Car Hire in Alki, Seattle, United States

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.

Before renting a car, check if your personal car insurance covers rental losses. Many personal auto insurance policies and credit cards offer coverage for rentals, which could save you from extra insurance fees.

If you're traveling with pets, check the rental agency’s pet policy. Some companies allow pets, but additional fees or specific conditions may apply.

If you plan to drive off-road, confirm with the rental company whether it’s permitted. Not all vehicles are suited for off-road conditions.

When renting a car, understand the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy means you return the car with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' means you return it with the same level of fuel. Full-to-Full is often more cost-effective.

Look up fuel prices in the area where you'll return the vehicle. Refueling at a local station is often cheaper than paying the rental company's rates.

When looking at insurance, consider options with zero excess coverage, meaning you won’t need to pay a deductible for damages, providing extra peace of mind.

If you're looking for extra comfort or features, ask about upgrade possibilities at the rental desk. Often, there are discounted upgrades available at pickup.