrow. Find out more about us here.
California is one of the best tourist destinations in all of the United States. A private car is unarguably the best way of getting around, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple cities.
Even if you’re planning to stick to one city, like Los Angeles, you’ll be better off with a rental car. This particular city extends for nearly 45 miles (70km) from north to south!
Driving in California for the first time can seem a little scary, at least at first. We’ve prepared a guide to help you navigate through California’s traffic laws and regulations. That way, you can make the most out of your California holiday.
To keep this guide as convenient as possible, it has been broken down into the following sections. You can click one of the links below to quickly jump to each section.
Planning is key to a fun and stress-free holiday. Ensure you’re all set before leaving for California using the information below.
Rental Cars in California
You can find your rental car via Rentalmoose. Rentalmoose features only verified suppliers across over 15 000 locations worldwide. Browse through rental cars from Hertz, Europcar, National, Enterprise, Alamo, and more. We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.
Who Can Drive a Car in California?
Teens as young as 14 can be permitted to drive a car in California in special cases. Drivers between 16 and 18 can drive with a provisional license, and anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a regular driving license. However, you need to be older in order to rent a car in the same state.
In fact, most California rental companies will permit drivers who are at least 21 years old to rent a car, as long as they’ve had their driving license for at least a year. Note that young drivers may not have access to the entire fleet though. Luxury cars or powerful drop-tops are usually reserved for drivers with more experience.
Big Sur, Pacific Coast Highway
Renters aged between 21 and 25 should prepare to pay an additional young driver fee. This daily fee will be added on top of your rental bill for anyone under 25, as well as seniors (usually over 65 years old).
Did you know that renters can face up to 20 additional fees when renting a car? You can learn how to avoid them in thisblog post.
International Driving Permits- Are They Required in California?
An International Driving Permit is not required by tourists driving in California. You can simply use your foreign driving license. Note that some rental companies may ask for an IDP, even when it is not legally required by the state or country you’re in. It’s always best to double-check directly with the supplier before setting off.
You can check out this blog post for more information on renting a car in California. You’ll find out all about the standard insurance, how to avoid young driver fees, and more practical information.
California Traffic Laws and Regulations
Seatbelts and Other Mandatory Safety Measures
Seatbelts are an absolute must for all occupants in a car.
In addition, motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet at all times. This applies to their passengers, too.
Speed Limits
Watch your speed at all times, as the limits are strictly enforced throughout the state.
These are the speed limits in California unless there are signs that state otherwise:
15-25mph (25-40kmh)- school zones, railroad crossings with poor visibility- under 400ft in both directions
25mph (40kmh)- urban areas, such as business and residential districts
55mph (90kmh)- two-lane undivided highways
65-70mph (105-110kmh)- multi-lane highways, such as freeways or interstates
55mph (90kmh)- maximum speed for vehicles towing trailers
As mentioned above, speed limits are strictly enforced in the state of California, much like in the majority of the US. The police can even use aircraft to enforce speed limits. If you’re caught speeding, you can expect to pay up to $900 for serious offenses. Criminal charges are possible for reckless drivers, too.
Overtaking and Lane Changes
A general rule of thumb is to stick on the right lane on highways and use the ones on the left for overtaking.
Overtaking on the right side is allowed, as long as there are at least two clearly-marked lanes going in the same direction.
Lane Splitting
Lane-splitting is legally permitted for motorcycles in California. Be sure to look out for bikes when driving!
Carpool (HOV) Lanes
Carpool lanes are a clever way to reduce the number of vehicles on busy roads. You can spot them on some of the busiest freeways in the states, especially in big cities such as Los Angeles or San Francisco. They are marked by a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on the surface.
You can use carpool lanes, as long as you have at least two (or three in some places) occupants in the vehicle, including the driver. Note that vehicles towing trailers are forbidden to use carpool lanes, no matter how many people are in the vehicle.
Turning Right at A Red Light
The ability to turn right at a red light continues to amaze many European tourists in many US states.
In California, it is legal to turn right at a red light, unless there are signs that prohibit it. Note that you must first come to a complete stop at the red light before turning right.
Pedestrians Have The Right of Way
Pedestrians have the right of way at any intersection. Crosswalks do not need to have lines painted on the road. What’s more, pedestrians are permitted to use unmarked intersections, unless there are signs that state otherwise.
Use of Mobile Phones, Texting and Driving
It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving in California. This is a distraction that can have deadly consequences for you, as well as other road users. Keep your hands off your phone when driving.
Fully hands-free devices are the only exception.
Drinking and Driving
Much like the rest of the United States, California takes drinking and driving very seriously. Although the legal limit is 0.8%, you can still be charged for drunk driving if you’re impaired, even if the alcohol level is below the legal limit.
Drivers caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be arrested on the spot. Never drink and drive.
Smoking in The Car
If you’re driving with children, it is illegal to smoke tobacco products in the vehicle. Not only is it against the law, but also incredibly bad for your health.
Opened Containers
Driving under the influence is a very serious crime in California. To help reduce the number of drunk drivers out on the roads, the officials have made it illegal to have any open alcohol containers within the passenger compartment of a vehicle- including the glovebox. If you have any open alcohol bottle, it has to be transported in the trunk.
DON’T FORGET TO USE RENTALMOOSE TO COMPARE THE BEST DEALS FROM OUR TRUSTED SUPPLIERS.
Though most vehicles sold today are automatics, manual rental cars are not going anywhere! Check out this guide to learn all you need to know about stick-shift automobiles in the world of car rental.
Picking the right transmission car to suit your needs is absolutely crucial. This is particularly important if you plan to rent a car for a long period of time or take it for a cross-country road trip.
For this very reason, Rentalmoose has created a comprehensive guide on manual rental cars. We’ll cover everything from reasons to book a manual car, finding a stick-shift vehicle, all the way to driving one.
To keep things simple, this handy guide is divided into 5 different sections. You can click one of the links below to quickly jump to each part of the blog post.
Torn between an automatic and a good ol’ stick shift? Check out some of the reasons why some drivers prefer manual transmissions.
Full Control Over Gears And Shifting
This one is quite obvious. The reason why many drivers love manual transmissions is that they are in full control of the gearbox. As the driver, you decide when to shift. This may not matter to everyone, though some people simply find it more enjoyable.
Some cars offer a semi-automatic transmission where the driver can still shift up and down without a clutch, though that feature is mostly reserved for sports cars.
Long Trips and Driving In The City
While a manual transmission is perfectly fine when driving on a long highway, it could get annoying very quick in the city. Imagine being stuck in rush-hour traffic, constantly having to keep your left foot on and off the clutch.
If you’re planning to stick to city driving, you may want to re-think renting a manual car. For long journeys, however, manual rental cars can be the perfect pick.
More Driving Pleasure
According to some car fans, driving a car with a manual transmission is simply more fun than an automatic. While this is definitely a matter of personal taste, it’s pretty clear that a manual transmission is simply more engaging for the driver.
It’s Cheaper Than An Automatic
Renting a manual car will always be cheaper than an automatic.
If a rental company happens to have the exact same vehicle, the only difference being the transmission type, you can be sure that the manual will have a lower day rate.
Renters who want to drive stick can save a few bucks along the way, too.
Note that this does rule does not apply in the United States, as there aren’t any manual rental cars offered there. Keep reading for more details.
Where Can You Find A Manual Rental Car?
Manual rental cars are very common throughout European countries. In most cases, the cheapest vehicles offered by a rental company come equipped with a stick shift.
The majority of trusted suppliers, such as Hertz, Europcar, Budget, or Enterprise, all offer manual rental cars in Europe as well as other countries. You can use Rentalmoose to filter manual rental cars at your selected location.
Cars with a stick shift have become hard to come by in the US. That brings up another question.
How To Check If Your Rental Car Will Be A Manual- ACRISS Code
When browsing through rental cars, you should always keep in mind that you’re not actually booking a specific model. Instead, you’re booking a car category that meets the criteria you’ve picked. That’s why you’ll see the words “or similar” next to the model name.
With that in mind, there is an easy way to check what transmission type your rental car will have. The third character in the vehicle’s ACRISS code describes its transmission.
The letters A, B, D indicate that the vehicle is an auto. Take a look at the example below.
CCMN- a compact 2/4 door manual without air conditioning.
CCAN- a compact 2/4 door automatic without air conditioning.
Can You Rent A Manual Car In The United States?
Finding a manual rental car in the US is virtually impossible. Though there may be a few local rental companies that still offer stick shifts, a manual rental car is a rare sight.
