Kids Car Games

Traveling with kids for long car rides is not always easy. They get antsy, they fight, they just want to get to destination. Though today you can find a lot of technology to make the trip seem shorter, it is also a good idea to plan a few games to interact with them along the road. After all they can watch their DVD at home! So keep them for the time, where you just don’t have another way out! Here is a list of fun kids car games that can make the trip a little more fun and shorter for your children!

Kids Car Game: I Spy

In this kids car game, you take turn at selecting something out of the car and describe it by it shape or color. Then you say “I spy something… round, or tall , or green” and the other must guess what you selected. The one who gets it right,  gets to spy next. And so on..

Kids Car Game: Spot the Alphabet

A great game to review the alphabet for younger and make them learn new words or practice the one they are learning is “spot the alphabet”. This kids car game is about spotting things on the road and around that start with the letters of the alphabet, going in order. A : ambulance, B: bicycle, C: cow…. T: tree… you go one after the other.

Kids Car Game: License Plate

Another popular kids car game is the License Plate game. You can make your kids search for the most states on license plates. Or you can give a number or a letter and they will have to look for a plate with the number and letter. For older kids you can make it more challenging and give a letter and number together, or 2 letters or numbers… You can keep track of who gets most of the plates and give a prize at the end.

Kids Car Game: Find what’s on the list

You can also plan kids car games ahead of time. An easy one you can do for kids that can already read is to make a list of things they will have to find during the trip and the one that spots the most things on the list wins. If your kids can’t read yet you can do the same with images instead. You can put  things as a red car, a tree, a gas station, a stop sign on the list…. Whatever you think of and you know you will pass sooner or later on the road.

Kids Car Game: Guess What I think about

Another fun kids car game is “Guess what I think about”. This car game is good for younger kids to learn how to focus and listen. It also helps them practice shapes and colors. First, one of you thinks about an animal or an object and tell the other the category. Then, one after the other you ask a question to find out more. He /she can only answer with yes or no. For example, if you think about a cat, the other could ask does it has feathers? No, is it big? No, does it have a tail? Yes… and so on, until one finds out what you were thinking about. Then you move to the next player and start guessing with the other.

Kids Car Game: Stop the Music

Music is always fun for kids. If you have some of their favorite music on CDs, you can play “stop the music”. This car game is always fun! They have to sing the song along with the music and you can stop the music when ever and they have to know the lyrics following. This can be a game for older kids, but if you have CDs with songs for youngsters they may like it as well, and it can be a good way to teach them the songs and train their memory! If this is too challenging, you can tell them to “freeze”, as soon as the music stops. It will be funny to  see how everybody gets “stuck”.

Kids Car Game: Car Color Competition

The “Car Color Competition” game is the kids car game where they each pick a car color and have to count the cars of that color they see over a certain period of time. You give them a mile, or 5 minutes… to find as many cars possible. This is a great game for kids learning to count, and to help them review colors.

Kids Car Game: Writing games

Other possibilities of kids’ car games are writing games. This is not always possible as some children get carsick or get headaches from writing or reading in the car. But if they can handle it, those games can give you a little rest time for yourself without putting them in front of a DVD! You can print some Tic Tac Toe pages, or they can play hang man, or even color books. You can also ask them to write down things you see to work on their spelling. And if they can really handle reading, ask them to read story out loud to one another!

Car rides don’t have to always be long and boring. Plan kids car games, and you will see, the ride will not only seem shorter for your kids, but for you as well!

Driving To Mexico

Mexico can be a fun and interesting country to visit. When you are so close to the border it seems a shame to not take advantage of it and visit a bit of Mexico. It’s a great idea, and a great opportunity. However, it is important to know a few things before driving to Mexico. Just like in any other country there are rules and regulations you must follow carefully before driving, so keep reading for a few tips on what you should know.

Check with your Rental Company if driving to Mexico is allowed.

If you are renting a car, the first step to take is ask your rental company if you are allowed to drive out of the US to Mexico with the car. Some rental companies refuse to let you cross the border driving. However, Fox Rent A Car allows you to take your economy to full size category rental car to Mexico, after you have have purchased a special Mexico insurance through Fox Rent A Car.

What do you need to drive in Mexico?

