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 Lodi before arrival or verify in the rental policy and rules to see which forms of payment they accept.

•  Damaged: Always carefully eyeball your vehicle before leaving the rental agency, whether you're in Lodi or East Podunkville. The last renter may have pulled in after a meteor shower! Prior scratches, dents, and other vehicle damage can cause extra headaches and costs if not noted before you leave the rental car lot. If you see any damage on the car's exterior and interior before you leave, make sure it's noted on the rental car papers, and point it out to an agency employee. This will resolve any questions that could arise when you return. And avoid meteor showers.

•  Under 25? Everyone over 25 assumes you are an awkward and unpredictable risk behind the wheel. Ridiculous, you say, without taking your eyes off the road. But be sure to check with Lodi California car rental companies about their specific policies. Some agencies require the driver to be at least 25 while other rental companies may allow younger drivers to rent for an additional fee. Have more than one driver? Be sure to ask if additional charges apply for more than one person driving the rental car.

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Lodi CA Area Attractions

• Fairmont Rehabilitation Hospital
• Great Valley Serpentarium
• Lodi Memorial Hospital
• Micke Grove Zoo
• Wine Country Care Center
• Humphreys College (8.30 miles)
• University of the Pacific (10.27 miles)
• Saint Joseph Medical Center (10.87 miles)
• Mission Accomplished Bible Clg (11.32 miles)
• Haggin Museum (11.67 miles)
• King of the Windmills (11.77 miles)
• Community Medical Center (11.88 miles)
• Children's Museum of Stockton (12.15 miles)
• Harlequin House Art Center (12.84 miles)
• Lathrop's Crashed UFO (20.85 miles)
• Bartley Cavanaugh Golf Course (25.24 miles)
• Gun-toting Giant (28.33 miles)
• Bing Maloney Golf Course (28.57 miles)

Lodi rental guide