Alamo and Budget still have some manual vehicles at select locations, though they’re very difficult to find.
The number of manual automobiles in the US is dropping rapidly. According to Carmax, less than 2.5% of cars sold in the US come equipped with a stick shift. That’s quite a drop from 25% a little over two decades ago.
As a result, just 1 in 5 American drivers know how to drive manual. While that may not necessarily be a bad thing, it dramatically reduces the amount of stick shift rental cars in the country. Most drivers simply prefer automatics, either due to comfort, a lack of skill, or both.
The lack of manual transmissions in the US is good news for drivers who prefer automatics, though. Renters don’t have to pay a premium rate to receive an automatic car, as opposed to Europe where the cheapest rental cars are typically diesel-powered manuals.
How Do You Drive Stick Shift?
Driving a manual can be a little tricky after a long break. However, you should be able to get the hang of it after a few minutes. You can also check out our quick guide to driving a stick shift, just in case.
If you’ve never driven stick before, it may be a better idea to go with an automatic rental car.
Rent A Manual Car With Rentalmoose
Rentalmoose has made renting manual rental cars easier than ever before. Simply go to our website, find a location, select pick-up and drop-off dates, and hit enter.
Once the results pop up, you are able to set additional filters. This can be anything from the renter’s age, the deposit amount, and the transmission type.
Renting a car is a pretty straightforward process, as long as you have a credit card. While it is preferred, most rental companies will allow you to use a debit card when renting a car. This quick guide will answer one of the most confusing questions in the world of rental cars.
To keep things simple, we’ve divided this blog post into the 3 following parts. Click the links to quickly jump to each section.
The short answer is yes. However, it depends on a few factors:
the rental location
age of the renter
proof of a return travel itinerary
the name on the card
Continue reading to find out more.
Although it can seem a little bit complicated at first, it is possible to rent a car without a credit card. Rentalmoose has made renting a car as straightforward as possible. Virtually all of our suppliers allow renters to rent cars using a debit card. This can, however, change depending on the location.
Rentalmoose insider tip: Some of our suppliers offer a quick way to check location-specific policies. Check out Budget’s Find A Location as an example.
Note that the policies can vary depending on the rental station. Always double-check with the supplier before finalizing the transaction. Otherwise, you may run into issues during the pick-up process.
Another thing to keep in mind is the age of the renter. While most rental companies allow a driver under 25 to rent a vehicle (a young driver fee may be applied), the lack of a credit card is an issue. You need to be at least 25 years old to rent a car with a debit card.
If you’re picking up your rental car at an airport, you will need to provide proof of a return travel itinerary. This is required by virtually all rental companies at airport locations, especially if you plan to use a debit card.
Last but not least, ensure that the debit card is registered to you- the renter. No matter whether you choose to book with a debit or a credit card, it has got to be under the name of the renter.
Don’t forget that while some rental companies won’t accept a credit card during the pick-up process, payment for the rental car at drop-off may be covered via a debit card. It’s best to get in touch directly with the supplier if you’re unsure.
Which Rental Car Companies Allow You To Use A Debit Card?
Rentalmoose only offers rental cars from trusted and verified rental companies. As a result, most of our suppliers offer a car rental with a debit card.
You can always double-check directly with the rental company if you’re unsure whether your rental car can be booked with just a debit card.
Avis (Ace, Budget)
Most Avis locations accept debit cards, though the renter has got to be at least 25 years old.
Cards accepted by this supplier include Avis Charge Cards, American Express, AT&T Capital, China Union Pay, Diner’s Club, Discover, GE Capital, JCB, Mastercard, Sears, and Visa.
Aside from local policies, Avis also requires credit cards when renting premium vehicles, including the ones in the Avis Select Series.
Enterprise (Alamo, National Car Rental)
Enterprise typically accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Discover debit cards at most of their airport locations in the US and Canada.
Note that the renter needs to present a return flight ticket to be able to rent a car using a debit card at airport locations. Otherwise, only a credit card will be accepted.
Europcar
Europcar accepts debit cards issued by major operators at select locations. It’s best to refer to their terms and conditions before finalizing the booking.
For the most part, it should not be an issue to use a debit card when booking a rental car with Hertz. As always, local limitations may apply depending on the rental location. Hertz requires a credit card when booking a premium vehicle, too.
Charge and debit cards accepted by this supplier include American Express, MasterCard, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, Visa, China Union Pay, Hertz Charge Card.
Similar to Enterprise, Hertz requires to present a return flight ticket at airport locations to be able to rent a car with a debit card.
Rental car deposits and holds on account funds
No matter what supplier you choose to book your rental car with, you can expect a hold on account funds.
By doing this, the rental company can make sure that the renter is actually able to pay for the rental car. In most cases, the holds on your account funds will be similar to the final rental car bill.
This fee will be returned to you within a few business days after the drop-off. Ensure you have enough funds on your debit card to cover this hold, as well as to pay for the rental car itself.
Most rental companies will take a security deposit. You can learn more about that in this informative blog post.
Now that you’re all set, it’s time to book your next rental car! Click the banner below to start browsing rental cars.
Mexico is filled with fun attractions and plenty of things to do for all kinds of travelers. It’s no surprise that this country attracts nearly 100 million tourists every single year. Traveling by car is unarguably the best way to see the best of what this country has to offer. Check out our insightful guide to car rental insurance in Mexico before setting off!
To keep things simple, we have divided this blog post into the following sections. Click the links below to jump to each topic.
For the most part, renting a car in Mexico is exactly the same as in the United States. You will need the following items to rent a car in Mexico:
Major credit card under your name
Driver’s license issued at least a year before the start of the rental period
Valid passport
Note that there are common extra car rental fees that can be added to your rental bill. These include a premium location surcharge, mainly for airport pick-ups and drop-offs, a young driver fee, or a late drop-off fee.
Most rental companies will require a security deposit before handing over the keys. The deposit is usually taken from the credit card used when booking your rental car. While some local companies may allow you to cover the deposit via debit card, it is not common practice.
Rentalmoose insider tip: Booking using local currency may save you from overpaying for bad conversion rates.
Your US Insurance Is (Probably) Not Valid In Mexico
This is indeed quite a bummer. Many credit card plans come with rental car insurance (more info here). However, most providers don’t extend this coverage south of the United States.
Credit Card coverage will not be accepted in Mexico. Purchasing additional coverage in Mexico is the best way to go.
Note that this will also apply to travelers who drive their own vehicles into Mexico. Most US auto insurance plans are not valid in Mexico.
Mandatory Car Rental Insurance in Mexico
Just like the United States, Mexico has two types of car rental insurance- collision damage and liability. However, this is where the similarities between rental cars in the US and Mexico stop. Here’s why.
Personal Liability Insurance, also referred to as Third-Party Insurance, is mandatory when renting a car in Mexico. You cannot rent a car without this coverage.
Although this is the only obligatory type of insurance, it’s not always enough. In fact, it’s highly recommended to opt for additional coverage. You can also learn more about rental car insurance in other countries in this guide.
Personal Liability Insurance- Why It May Not Be Enough
As the name suggests, Personal Liability Insurance (a.k.a. Third Party Insurance) covers personal injury claims and material damage done only to the other driver.
That’s right, this basic coverage does not protect the renter or the rental car in any way. If you do happen to have a collision in your rental car without any extra coverage, you will need to pay for the damages out of your own pocket. The bill can quickly round up to tens of thousands of dollars.
Be sure to double-check the limit on your basic coverage before driving off. In most cases, basic liability insurance will only cover you up to 50 000 pesos, or $3800. Anything above that will need to be paid by the renter.
While we sincerely hope that you’ll never need rental car insurance, it’s always best to come prepared.
Additional Rental Car Insurance in Mexico Explained
Be sure to check out the section below to avoid overpaying for what may seem like a great deal, at least at first. Avoid any misunderstandings and ensure that you have the exact coverage you want.
If you choose to buy additional insurance outside of your rental company, double-check whether it’s accepted. Some local companies won’t accept insurance bought outside of their company.
These are the different types of car rental insurance in Mexico. We’ll go over the details below.
Basic Car Rental Liability Insurance in Mexico
Supplemental Liability Insurance (SAI)
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW/LDW)
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Basic Car Rental Liability Insurance in Mexico
You may be surprised to hear that basic liability insurance is included in your Mexico rental car. It’s a legal requirement for every rental company to include the basic liability in the day rate.
Every rental car in Mexico comes with this basic liability insurance. That said, you should consider adding extra coverage. Check out the options below.
