For road trips, rentals, and electric vehicles—because the ride is part of the adventure.

Driving is one of the most flexible, spontaneous, and personal ways to check off bucket list items—whether you’re driving out-of-town, road-tripping across the U.S., navigating winding coastlines abroad, or renting a car for a weekend escape. But smart driving takes more than just GPS and a full tank or a charged battery. It takes the right car, the right plan, and a readiness for the unexpected.

General Car Travel & Road Trip Tips

Plan for More Than the Highway

• Balance Time & Terrain: Google Maps may show a 5-hour drive—but that doesn't include scenic stops, photo ops, traffic, or backroads. Always add at least 20–30% time for exploration.

• Use an App Like Roadtrippers or iExit: These help you plan rest stops, unique attractions, food, gas, and scenic viewpoints along the way.

 Pack Smarter for the Road

• Essentials for Every Vehicle:

• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter

• Tire inflator and sealant

• Flashlight/headlamp

• Reusable water bottles, electrolyte drinks, and snacks

• Wipes, tissues, travel toilet paper

• Blanket or emergency foil blanket

• Phone charger + backup battery pack

• Car mount for GPS/phone use

• Consider the Season:

• Winter: snow scraper, tire chains, hand warmers

• Summer: sunshade, extra water, cooling towel

 Pro Tip: Give Your Car a "Departure Day Check"

• Top off fluids (oil, washer fluid, coolant)

• Check tire pressure (including the spare!)

• Fill up the tank and/or fully charge the battery

• Confirm your registration and insurance are current

Rental Car Tips

Before You Book

• Use a Trusted Booking Site or Direct Company: Sites like Kayak, Expedia, or AutoSlash compare deals. Booking directly often makes changes or upgrades easier.

• Check Age Limits & Additional Driver Fees: Under 25 or over 70 may have restrictions. Some companies charge extra for every driver.

• Know Your Coverage: Decide if you're using your credit card insurance, personal auto policy, or purchasing theirs—don’t double-pay unless needed.

• Compare Pick-Up/Drop-Off Costs: Airport pick-ups may cost more than off-site. Returning to a different location can incur steep one-way fees.

 Rental Car Pick-Up Tips

• Ask What Fuel It Takes: Diesel is common in Europe; filling up incorrectly can damage the engine and void your contract.

• Photograph, or Even Better Video, Everything at Pickup (and Return):

• All 4 sides

• Interior condition

• Fuel gauge and odometer

• Any dents or scratches

• Confirm What’s Included: GPS, toll transponders, child seats, snow tires, etc.—don’t assume they’re standard.

 Electric Vehicle (EV) Travel Tips

EVs are increasingly popular for road trips, rentals, and eco-conscious travel—but they require extra awareness and planning.

 Know Before You Go

• Understand Your EV’s Range: Know the realistic range, not just the ideal number—weather, elevation, and speed affect it.

• Download Charging Station Apps:

• U.S.: PlugShare, ChargePoint, Electrify America, EVgo

• Europe: A Better Route Planner (ABRP), Chargemap

• Canada: FLO, BC Hydro

• Tesla: Use built-in navigation for Superchargers

• Call Ahead: Not all hotels or destinations have EV chargers—even if they say they do. Confirm voltage and availability.

• Have a Backup Plan: Charging stations can be full, out of order, or slow. Always have a Plan B within 20–30 miles of range.

 Bring These Extras

• Level 1 charging cable (for standard wall outlets)

• Charging adapters (especially for travel across regions)

• Charging network card/account set up before you leave

EV Insider Tips

• Plan Charging During Meals: Combine recharge stops with dining or sightseeing.

• Precondition the Battery While Plugged In: If your EV allows it, warm or cool the cabin before you unplug—saves battery.

• Beware of Altitude + Cold: These two can dramatically reduce battery range—especially in mountainous or winter regions.

 Key Benefits of Car Rental Loyalty Clubs

Skip the Counter

• Walk right to your vehicle and skip long lines—especially at busy airports. Programs like Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Emerald Club let you go straight to the lot and choose your car.

Faster Pick-Up & Drop-Off

• Your info is stored in your profile—license, payment, preferences—which makes the entire rental process smoother and faster.

Free Upgrades

• Members are often eligible for free or discounted car class upgrades, especially during low-demand periods or when your reserved car isn’t available.

Points Toward Free Rentals

• Every rental earns you points toward free rental days, discounts, or specialty vehicles. Some programs let you cash in with as little as 600 points.

Exclusive Discounts & Offers

• Get access to members-only pricing, early sale notifications, and bonus point promotions.

Waived or Reduced Fees

• Some programs waive second driver fees or offer free additional drivers (e.g., spouses or partners with the same address).

Earn Airline or Hotel Points Too

• Many rental programs let you link your profile to frequent flyer or hotel loyalty programs to double dip on rewards.

Better Service Internationally

• Loyalty programs often give you priority service at international branches and easier resolution if issues arise abroad.

Priority Customer Service

• Members often receive access to dedicated support lines with shorter wait times and faster help during changes, cancellations, or problems.

Driving Abroad or in Unfamiliar Countries

International Essentials

• Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) if required (valid in 150+ countries and inexpensive).

• Understand Local Road Rules: Research speed limits, signage, toll systems, and drive-side (left vs. right).

• Watch for Zone Restrictions: Cities like Rome, London, and Paris have low-emission zones or ZTLs that fine drivers without permits.

• Avoid Unfamiliar Manual Transmissions unless you’re confident—manuals are far more common abroad.

 Parking Smart

• Research Parking Apps & Rules: Look up Parkopedia or city-specific apps for on-street and garage parking.

• Take Photos of Your Car & Street Signs: Helps you find your spot and avoid towing or fines.

• Bring Coins: Some parking machines still don’t accept cards.

 Overlooked but Important Driving Tips

• Always Lock the Car & Hide Valuables: Especially in tourist-heavy areas.

• Bring a Small Trash Bag & Wet Wipes: You'll thank yourself on Day 2 of the trip.

• Adjust for “Reverse Jet Lag” if Driving Upon Arrival: If flying into a different time zone, don’t schedule long or tricky drives right away.

• Use a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot or Download Maps: Some car GPS units are outdated or in a different language.