In Central America, for example, drivers use their blinkers to indicate when it's safe for you to pass them.
While most drivers in Texas will stay in the passing lane no matter how fast or slow they are going, in countries such as Germany and France,you will learn to always stay in the slow lane unless you plan to practice for a road race or want to get run over by an approaching BMW or Renault.
Before your trip, enroll in a road side assistance program such as A.
A.
A.
in the United States or C.
A.
A.
in Canada.
In addition to offering towing service if you break down, these associations provide maps, tour books, travel accessories,and auto and health insurance.
To ensure the safest driving journey for yourself, you'll want everything tuned up and in good working order prior to your trip.
I also recommend buying the appropriate repair or owner's manual for your car.
Familiarize yourself with all the necessary equipment to change a tire, and be prepared with flares and basic tools.
If you're like me, you can't tell the difference between a set of metric and U.
S.
standard tools.
That doesn't stop me from at least tinkering around to attempt to figure out what the problem might be.
If you can't fix it yourself, there are always those roadside-assistance programs to help out.
The closer to your travel date, the more expensive the rental typically is, as fewer cars are available (economy cars sell out first) and the rental agencies know you need their services.
Fortunately, few rental companies require that you guarantee your rental with a credit card.
This gives you the opportunity to book your car and then shop around or even re-book with the same company if their rates go down.
Renting off-site is cheaper than renting directly at the airport,as there are additional taxes involved if the agency is located at the terminal.
Of course, you can book at the last minute or directly at a rental counter, but chances are that you'll pay more if you haven't compared costs.
You may have several rental agencies to choose from once you land.
I've walked to a couple of different rental counters at an airport to see who would give me the best deal by mentioning lower quotes from other agents.
When renting a car, thoroughly scrutinize it for dents and scratches before you leave the lot.
Check the gas to make sure you're leaving the lot with a completely full tank.
If it's not full, require that they fill it up or indicate the gas level on your paperwork.
With the high price of gas, you do not want to get stuck paying for someone else's trip! Don't forget to return the car with a full tank.
On my way out of the airport, I make note of the nearest gas station, so I can easily fill up upon my return.
I learned that after many trips of having to backtrack from the airport to find the nearest pump.