Supplemental Liability Insurance (SAI)
As you already know, basic liability insurance is obligatory in Mexico. That has to be good news, right?
Well, not exactly. Many rental companies in Mexico will insist on purchasing SAI, or Supplemental Liability Insurance. This extended protection may come in handy, as it typically increases the coverage from the 50 000 pesos included in your basic insurance. However, this extended coverage is not mandatory.
Don’t forget that it’s always cheaper to purchase additional coverage in advance. If you decide to add extra insurance at the rental desk, expect to pay a higher fee.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW/LDW)
A Collision Damage Waiver, also referred to as the Loss Damage Waiver, is not theoretically insurance. Instead, it confirms that your rental company is willing to waive some (or all) of the cost of damage done to the rental car.
Some credit card plans may come with a CDW policy, at least in the US. Note that most credit card insurance plans won’t work in Mexico. Double-check whether your provider offers extended insurance in Mexico. If not, you may want to consider purchasing CDW.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
This is the only type of coverage that will protect you and other occupants in the rental car. For extra peace of mind, make sure you add PAI to your rental car quote. It will set you back under $10 per day.
Personal Accident Insurance will cover the cost of treatment, transport to the hospital, etc. Once again, we hope you’ll never actually have to use it.
What If You Decline Additional Car Insurance in Mexico
Here comes another bummer. When you decline additional coverage offered by your supplier and can’t provide proof of having external protection, the company may ask you for a larger security deposit.
This may seem like a good way to avoid paying for rental car insurance in Mexico at first. In reality, however, the security deposit can quickly become an enormous sum.
This security deposit can easily surpass $2 500. Make sure to have proof of separate insurance plans, and double-check with the company before picking up your rental car.
Damaged Rental Car In Mexico
Fighting rental car damage claims can be tricky, no matter which country you’re in. This should not discourage you from renting a car in Mexico. Nonetheless, every renter should be aware of the local procedures.
You may have heard about international tourists going to Mexican jail after a car collision. While this could happen, many of these horror stories are quite exaggerated.
Yes, you could get detained after a car accident in Mexico. The police do have the right to detain you until money matters are settled (this is where insurance comes in handy).
However, this only happens IF:
someone got injured during the car accident
police cannot determine who was at fault
Note that the local police can have your rental car towed and impounded, too. While the chance of this happening on your Mexico vacation is extremely low, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Bonus- Mexico Rental Car
Unsure where to book your rental car in Mexico? Be sure to check out Rentalmoose. We’re a global car rental broker that serves over 15 000 locations worldwide.
We only offer rental cars from trusted and verified suppliers.
Now that you’re all set, it’s time to continue planning your Mexico adventure! Check out some of our Mexican travel guides:
No matter which destination you pick, be sure to book a rental car. The comfort of being able to adjust your itinerary on the go can only be achieved when traveling by car. A private vehicle is also a safe way to travel during the coronavirus pandemic.
We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!
There are plenty of wonderful attractions just a few hours away from Boston. While the largest city in Massachusetts is an exceptional destination in its own right, we all need a getaway from the hustle and bustle of a city sometimes. We’ve hand-picked 10 of the best day trips from Boston.
Take a look at the map below for driving directions to each attraction.
Click one of the links below to jump to each section of the article.
Without further ado, let’s jump into each one of the best day trips from Boston!
Cape Cod National Seashore
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Distance from Boston: 100 miles (160km), 2 hours one way
Cape Cod is a well-known destination among beachgoers. After all, this region sees tens of millions of tourists from across the world every year. Most choose to come here during the summer, that’s when the weather is ideal for a day of sunbathing.
Best Beaches on Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s pristine sandy beaches are among the best on the East Coast. There are 18 different beaches to choose from, either run by one of the local towns or the National Park Service. You have to visit these three, at the very least:
Craigville Beach
Monument Beach
Nauset Beach
If you’ve seen Jaws, parts of Cape Cod may seem weirdly familiar. That’s because this famous blockbuster was actually filmed all over Cape Cod. Be sure to book a private tour to Martha’s Vineyard to visit some of the filming locations.
Consider going on a boat tour to experience the local marine life up close. There are plenty of operators that offer boat tours to spot whales, seals, and even sharks. Check out Bay Spirit Tours for a variety of daily boat trips.
Wompatuck State Park
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Distance from Boston: 25 miles (40km), 40 minutes one way
Wompatuck State Park is easily one of the favorite day trips from Boston. This park is merely a 40-minute drive away from downtown, ideal for a dramatic change of scenery. Travelers can make the most out of over 5000 acres of forests, hike down one of the numerous trails, or stay overnight at the large campsite.
This state park is a top pick among local bikers. There are plenty of trails, ranging from the paved Whitney Spur Rail Trail through to thrilling off-roading trails, ideal for mountain biking. Click here to check out an interactive map of Wompy’s biking trails.
Note that there aren’t any bike rentals available at the Wompatuck State Park. You can, however, rent a bicycle from SouthShoreCycles around 15 minutes north of the park. Alternatively, you could also pick a rental in Boston before driving over to the park.
Distance from Boston: 45 miles (70km), 1 hour one way
A visit to Myles Standish State Forest makes for one of the best day trips from Boston. This quiet park is located just an hour away from the city. There are plenty of things to do here all year round.
Visitors to Myles Standish State Forest can hike deep into the forest, the hiking trails add up to 13 miles in total. There are also plenty of trails for bicycles, as well as a campground where you can spend the night.
Cool off at College Pond an adventurous day at the park. Go for a dip in the refreshing water, or sunbathe on the sandy beach. You could also rent a canoe, kayak, or a stand-up paddleboard from Nemasket Kayak.
You can drop your car off at the College Pond car park. It costs $8 for vehicles registered in MA and $30 for those registered in other states.
Halibut Point State Park
Alan Wolf
Distance from Boston: 45 miles (70km), 1 hour one way
Note that Good Harbor Beach, as well as the cute coastal town of Rockford, are both located virtually next to Halibut Point State Park. Therefore, you can easily combine visiting three of these destinations at once for a long day trip from Boston.
This state park offers breathtaking scenery, as well as a serene vibe that’s simply ideal for a quiet afternoon out of town. The waterfront rocks make for a perfect spot to have a picnic, so be sure to bring some snacks with you. There are also lots of scenic hiking trails all over the park.
Keep in mind that swimming is not permitted at Halibut Point State Park. If you wish to go for a refreshing dip, you should head to Myles Standish or Cape Cod instead.
Distance from Boston: 40 miles (65km), 45 minutes one way
Fancy a beach day? It doesn’t get much better than Good Harbor Beach. This beautiful sandy beach sits less than an hour away from the heart of Boston, making it ideal for a quick day trip from the city. Whether you want to spend the day swimming in crystal-clear waters, or soaking in the sun, Good Harbor Beach is the place for you.
Beachside parking is available at a daily fee. Note that cars with a resident beach sticker are exempt from paying the fee. You can also check the Gloucester Beaches Facebook page for live updates regarding beachside parking.
Rentalmoose insider tip: If Good Harbor Beach is too full, try to visit one of the other sandy beaches in the area. Stage Fort Park Beach and Wingaersheek Beach are always worth a shot.
Distance from Boston: 45 miles (70km), 50 minutes one way
Rockport is a cute coastal town located roughly halfway between Good Harbor Beach and Halibut Point State Park. It makes for a great stopover during your day trip from Boston to either one of these destinations. Here’s why.
A stroll through the main street of Rockport is a great starting point for your day trip. Admire the colorful houses and take in the quiet, peaceful vibe. You can unwind at one of the local eateries, too.
A visit to Front Beach is an absolute must, especially if you’re not planning to go to Good Harbor Beach afterward. This sandy beach is the go-to spot for both locals and tourists to unwind, hence it can get a bit busy during peak season and on sunny weekends.
Walk along the Rockport Harbor until you reach Bearskin Neck. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of both the bay and the harbor.
Rockport- A Dry Town Since 1856
Did you know that Rockport remained dry for over 160 years? Back in 1856, a resident of this tiny village led a procession of over 200 women, destroying all alcohol products along the way. Alcohol has not been available ever since. That is until restaurants were allowed to serve beer and wine in 2006. Then, in 2019, local officials allowed the only grocery store in the village to sell alcoholic beverages, too.
Distance from Boston: 120 miles (200km), 2 hours 10 minutes one way
Glendale Falls is an absolute must-visit, and its proximity from Boston makes this destination ideal for a quick day trip from the city. In fact, these falls are among the longest in all of Massachusetts.
