Refueling Options


     There usually is many options for refueling your rental car. Make sure you understand each option before you return your car. Most of the time your best bet is to refuel the car yourself at any gas station. You are only required to fill the tank to the level it was when you picked the vehicle up (usually full), but make sure your contract reflects the correct amount. If you don't want to bother stopping at a gas station, you can save time by paying the rental car agency to refill the tank for you, however, they usually charge substantially higher prices than a local gas station. Most rental car companies will offer a pre-payment option when you pick up your rental car. This option allows you to purchase a full tank of gas (sometimes at a lower price per gallon), so you don't have to stop at a gas station. However, this might turn out to be a bad idea if you know you aren't going to be using a full tank, because unused gas will not be refunded.

     Refilling the gas tank on your own is generally the cheapest if you are not going to use a full tank. But be sure to allow enough time to find a gas station, especially if you are returning your rental car to an agency located at the airport, because it is often difficult to find a gas station near an airport. The FAA requires airports to be separated from the vicinity of gas stations for safety reasons. So try to locate one that will still allow you to make your flight on time.


Which Cars Have Good Gas Mileage?


     Compact cars generally get the most miles per gallon. Cars like the Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Dodge Neon can get around 33-36 miles per gallon. Compact cars are great for driving long distances on a little bit of gas, and they often have the best rates. Refer to the Compact Car descriptions for more information.