Smarter Car Renting

Here are car rental tips from the road trip-seasoned editors of RoadsideAmerica.com:

•  Credit Cards for Pick-Up: Many agencies require a credit card upon pick-up. Yes, Opie, we live in that kind of world. So make sure you are in good standing with your "plastic." Call the car rental agency in Carlsbad before arrival or verify in the rental policy and rules to see which forms of payment they accept.

•  Car Types: When selecting a car type, remember it's not just about how cool you'll appear. The car selection page details show an average of how many people and how many pieces of luggage can comfortably fit in each car type. Pay attention to the specifics to be certain they meet your needs before booking.

•  Special Requests: Special requests can be noted at the time you make your Carlsbad rental car reservation. Nothing too crazy, though. If you are in need of an infant or toddler car seat, navigation system, ski rack or more, be sure to make note of it when booking online. Keep in mind that requests are not guaranteed and additional fees may apply.

Click here to see Carlsbad attractions

Carlsbad CA Area Attractions

• Alt Karlsbad Hanse House
• LEGOLAND California
• The Flower Fields
• Oceanside Municipal Pier (2.80 miles)
• Oceanside Museum of Art (3.37 miles)
• Tri-City Medical Center (3.64 miles)
• Camp Joseph H. Pendleton (5.14 miles)
• Mission San Luis Rey (5.26 miles)
• Rancho Buena Vista Adobe (7.30 miles)
• Rock 'n' Roll Tribute House (8.13 miles)
• San Dieguito Heritage Museum (8.46 miles)
• Boat Houses (9.02 miles)
• Scripps Memorial Hospital (9.22 miles)
• San Dieguito Hospital (9.22 miles)
• Palomar College (9.27 miles)
• Old California Restaurant Row (9.46 miles)
• Old Adobe Fine Art (10.85 miles)
• California State University - San Marcos (10.93 miles)

Carlsbad rental guide