Go up to the falls to grab a photo like the one above (mind your step!), hike along one of the remote trails, or simply enjoy the 2-hour drive from Boston. You can learn more about the local attractions on the Glendale Falls website.
What’s more, the road leading to the falls is equally stunning as the destination. Scenic driving roads are the highlight of any great road trip, and they can also be a fun attraction on one of your day trips from Boston. Be sure to drive down Route 112, one of the state’s Scenic Byways.
Mount Tom State Reservation Area
Doug Kerr
Distance from Boston: 100 miles (160km), 1 hour 40 minutes one way
A drive to Mount Tom State Reservation Area is one of the best day trips from Boston for any hiking aficionado. This spot is renowned for its vast forests, as well as seemingly endless hiking trails. Don’t take our word for it, just look at the trail map below.
Courtesy of Mt Tom State Reservation
Once you’re at the top of Mount Tom, you can admire panoramic views of the Pioneer Valley. It’s also a favorite spot for birdwatching, as hawks can often be spotted in this part of the park.
Let’s not forget that Mount Tom State Reservation is a year-round destination, too. During the winter, you can come here to enjoy cross-country skiing along the snow-covered hiking trails. No matter what time of the year you visit Mount Tom, there’s always something to do here.
Salem
Wikimedia Commons
Distance from Boston: 25 miles (40km), 40 minutes one way
If you’re in the mood for some local history, then a day trip from Boston to the town of Salem is an absolute must. This picturesque town sits less than 30 miles away from the city, making it the perfect destination for a quick afternoon trip out of the city.
This coastal town is famous for its historic significance, particularly the witch trials of the 1690s. You certainly have to visit the local Salem Witch Museum to find out more about these 1692 events. Admission costs $15 for adults, $13.5 for seniors over 65, and $12 for children under 14.
As Salem is known as the Witch Town, you should consider visiting one of the local psychic parlors while you’re here. Head down to Omen at 184 Essex Street, where you can find out about your future during a fortune-telling session. Omen specializes in anything from palmistry all the way to Tarot and Voodoo.
White Mountain National Forest
weesam2010
Distance from Boston: 160 miles (260km), 2 hours 30 minutes one way
At this point, you could argue that we’ve saved the best for last. While we won’t argue whether or not White Mountain National Forest is the greatest day trip from Boston, it is the furthest from the city. In fact, you’ll have to drive for roughly two and a half hours one way to reach this natural wonderland. Is it worth it? Continue reading to find out.
Scenic Drives in White Mountain National Forest
Kancamagus Scenic Byway
White Mountain Trail Byway
Southern Driving Loop
Scenic driving is one of the best activities in the White Mountains. Don’t miss the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, often considered to be one of the best roads in all of New Hampshire. Expect panoramic views, thrilling chicanes, and plenty of overlooks to safely pull over and take in the beauty. The loop stretches for 34 miles in total and connects with the White Mountain Trail Byway.
After you’re done with scenic driving, stretch your legs at one of the park’s numerous hiking trails. Pay a visit to Flume Gorge, the Elephant Head Trail, and the Basin-Cascades Trail.
You can also go on a tram ride to enjoy the best views, or go for a refreshing dip at Echo Lake Beach. The attractions here are nearly endless!
White Mountain National Forest is a great destination that can be enjoyed all year long. If you plan to visit this park in winter, put your skis on and enjoy the best runs at Cannon Mountain.
Rentalmoose insider tip: check out this blog post to properly prepare for a winter road tirp.
Bonus- The Best Way Of Getting Around Massachusetts
There you have it, those are the best day trips from Boston!
No matter which destination you pick, be sure to book a rental car. The comfort of being able to adjust your itinerary on the go can only be achieved when traveling by car. A private vehicle is also a safe way to travel during the coronavirus pandemic.
Unsure about renting a car or taking your own vehicle? This blog post may help.
We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!
Check out this list of 28 of the most breathtaking bridges across the world. Some of them are the pinnacle of modern engineering, while others date back hundreds of years. We’ve compiled a list of the most famous bridges in North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Autralia.
We’ve divided this post into different continents. You can quickly jump to each section by clicking one of the links below.
Brooklyn Bridge needs no introduction. Not only is it a major landmark in the Big Apple, but it also doubles as one of the most Instagrammable places in town.
This bridge has been a vital connection between Manhattan and Brooklyn ever since the completion of its construction back in 1883. Crossing the bridge, either on foot or on a bicycle, is an absolute must-do on any trip to NYC.
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
by johnlogins
Location: Tampa, Florida, USA
What makes Tampa’s Sunshine Skyway Bridge stand out from the crowd is its impressive size. In fact, this is the longest cable-stayed concrete bridge on the planet! Construction was completed in the late 1980s, and the bridge has been a local landmark ever since.
Its gigantic size makes the Sunshine Skyway Bridge hard to miss when in Tampa. It’s just one of many great spots to see in town, click here for more attractions in this Florida city.
Golden Gate
courtesy of Fshoq
Location: San Francisco, California, USA
Like the previously mentioned Brooklyn Bridge, Golden Gate needs no introduction. This spectacular structure has been a distinctive landmark of San Francisco ever since its completion in 1937. The entire bridge was painted red to improve its visibility in bad weather conditions, which are common in that part of California.
Bixby Creek Bridge
by Foundry Co
Location: Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best driving roads on the planet. Hence, it makes perfect sense for one of the most famous bridges to be a part of it! The entire PCH stretches for over 1000 kilometers/600 miles, making it the longest state route in California.
Even if you have never been to the sunny state of California, this bridge may seem familiar. It’s a popular shooting location for various blockbusters and TV shows.
Seven Mile Bridge
Meyyappan S
Location: The Keys, Florida, USA
The Seven Mile Bridge is yet another famous bridge that’s located in the Sunshine State. As the name suggests, this spectacular structure stretches for 7 miles atop the turquoise waters.
Moreover, this bridge is a part of the scenic Overseas Highway that connects the Florida Keys to the mainland. A drive here makes for an ideal day trip from Miami, too.
Confederation Bridge
by Jamie in Bytown
Location: Borden-Carleton, PE, Canada
This is yet another bridge that became famous due to its sheer scale. That’s because the Confederation Bridge is the world’s longest bridge built atop ice-covered water. While not as long as some of the other bridges on our list, it still is worth mentioning.
Oh, and it’s a part of the Trans-Canada Highway. Driving across this enormous road that spans nearly 5000 miles, or 7000 kilometers, is the perfect itinerary for a road trip across Canada.
Royal Gorge Bridge
by Dave Soldano
Location: Royal Gorge, Colorado, USA
Walking across this spectacular suspension bridge is not for the faint-hearted. It was completed back in 1929 and broke the world record as the highest bridge on the planet, 955 feet (291 meters) above the Arkansas River.
It wasn’t until 2001 when the Royal Gorge Bridge was stripped of its title by an even higher bridge in China. Despite not being the world’s highest bridge anymore, it’s still worth a visit during a Colorado road trip.
Hartland Covered Bridge
by Dennis Jarvis
Location: New Brunswick, Canada
At first sight, you may not believe that this Canadian bridge would hold any world record. Afterall, it doesn’t exactly look as glamorous as the Golden Gate, and it’s definitely not as high as the Royal Gorge Bridge. However, it is certainly unique.
The Hartland Covered Bridge is the world’s longest covered bridge at 1282 feet (391 meters).
The Rialto Bridge is the oldest bridge built over the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. It also doubles as one of the most popular attractions in town.
This stone arch bridge dates all the way back to the late 16th century, it’s been a crucial structure ever since. Be sure to continue reading, as the famous Rialto Bridge isn’t the only Italian bridge that’s made it on our list.
Stari Most
by pixelRaw
Location: Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
The original Stari Most was a bridge built by the Ottomans back in the 16th century. It became a landmark, as well as a showcase of classic Ottoman architecture.
Sadly, Stari Most was destroyed during the Bosnian war in the early 1990s. It was then rebuilt at the beginning of the 21st century. It’s been a major tourist attraction since 2004.
Ponte Vecchio
by Justin Brown
Location: Florence, Italy
The famous Ponte Vecchio is the second Italian bridge that has made it on our list. Its history dates back to the mid-1300s, and the structure can still be admired in modern-day Florence.
Ponte Vecchio was the first segmental arch bridge built in the West. What’s more, it’s also the oldest of all bridges in the city of Florence.
Great Belt Bridge
Stig Nygaard
Location: Tårup, Denmark
This spectacular bridge is a vital connection between the eastern and western parts of Denmark. Contrary to popular belief, this engineering marvel is more than just one bridge! Nonetheless, it’s commonly known as one of the most famous bridges of all time.