– Car registration: You need to bring your car registration, when you want to drive a car into Mexico. If it is not under your name, you must be in possession of an authorized letter stating you are granted the right to take the car into Mexico. You will receive this letter, when you purchase your insurance with Fox Rent A Car.

– Passport: Americans used to be able to cross the border to Mexico with their ID card or drivers license. However, since June 1, 2009 US  citizens are required to have a valid passport to cross the border or they will be refused to reenter the United States at the border.

– Visa: Depending on how far you want to venture into Mexico and how long you are staying, you might be required to get a visa before driving to Mexico. If you are planning on staying in Mexico for less than 72 hours and not driving further than about 70 miles away from the border, then you just need your passport. If you want to stay longer or go further you must get a tourist card from the Mexican embassy. If you are visiting for business you need to get the authorization form FM-N that allows you to stay for 30 days.

– Special permits: If you are driving beyond the “border zone” (the 70 miles allowance) you must get a special permit, called a temporary import permit. You can get it at the Mexican consulates or the Mexican Army Bank. However, if you wish to do this, be prepared because you will need to present a lot of paperwork, for example: drivers license, proof of citizenship, title of the car, and registration. If you don’t have it, you won’t be able to get the permit.

– Insurance Requirements:Through your personal insurance might cover you in every country your drive, Mexican authorities do not accept insurance that are not from Mexico. You have to buy a specific car insurance before crossing the border, or you will not be insured in case of an accident. Fox Rent A Car will only allow you to take your car to Mexico, if you buy the Fox insurance for Mexico.

Things to know when driving in Mexico.

– Driving in Mexico can be risky: Be very careful when driving in Mexico, if you are only used to American roads, as traffic can be wild and seem chaotic. Although it may seem that no one is following rules, they do exist. The roads are not always well maintained. You may see pot holes in the roads, as well as rocks. Be sure to respect the speed limit and keep your eyes open. Sometimes in rural areas the fencing system is inefficient allowing animals to meander into traffic. Be aware of cattle on the road. Toll roads are recommended as they are often well maintained. Be prepared for check points, they happen more often you might expect.

– There are times to avoid at the Border to drive in Mexico: There are a lot of people who live in Mexico and commute to the United States for work. So starting at 5 AM in the morning the border gets very busy, until about 8 AM. Then again at night, when everyone gets off work. Just like regular commuter traffic, expect the border to Mexico to be busy at the same time. Sometimes it depends on which border crossing you choose. Weekends are always incredibly busy.

Diving to Mexico requires preparation. Make sure you are doing everything required from you to do before getting behind the wheel in a foreign country, especially if you do not speak the language. Study your itinerary well before leaving and follow the driving rules, it will keep you safe and out of trouble.

Tips about Driving in the USA

When you are planning a trip in the USA, you will most likely need to rent a car. It is a large country with so much to see, that first of all, you don’t want to waste your visit staying just at one place and second, even if you do, walking is not always possible. When you visit another country, it is good to be informed on what the driving practices are and important things to know before you get behind the wheel. Here are some useful tips about driving in the USA to help you be prepared for this road adventure!

Tip about driving in the USA #1: Rental info.

When you visit the USA and plan to rent a car, they are a few things you should know. First, it is true that for most states the legal driving age is 16 years old. However, most rental companies, do not allow drivers under 21 to rent a car. Second, not every country’s drivers license are accepted in the USA, and certain rental companies do not accept foreign drivers licenses at all. So make sure you get your International Driver License before leaving for your trip. In most countries you can apply for them at the city or town hall, but you can also ask in any travel agency and they will know where you can get the international drivers license. Finally, you might want to check if your driver’s insurance covers you abroad, otherwise you will need to buy a special insurance through your insurance, or through the rental company. Even if you are a good driver, remember that driving in the USA can be quite different from driving at home, so it is better to be safe than sorry, and be insured. Most states require you to have car insurance anyways and you probably do not want to get in trouble for driving without proper insurance in a foreign country during your vacation, right? Also, when you reserve your car ask the rental what their policy is. Some might not accept foreign insurance, or might require you to show proof of insurance.

