Car Hire in Hayes Valley, San Francisco, United States

If you plan to share driving, check if the rental company allows a second driver and whether there are additional fees. Some companies offer free second driver options under certain conditions.

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.

If you’re sharing driving responsibilities, check the regulations regarding additional drivers. Some agencies may charge extra fees, while others might offer complimentary drivers under certain conditions.

Take time to carefully read the rental agreement. Being informed about the terms will help you avoid hidden fees and ensure a smooth rental process.

When renting a car, especially after travelling by train, allocate extra time for pickup to account for possible delays. Most car hire companies offer a 30-60 minute grace period. Sharing your train number can be helpful, but if you're running late, be sure to contact the car hire provider to let them know.

If you have a specific vehicle model in mind, opt for rentals that assure the car type. This prevents surprises at pickup if a different vehicle is provided.

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.

Most rental companies prefer credit cards and might have limitations on debit card usage. Always check the accepted payment methods prior to booking.