The structure stretches for 18 kilometers, or 11 miles, in total. It’s made up of the East Bridge (6.9km long), the East Tunnel (8km), and the West Bridge (6.6km). You can learn more about the history of the famous Great Belt Bridge on its official website.
Tower Bridge
Fuzzypiggy
Location: London, United Kingdom
The monumental Tower Bridge is a London landmark that’s famous all over the world. It should also be one of the places you visit on your London itinerary.
The Neo-Gothic architecture makes this the most distinctive bridge in the city, and perhaps even all of the United Kingdom. The busy Thames River is full of large ships and boats. You may just see the bridge’s middle section lift up if you’re lucky.
Don’t confuse this with London Bridge! Tower Bridge is a lot more sophisticated and famous, whereas London Bridge is pretty regular.
Magdeburg Water Bridge
by Olivier Cleynen
Location: Magdeburg, Germany
The bridge in Magdeburg is a real engineering marvel, and we can guarantee you’ve never seen anything else like it. The Magdeburg Water Bridge opened back in 2003 and has instantly become a point of interest in this part of Germany.
This impressive construction spans nearly a kilometer, making it the world’s longest navigable aqueduct. Tourists can walk along the wide pathways, located at each end of the bridge.
Charles Bridge
by Miroslav Petrasko
Location: Prague, Czech Republic
The historic Charles Bridge is perhaps the most famous landmark in all of Prague. This beautiful bridge has been around since the early 1400s. It was the only bridge connecting the city’s Old Town to the castle up until the 1840s.
Don’t forget that this bridge doubles as one of the biggest attractions in town. Hence, it’s recommended to visit it early in the morning if you wish to avoid crowds.
Viaduc de Millau
Bert Kaufmann
Location: Millau, France
The Viaduc de Millau is yet another piece of state-of-the-art modern engineering. It’s located in the South of France near the small town of Millau. This enormous bridge is a part of the A75 highway. It’s also one of the most famous bridges in Europe.
This award-winning structure first opened to the public back in 2004. It remains the tallest bridge (not to be confused with the highest bridge) on the planet. The distance between the top of the mast and the bottom of the structure measures a whopping 270 meters (890ft)!
Chapel Bridge
by suju-foto
Location: Lucerne, Switzerland
The Chapel Bridge, or the Kapellbrücke in German, may not be the biggest structure in the world. It is, however, one of the prettiest by far. It’s located in the heart of Lucerne, a beautiful Swiss town around 40 minutes south of Zurich.
The Chapel Bridge is the world’s oldest covered wooden bridge. The bridge was originally built in 1360, though it had nearly burned down in the 90s. Currently, visitors can walk across a reconstructed version of the historic structure.
The 15th July Martyrs Bridge, often simply referred to as the Bosphorus bridge, is unlike any other in the world. It’s located in the heart of Istanbul, the capital of Turkey.
This bridge was constructed above the Bosphorus Strait in 1973. It connects the European and Asian parts of Istanbul. That’s right, you’ll be on a different continent as soon as you cross this bridge!
Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge
courtesy of Max Pixel
Location: Kobe, Japan
The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge in Japan is yet another masterpiece of modern engineering. It broke world records virtually as soon as it first opened in the late 1990s. Today, commuters use it to get between the cities of Kobe and Iwaya.
This monumental structure still holds the world record for the longest central span of any suspension bridge on the planet. The highway is suspended around 70 meters, or 230 feet, above the Seto Inland Sea.
Hangzhou Bay Bridge
by HighestBridges
Location: Jiaxing, China
When it comes to the Hangzhou Bay Bridge, the sheer scale of this structure is its main highlight. It currently sits as the world’s fourth longest transoceanic bridge on the planet.
The Hangzhou Bay Bridge measures an impressive 35 kilometers, or 22 miles, in length.
Si-O-Se Pol
courtesy of Alluring World
Location: Isfahan, Iran
The eccentric Si-O-Se Pol Bridge is the most famous symbol of Isfahan, a city in central Iran. This monumental structure is the longest of the 11 bridges in Isfahan. It was constructed back in the early 17th century.
The bridge spans nearly 300 meters, or 980 feet, in length. Back when it was built, the Si-O-Se Pol was used both as a bridge and a dam.
Seri Wawasan Bridge
by Nik Azwaa Azmi
Location: Putrajaya, Malaysia
The Seri Wawasan Bridge is easily one of the most famous bridges in the world. This futuristic structure is one of the main connections in Putrajaya, a planned Malaysian city that was built in 2001. It quickly became famous due to its spectacular design that resembles a sailing ship.
If you’re planning a road trip to Malaysia, consider stopping over in Putrajaya to see this incredible bridge. The best time to visit has got to be after dusk falls.
Helix Bridge
by Daniel Peckham
Location: Singapore
This marvelous bridge fits right in with the rest of Marina Bay, a beautiful part of Singapore. It may not be the biggest bridge in the world, though it’s one of the most impressive ones for sure.
What makes this bridge unique is its design. The shape of the bridge resembles DNA! You simply have to stroll across this marvelous structure during your stay in town.
Tsing Ma Bridge
by Kai Yan, Joseph Wong
Location: Hong Kong SAR
It may have been beaten in terms of world records by now, though Hong Kong’s Tsing Ma Bridge remains one of the most impressive structures of its kind. At the time of its completion in 1997, it was the world’s second-longest suspension bridge at a1377m or 4518ft.
Today, the Tsing Ma Bridge still holds the record for the world’s longest bridge that carries both a motorway and a railway.
Africa may not have seemingly endless transatlantic bridges that you would see in other parts of the world. However, the 6th of October Bridge in downtown Cairo is arguably the most significant structure of this kind in all of Africa.
This busy bridge connects two districts of Cairo, that would otherwise be separated by the Nile River.
The famous Sydney Harbour Bridge is arguably just as much of a landmark as the Opera House. Both of the landmarks are just a short walk away from each other, sightseeing them is the ideal way to spend the day in Sydney.
Adventure seekers can go on a guided tour and climb to the top of the bridge! How cool is that?
Sea Cliff Bridge
by illawarrashowcase
Location: Stanwell Park, NSW
The Sea Cliff Bridge is a major highlight of the Grand Pacific Drive, which is one of the most scenic drives on the planet. Though far from the biggest in the world, the dramatic scenery makes Sea Cliff Bridge one of the best in the world.
Story Bridge
by Andrew S
Location: Brisbane, Queensland
The Story Bridge is a landmark of Brisbane, aside from being one of the most famous bridges in the world. Its construction began all the way back in the mid-1930s. Today, it proudly represents the city of Queensland.
Just like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is possible to climb this enormous bridge. Pricing starts at around $120 per person for the express climb. Click here for more details on climbing Story Bridge.
There are thousands of amazing things to do in Lake Tahoe all year long. Afterall, there’s a great reason why this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in this part of California. The lake is renowned for its jaw-dropping natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and all kinds of activities for the entire family.
We have divided this blog post into the following categories:
A visit to the Emerald Bay State Park should be on any traveler’s itinerary visiting Lake Tahoe. This bay is home to some of the most spectacular natural beauty in the area, and it’s bound to leave you breathless.
Don’t miss the Vikingsholm mansion, which looks like a monumental castle. Note that you’ll need to hike for around a mile from the car park to reach this attraction. If you ask me, it’s well worth it.
Consider packing some snacks when visiting Emerald Bay. After touring the Vikingsholm mansion, you can unwind at the picnic area nearby. You can also rent a kayak from Kayak Tahoe at their Emerald Bay location.
Don’t miss the Eagle Falls waterfalls right off the main road. You can drop your car off at the free car park and hike along the Eagle Falls trailhead that will eventually lead you all the way up to Eagle Lake.
The D.L. Bliss State Park is yet another must-visit point in the southern part of Lake Tahoe. This natural wonderland is located directly north of the Emerald Bay State Park, so you can easily visit one after the other.
Some of the best attractions at this wonderful State Park include hiking trails, pristine sandy beaches, landmarks, and remote campsites to spend the night.
by Andy Kasper
Hiking is one of the best ways to spend the day here. Don’t miss the Balancing Rock, Rubicon Point Lighthouse, or the sandy Lester Beach.
You can spend the night at the campsite for as low as $35 per night. Note that it costs extra to stay at the campsite located at the sandy beach, though it is well worth it for the killer views!
