Car Hire in Excelsior, San Francisco, United States

Research fuel prices in the area where you'll return the vehicle. Filling up at a local station may be cheaper than paying for fuel through the rental company, especially if they charge higher rates.

Ensure that you have a valid driving licence with at least one year of driving experience. If you are a foreign driver travelling to San Francisco, an international driving permit may be required. Remember, hire rates can be higher for drivers under 25 or over 70

Research toll roads on your travel route and familiarize yourself with their payment methods. Some rental agencies offer toll transponders for convenience.

Familiarize yourself with the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy requires returning the vehicle with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' requires it to be returned at the same fuel level. Full-to-Full is generally more economical.

Before leaving the rental location, check that the vehicle is stocked with essential emergency supplies such as a spare tire, jack, and first aid kit.

If you have a specific vehicle in mind, opt for rentals that guarantee your chosen car type. This ensures that you receive the vehicle you expect, rather than being offered an alternative.

If sharing driving responsibilities, check the policies regarding additional drivers. Some companies charge fees for each extra driver, while others may include it for free under certain conditions.

Some rental companies offer a free tank of fuel with your rental. Be sure to understand the terms, including how much fuel you need to return the car with and any potential fees for not meeting these conditions.