Smarter Car Renting

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

•  Damaged: Always carefully eyeball your vehicle before leaving the rental agency, whether you're in Scotts Valley 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.

•  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 Scotts Valley 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 Scotts Valley attractions

Scotts Valley CA Area Attractions

• Bethany College
• Santa Cruz Mystery Spot (2.53 miles)
• Mystery Spot (2.92 miles)
• Capitaurus Bigfoot Discovery Museum (3.37 miles)
• Cypress Outpatient Surgical (4.51 miles)
• Dominican Hospital (4.63 miles)
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (6.01 miles)
• Seymour Marine Discovery Center (7.16 miles)
• S.S. Palo Alto Concrete Ship (8.16 miles)
• Montalvo Arts Center (13.61 miles)
• Hakone Gardens (13.83 miles)
• Community Hospital of Los Gatos (14.80 miles)
• Campbell Historical Museum (16.99 miles)
• Picchetti Winery (17.72 miles)
• Santa Clara Valley Medical Center (18.70 miles)
• Winchester Mystery House (18.82 miles)
• O'Connor Hospital (19.55 miles)
• Lou's Living Doughnut Museum (20.13 miles)

Scotts Valley rental guide