Gambling & The Resorts
While Lake Tahoe is all about the peaceful getaway to a natural wonderland, some travelers may want to take a break and spend the evening at a resort.
Gambling is only legal in Nevada, hence all of the best casinos are located in the southeast tip of the lake at Stateline Lake Tahoe. Some of the best resorts here include Harveys, Harrah’s, and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino,
Best Things To Do In North Lake Tahoe
Unwind At Kings Beach
Once you visit Kings Beach in the north part of Lake Tahoe, you are bound to fall in love. This cute beach town has an amazing vibe that will just make you want to stay here forever. Drive along Highway 28 to admire some of the picturesque local hotels and restaurants.
Kings Beach (March 2022)
Naturally, the vibrant beach is the main reason most tourists visit this town. Feel the sand between your toes, sunbathe or go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Photographers should bring their cameras along, as the scenery is unforgettable.
You can drop your car off at the beachside car park, right off the main road. Click here for directions.
Go For Breakfast At Spindleshanks Tahoe
Getting hungry? Grab a bite at Spindleshanks Tahoe, a local eatery by the Old Brockway Golf Course. This is probably the best spot for breakfast in North Lake Tahoe. Choose from a variety of dishes, we recommend the breakfast burrito as well as the 3-egg omelet. Complimentary parking is available right in front of the restaurant. Open daily from 9AM to 8PM.
Discover Local History At Donner Memorial State Park
The Donner Memorial State Park is yet another place worth visiting in the Lake Tahoe area. This park is home to lengthy hiking trails, peaceful picnic areas, and a local museum that contains many artifacts from the 19th century.
Travelers who want to learn more about local history should definitely pay the Emigrant Trail Museum a visit. It’s located in the town of Truckee, a short 20-minute drive out of Kings Beach.
Don’t miss the nearby town of Truckee and its cute Historic Downtown.
Best Things To Do In Lake Tahoe In The Summer
Day trip to Yosemite National Park
Fancy a dramatic change of scenery? Consider going on a day trip to Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite is one of the most famous National Parks in the country, and for a very good reason. The scenery here is truly breathtaking. You won’t miss the monumental Half Dome, as this peak overlooks the picturesque valley. There are thousands of great things to do in Yosemite, anything from scenic driving to rafting.
Yosemite National Park is far from the only amazing destination near Lake Tahoe. If you want to discover more of the local gems, it’s best to go on a road trip across California!
You could, for example, drive down along Highway 395 all the way until you end up in Los Angeles. There are lots of amazing spots to visit along the way, including Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite.
Afterward, you could continue further until you reach San Diego, or head back to Lake Tahoe via the Pacific Coast Highway, which is one of the best roads in the whole world!
If you’re planning to drive across California in a rental car, be sure to check out this blog post for insightful tips.
Beach Day
Take it slow, pack a towel and a pair of your favorite trunks, and head to one of the best beaches in Lake Tahoe.
There are tons of beautiful beaches dotted along the shore. Listing them all would take forever, these are our favorite picks:
Kiva Beach– a 200-yard long sandy beach in South Lake Tahoe, near Emerald Bay
Zephyr Cove Beach– this mile-long beach is one of the busiest in Lake Tahoe. Expect jet ski and canoe rentals, volleyball courts and a bunch of tourists especially during peak season
Conolley Beach– you can spend the day at the Tahoe Beach Retreat, a local beach club
Emerald Bay– Emerald Bay State Park is home to various pristine beaches, ideal for a refreshing dip after a hike
Kings Beach- one of the most popular beaches in North Lake Tahoe. Easily accessible and full of tourists
Sand Harbor Beach– easily one of the best beaches at Lake Tahoe, located at the east shore over in Nevada. Extremely busy during peak season
Don’t forget to take sunscreen!
Go On A Cruise or Rent A Kayak
What better way to make the most out of your time at Lake Tahoe than to spend the day on the surface of the lake (or beneath it).
Boat tours
Consider booking a scenic boat tour to see Lake Tahoe from a whole new perspective. Choose a trusted operator, such as Tahoe Cruises. The company offers an array of different tours to choose from, such as 2-hour long cruises around Emerald Bay, sunset cruises, or sightseeing tours around the southern shore of the lake. All cruises depart from the Ski Run Marina, located roughly halfway between South Lake Tahoe and Stateline.
Rent A Kayak, Canoe, or A Jet Ski
You can head over to one of the sandy beaches and rent a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, canoe, or a bunch of other fun equipment. Sand Harbor Beach is home to a jet ski rental, while kayaks can be rented at various locations such as Emerald Bay.
During peak season, be sure to book your equipment ahead. Visit SUP Tahoe and their official website for information on pricing and availability.
Fun Things To Do In Lake Tahoe In Winter
Photo by Nick Windsor
Squaw Valley & Alpine Meadows Ski Resorts
Skiing and snowboarding fans will feel right at home at Lake Tahoe.
You simply have to visit Squaw Valley during your winter trip to Lake Tahoe. This renowned alpine resort is one of the best places to go skiing in all of North America. It even used to host the Olympic games back in 1960!
Although Squaw Valley is a year-round destination, it’s unarguably best to come here during the winter season. Afterall, this is when you can make the most of the 4 000 acres of ski terrain.
This resort is ideal for all skiing fans, no matter their skill level. As much as a third of the runs are aimed at beginners and intermediate skiers, while the remaining slopes are perfect for experienced travelers.
Both resorts are located a short 10-minute drive west of Tahoe City.
Northstar California Resort
This is yet another world-class alpine resort located near Lake Tahoe. If you have the time, be sure to visit Northstar California during your winter trip to Lake Tahoe.
Just like Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows, Northstar California is ideal for all skill levels. Similar to the other alpine resorts at Lake Tahoe, Northstar California is a year-round destination. During the summer, you can come here to try out mountain biking, play a game of golf or hike to take in the views.
This ski resort lays a short 10-minute drive northwest of Agate Bay at the Northern tip of Lake Tahoe.
Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Although not as big as Squaw Valley or Northstar, Diamond Peak is worth visiting too! It’s typically less crowded than the more popular resorts. The runs are ideal for beginners and families. Nearly half of the 30 runs here are suitable for intermediate skiers.
Diamon Peak Ski Resort is located off Crystal Bay at the Northeast tip of the lake.
Bonus: What is the best way of getting around Lake Tahoe?
A private car is an ideal way of getting around Lake Tahoe. That way, you can visit all of the attractions throughout the lake, as well as the surrounding area.
If you plan to rent a car for this trip, be sure to check out Rentalmoose for the best deals. We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform!
Unsure about renting a car or taking your own vehicle? This blog post may help.
Manual cars are nowhere near as popular as automatics, though they aren’t gone completely. In fact, many suppliers around the globe still offer rental cars with a stick-shift transmission. Here’s a short guide to driving a manual car, just in case you need a quick reminder. If you’re wondering how to drive stick, you have come to the right place!
To keep things quick and simple, you can click one of the links below to jump to each section of the guide.
Be sure to check out our blog for more handy tips. Young drivers should take a look at this post. Wondering if now’s the right time to book your rental car? This guide may help.
Without further ado, let’s jump into this guide!
The Basics
Manual cars certainly aren’t for everyone. If you’re renting a car in the US, you probably won’t come across any rental cars with a stick-shift transmission. In other parts of the world, however, manual cars can be quite common. Transmissions are determined by the car type you book, so you can always see whether your rental car is a manual during the booking process.
Check out this guide to learn more about different rental car types, ACRISS codes, and the mysterious “or similar” phrase when booking a car.
Once you’re behind the wheel of an automobile equipped with a stick-shift, you will see three pedals:
Clutch– left
Brake– middle
Accelerator– right
Before driving off, you may want to find out how to turn the engine on in the first place. To start a car with an automatic transmission, you’ll simply need to push the brake pedal and press the engine start button, or turn the ignition key.
Things are a little bit different when it comes to manual cars.
How To Start A Manual Car
The first step to learning how to drive stick is finding out how to turn the engine on. Keep reading to find out.
1. Put the car in neutral
First and foremost, make sure the vehicle is in neutral.
2. Push down the clutch
To start the engine of a manual car, you first have to push down the clutch. That’s the pedal on the left-hand side.
3. Turn ignition
Turn the key in the ignition to start the engine. Make sure the engine is on before letting go of the key.
How To Drive A Manual Car
Once the engine is on, it’s time to set off!
1. Disengage the parking brake
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten about this. The truth is, you will not get very far with the parking brake pushed down. Ensure the parking brake is disengaged before driving off. If you see a “P” icon on the display, the brake is engaged.
2. Put the car in first gear
To get the car in gear, you first have to push down the clutch pedal. With the pedal pushed down, grab the gear stick and put it in first gear. You can use the diagram atop the stick to help you locate the gear. It’s usually in the top-left corner, though that can vary depending on the rental car.
3. Get going!
This is arguably the hardest step when learning how to drive stick. You have to slowly take your left foot off the clutch pedal. Once the car starts to roll, you can gently press the accelerator and lift your foot off the clutch. Be careful not to lift your left foot off the clutch too fast, as you may cause the car to stall.
That said, don’t worry if you stall the car! It’s a common occurrence, especially if it’s your first time driving stick in a while. Simply go back to square one, turn the engine on and try once again. It may take you a few failed attempts to feel the clutch.
4. Switching gears
Switching from first to second gear, then to third and so on is a lot less scary than it may seem. All you need to do is:
Lift your right foot off the throttle pedal
At the same time, push down the clutch pedal using your left foot
With the clutch down, move the gear shift to the desired gear position
Once the gear is engaged, slowly lift your left foot off the clutch
Push down the accelerator with your right foot, and you’re all set!
Repeat the process whenever you need to switch gears.
5. Coming to a complete stop
When approaching a red light or a stop sign, you’ll obviously need to come to a complete stop. Though the procedure is a little more complicated than stopping an automatic car, you’ll quickly get used to it!
Whenever you need to slow down, it’s enough to simply push down the brake pedal with your right foot. Note that you may want to switch into a lower gear, depending on how much speed you’ve lost.
If you want to come to a complete stop, you’ll need to push down the clutch with your left foot whenever the speed is lower than around 5 miles per hour (8km/h). Otherwise, the engine may stall.
When you’re standing still in a stick-shift car, it’s typically recommended to leave the transmission in neutral and apply the brake with your left foot.
6. Parking a manual car
Parking can get a little tricky, even with an automatic transmission. To engage reverse, you may need to push down the gear shift to disengage a safety lockout first. The method can vary slightly depending on the vehicle, it’s best to take a look at your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
Once the car is parked, it is highly recommended to leave it either in first gear or in reverse, with the parking brake applied all the way. That way, you can be sure that the car won’t roll down a hill.
Bonus: Starting on a hill
Starting on a hill is another task that can seem a little risky to those, who don’t have much experience driving a stick-shift.
The key to starting on a hill without rolling back is using the parking brake. Engage the parking brake first, then get in gear as you normally would and release the parking brake when you feel the car fighting against it. It may take a few tries to master, but it’s extremely useful to know this.
Now that you know how to drive stick, you’re all set for your next adventure!
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Rental car age limits can get quite confusing, especially if you’re traveling around different countries. Simply being over 18 years old may not be enough to rent a car, depending on the location, car type, as well as the rental company and its policies.
To keep things clear and simple, this blog post is divided into sections based on different countries. Click the links to jump to each section.
Young drivers will be happy to hear that they can rent vehicles in most European countries. In fact, the minimum age to rent a car in many countries in Europe is just 18. There are some exceptions, such as Bulgaria or Denmark.
Don’t forget to find your next rental car deal via Rentalmoose. Browse through thousands of locations and pick from the world’s most trusted suppliers. Rentalmoose cares about a better tomorrow, we plant a tree for every booking!
Rentalmoose insider tip: Are you a young driver? Perhaps it’s been a while since you’ve driven a manual car. Check out this handy guide to driving a stick-shift.
Keep in mind that your rental company can add extra policies on top of the limits in each country. Be sure to double-check the limits directly with your rental company before booking. That way, you can avoid any misunderstandings during the rental period.
Don’t forget that drivers younger than 25 can face a “young driver fee” added on top of their rental bill. You can learn more about rental car fees in this blog post.
Austria
You have to be at least 18 years old to rent a car in Austria. The country has no maximum age to rent a car, though rental companies may add a senior driver surcharge for older customers.
Belgium
The minimum age to rent a car in Belgium is 19. There is no maximum age to rent a car in Belgium. Young drivers who are less than 25 years old should expect to pay a daily young driver surcharge.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria has some of the strictest rental car limits in Europe. Drivers younger than 21 will not be able to rent a car at all, same as seniors who are above 70 years old. A young driver fee will be added for drivers younger than 25.
Croatia
Croatia is a spectacular Balkan country with scenic roads that make for a perfect road trip destination. Anyone over the age of 18 should be able to rent a car from most suppliers. Note that the maximum age to rent a car in Croatia is 70.
Cyprus
A road trip around Cyprus is the ideal way to actively spend time on this beautiful island. Most suppliers require the renter to be at least 21 years old. Interestingly, most rental companies require at least 3 years of driving experience in order to rent a car in Cyprus.
Czech Republic
Most suppliers require the renter to be either 19 or 21 to rent a vehicle, at the very least. There is no maximum age to rent a car in the Czech Republic.
Denmark
The absolute minimum age to rent a car in Denmark is 21, though some suppliers do raise the limit to at least 23 years of age. There is no maximum age, though it can be imposed by the rental company. As always, be sure to double-check with the supplier before finalizing the booking.
Estonia
Estonia, the home of Rentalmoose, is a vastly underrated tourist destination in the North-East of Europe. Most suppliers will rent a car to anyone over 19, as long as they’ve had their license for at least a year. Young driver fees for drivers under 25 years of age are common and should be expected.
Finland
You need to be anywhere between 20 and 97 years old to be able to rent a car in Finland. What makes renting a car in Finland unique is the fact that most suppliers won’t charge a young driver surcharge. That said, it is completely up to the rental company to add a young driver fee for anyone between 21 and 25 years of age.
France
France has some of the lightest rental car limits in all of Europe. Anyone over the age of 18 should have no issues renting a car, as long as they’ve had a driving license for at least a year. Young driver fees are common and can add up to 40 EUR per day, on top of your rental car bill.
Germany
Germany is the perfect destination to explore by rental car. You can drive through the wonderful Black Forest, or discover Munich and its jaw-dropping surrounding area.
Most suppliers will rent a vehicle to anyone over the age of 18, though some raise the minimum age limit up to 21 years of age. Young driver fees will be applied to most renters aged between 18 and 25, depending on the rental company and its policies.
Greece
No matter whether you’re going to mainland Greece or one of the country’s spectacular islands, a private car is the most convenient way of getting around. In order to rent a car in Greece, you have to be at least 21 years old. Some suppliers also require the renter to be younger than 75.
Hungary
Much like Greece or Denmark, you need to be at least 21 years old in order to rent a car in Hungary. Most suppliers won’t let seniors over 85 book a rental car, either. Both young and senior drivers should expect an additional surcharge on top of their rental bill.
Ireland
Ireland is infamous for its strict rules when it comes to booking a rental car. Although the legal limit to rent a car here is 21 years of age, most suppliers won’t rent an automobile to drivers younger than 23. What’s more, drivers older than 75 may be required to prove that they have had a clean, accident-free driving history for the past five years.
Italy
You have to be at least 18 years old to rent a car in Italy. However, some suppliers raise the minimum age limit to 21 years. It’s best to double-check with your rental company before finalizing the transaction.
Netherlands
Young driver fees are commonplace in the Netherlands. The minimum age to rent a car varies from 21 to 23, depending on the rental company. As always, be sure to read through the terms and conditions before booking. Here are 9 other reasons why you should always read the T&Cs.
Norway
Norway’s spectacular natural beauty makes for a perfect destination to be discovered via rental car. You will have to be at least 19 years old to rent a car in Norway. Most companies will add a young driver surcharge for renters under 25.
Poland
When it comes to cheap tourist destinations in Europe, Poland may be one of the best picks. The vibrant city of Warsaw, or the scenic Baltic Sea coast are ideal for a summer road trip.
When it comes to renting a car in Poland, most suppliers require the renters to be at least 18 years old and have a year of driving experience at the very least. The young driver surcharge is typically only applied when the renter is below 21 years old.
Portugal is yet another European country with relatively light limitations when it comes to renting a car. As long as you’re over 18 years old and have had your license for at least a year, booking a rental car should not be an issue. Note that seniors who are over 80 years old may not be able to rent a car at all.
Serbia
Rental companies in Serbia will not permit anyone under 21 to rent a car. There is no limit for senior drivers, though.
Slovakia
The rules in Slovakia are rather relaxed when it comes to young drivers. Most suppliers won’t have any issues, as long as the driver is over 19 years old. Drivers younger than 23 years old should expect a daily young driver surcharge.
Spain
Spain’s Costa del Sol or the Northern tip of the country are best explored by car. When it comes to young drivers, most rental companies set the age limit of at least 21, while others raise it to 23 years of age. Drivers younger than 25 will face a young driver fee, too.
Sweden
Sweden’s age limits for car rentals are among the most confusing in all of Europe. They can vary greatly depending on the rental company, ranging from 18 years of age with no young driver fees all the way to 21 or even above. Once again, don’t forget to double-check with the supplier before booking your rental car.
Switzerland
Most tourists will think of Switzerland as a winter wonderland, though the country is worth visiting all year long! The rental limits are far more relaxed than Switzerland’s infamous traffic laws. Most companies require the renter to be either 19 or 21 years old at the very least. There is no maximum limit for seniors.
Turkey
Driving across the sunny Turkish Riviera is a perfect way to spend the summer holidays. Most suppliers require the renter to be at least 21 years old, with at least a year of driving experience. Drivers younger than 25 should expect a daily surcharge. Seniors older than 70 may have limited access to the inventory.
United Kingdom
While a rental car may not be the ideal way of getting around London, it is extremely convenient to have a car if you’re planning to travel between different cities in the United Kingdom. Most companies require the renter to be at least 21 years old, though some may rent their vehicles out to drivers as young as 17. Young driver fees apply to all renters younger than 25, and they can add up to 40 pounds per day.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in North American countries?
Note that the rental limits vary depending on the region and the supplier. In the end, it all depends on the rental company and their policies. Ensure you are eligible to rent a car before booking your vehicle. Contact the supplier directly for verification, if necessary.
Canada
If you want to rent a car in Canada, you have to be at least 21 years old. Like in most other countries, you are required to have held your driving license for at least a year. Note that a young driver fee may be added for renters younger than 25.
Mexico
A road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula, or exploring Baja California by car should land on the bucket list of any traveler. Young drivers may find it difficult to rent a car here, as virtually no supplier will rent a vehicle to someone younger than 21. Young driver fees will be added if the renter is between 21 and 24 years old.
United States of America
Car rental age limits in the US are perhaps the most confusing in the world. The rules vary greatly depending on the state and the rental company. In most states, the renter has to be at least 18 years old. Many suppliers raise the minimum age to 21 years, though.
Young driver fees can be added to the bill if the renter is under 25, though that too depends on the state and the policy of the supplier. Most states don’t have a maximum age to rent a car, though seniors may only have access to a limited part of the inventory.
Rental Car Age Limits in Different Countries Around The World
Australia
You need to be at least 21 years old to drive a rental car across the Great Ocean Road, for example. The minimum age to rent a car in Australia is 21. Drivers younger than 25 should expect a surcharge. As always, be sure to double-check the limit with the rental company, as some locations may have a higher limit than others.
Indonesia
Few holiday ideas are as fantastic as a road trip around Bali. Note that you need to be at least 23 years old to rent a car in Indonesia. At least 1 year of driving experience, based on the issue date of your license, is required.
New Zealand
The vast majority of suppliers set the minimum age limit to rent a car in New Zealand to at least 21 years. Hertz, however, does allow 18 year olds to rent cars in some of their New Zealand locations. Drivers below 25 years of age should expect young driver surcharges.
Singapore
In order to rent a car in Singapore, the renter should be between 23 and 70 years old. However, some suppliers may allow drivers as young as 21 to rent a car. It’s all down to the company and its individual policies, hence it’s best to directly get in touch with the supplier before booking.
Don’t forget to use Rentalmoose to find the best rental car deal for your next road trip!
Post your pictures from your next road trip online using #Rentalmoose! Our favorite ones will be featured in our travel guides.
Get your car from Rentalmoose, we plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.
California is truly one of the greatest destinations to rent a car, no matter if you want to get around San Francisco, drive along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, drive up Highway 395 to Lake Tahoe, or go for a road trip over to Nevada. Either way, California makes for an ideal starting point for your journey.
Check out our guide to ensure that booking your next rental car is a seamless, fun experience. Here’s all you need to know about renting a car in California.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent a Car in California?
You have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the state of California. However, this wasn’t always the case. In fact, virtually all rental companies required the renter to be at least 25 just a couple of decades back. Here’s why.
Back in the late 20th century, renters under the age of 25 weren’t exactly profitable for suppliers. Young drivers were, on average, more likely to have an accident or get caught driving under the influence. Renting cars to young people was a risk that most companies did not want to take. Instead of modifying the rental agreements to better suit young drivers, they chose not to permit them altogether.
Luckily, times have changed. Renting a car shouldn’t be an issue for most drivers aged between 21 and 25. Some local rental companies may even let drivers as young as 18 rent a vehicle, as long as they’ve had their license for at least a year. There is one major catch, though.
Extra Fees For Young Drivers
If you’ve ever rented a car in the past, you are probably well aware of this. Pretty much every single rental company will charge an additional young driver fee, also referred to as a young driver surcharge. The fee is calculated on a per-day basis and added on top of your rental bill.
You can expect the young driver fee to be anywhere between $20 and $90 per day. The fee can vary, depending on the location, the car type, and the rental period. In the end, it all boils down to the rental company and their policies. It’s best to double-check directly with the supplier before booking your vehicle.
You can also dive into the terms and conditions for more info on fees. Here is why we recommend thoroughly reading the T&Cs before booking your vehicle.
Once again, you may be surprised to hear that there are a handful of exceptions to this rule. Some 18-year olds may be exempt from paying a young driver surcharge. Keep reading to find out more.
How To Avoid Young Driver Fees
There are a couple of ways to make your way around the young driver surcharge. Some of them are quite sneaky!
AAA Members
One of the easiest would be to become a member of the AAA. Memberships start at just around $60 per year, and most rental companies waive young driver fees to AAA members. If you’re planning to rent a vehicle for more than a few days, it may be worth getting an AAA membership.
Military and Government Employees
Young government and military employees, aged anywhere between 18 and 25, can often benefit from no young driver fees. In addition, most companies will even let an 18-year old government/military employee rent a car! In the vast majority of cases, this only applies to official business trips though.
USAA Members
The majority of rental companies waive young driver fees to all members of the USAA. To become a member of the USAA, you have to be a member of the US military. This applies to both active as well as former members, as well as their spouses and children.
Do You Need An International Driving Permit in California?
No! California does not require foreign drivers to obtain an International Driving Permit. Tourists can legally drive on California’s roads using their local driving license.
As long as the driver is at least 18 years old, has a lawfully issued driving license from their home country, and the license covers the vehicle type that they are driving, you’re all good to go! In fact, the same applies for most states in the US.
Note that some rental companies may require renters to obtain an IDP. While this is uncommon, it’s not completely unheard of. Once again, it’s best to double-check with the supplier before finalizing your booking.
Renting A Car in California- Tips and Tricks
Now that you’re all ready to being your California adventure, don’t forget to take a look at our tips and tricks. They may just make your trip even better!
Consider Extra Coverage
Unlike Europe, rental cars in the United States do not come with CDW or Theft Protection as standard. Basic protection is extremely limited, and it is strongly recommended to purchase additional coverage. You can learn more about rental car insurance in this blog post.
Check with your credit card company, many US residents have rental car insurance included in their credit card plan! Note that in some cases, you may only be eligible for coverage if you’ve paid for the rental car using that particular card.
Keep in mind that if you choose to purchase additional coverage directly at the counter, you will be charged more! It’s always cheaper to purchase coverage online, prior to your trip.
Beware of the Fees
It’s crucial to be aware of all the extra fees that are right around the corner. We have a list of nearly 20 of the most common extra fees that can quickly add up to your rental bill. Take a look at them right here.
Airport Pick-up and Drop-off
It is unarguably the most convenient to pick up your rental car directly at the airport terminal, and drop it off right before heading on the plane. Note that virtually every rental company will charge you an extra “premium location surcharge” for airport pick-up and drop-off.
If you want your rental bill to stay low, it’s best to pick a different location.
High Fuel Prices
Last but not least, don’t forget that California has some of the most expensive gas in the entire country. While fuel prices in Cali are still lower than those in Europe, it is over a dollar higher than the national average. You should take the high prices into consideration, especially when planning a long cross-country road trip.
You can check the current gas prices by state right here.
Now that you know how old do you have to be to rent a car in California, the tips and tricks to California car rental, and lots of other useful info, it’s time to go ahead and book your adventure!
Don’t forget to use Rentalmoose to compare the best deals from our trusted suppliers.