Tip about driving in the USA #2: Freeway vs Highway

Definition: A Highway is defined as the main large road that usually links cities to one another. The speed limit is 55 mph, and you can run into stop signs and lights. On the Freeway, on the other hand, you have no intersections nor stops. It’s a road, (or highway) for high-speed traffic – usually limited up to 75 mph. Freeway is a term mostly used on the West coast though, while on the East cost they talk about Interstate Highway. Freeways have more lanes, and you can also find  the car-pool lanes on them. Now, if you never driven in the USA before, this is something to be aware of. Car-pool lanes are reserved to cars who have 2 or more people in them. You can only enter or exit them when the yellow lines are interrupted. Any car entering or exiting the lane by crossing the double line can be fined, as well as when you are alone in the car.

Numbers: When you start driving and looking for directions, you will realize that highways and freeways have numbers. The numbering system is very thought through and can facilitate your driving experience in the USA. Freeways with even numbers go from east to west. The lower numbers are in the South and increase as you move toward the North. For example if you take the 8 E (8 East) you are taking the Interstate 8 driving toward east in south California. Odd numbers are for freeways going South to North and the numbers increase as you go from the West coast to the East Coast ( e.g : I-5 in California, I – 95 in Florida). On maps when you read 3 digits numbers indicating a road, it’s a highway. If it starts with an even number ( such as 405) it usually connects major freeways, when it start with an odd number ( as 705) it usually connect a city to a freeway.

Stops: When you are driving on the freeway, most exits take you to a city or town. If you are used to the freeway rest points and gas stations common in Europe, don’t wait for one. If you want to stop for gas, take a break or find a restaurant, watch for the signs that indicate what the next exit has to offer.

Tip about driving in the USA #3: In Town.

Street names: When you drive in the USA, it is also important to understand how the street system works. The streets are often alphabetically organized one way, and numbered the other crossing way. When you are looking for the street name , at a cross street, the sign with the name facing you, across the intersection, is the street name you will be crossing. When you look for address numbers, they are marked on the buildings or houses, and sometime, mostly in residential areas, you can also find them painted on the side of the sidewalk. If you ask for directions, most people will use the term block. For example they will tell you it’s about 2 block away, or turn right after the second block. Between the first intersection with the road you’re on, and the second one, you pass one block. So blocks are an area of buildings situated between streets in a city. Also keep in mind that in most downtown areas, you find a lot of one way streets. If the first street goes one way, the next one usually goes the other.

Parking: If you drive in the USA, you also need to know the rules about parking. Parking can be tricky. Familiarize yourself with the color codes painted on the side walks for parking zones: Red: don’t stop don’t park, not even the back of your car should be in the red; White: loading zone for passengers; Yellow: commercial loading zone; Blue: reserved for disabled persons; Green: short term parking. Don’t think you can get away with it, they will tow your car, and it will cost you a lot to get it back. Also, make sure you respect the time limit for your parking zone. Even if you “refill” your meter, you are not allowed to park in the same spot longer than indicated. They will mark your tires and write down your license plate, so rather look for another spot. Then once you are parked, make sure your tires are turned the right way. If you park on a hill facing down, your tires should be turn toward the side of the road, and if facing up hill, turn your front tires away from the curb. On a flat street, you should always make sure you parked all your wheels parallel to the curb. If you don’t follow those rules you can get a ticket. Also, make sure to read the signs on the street where you park. Street cleaning is organized on different days and times, and parking on one side of the street is forbidden on those days. You will receive a ticket or be towed if you do not respect this.

For some people, these rules seem over the top and may be a little harsh, but remember that you are in a foreign country and to stay out of trouble, you should follow those rules. Remember to not talk on the phone, fasten your seat belt and have the regulated car seats for your children! Have a safe drive.

Traveling with Kids

Traveling with Kids takes traveling to a whole new level and will be quite a different experience than traveling alone or with other adults. Taking your little ones requires a lot more preparation and planning, and also quite a bit of patience. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for traveling with kids (and stay sane!).

Travel with Kids Tip 1: Keep them safe

The most important point is of course the safety of your children.You know your kids best, and so you know what ideas they sometimes have that could hurt or harm themselves or others!  But when you are traveling with your kids, keep in mind, that they are in an unfamiliar surrounding  and even the most “responsible” child might not be able to assess a dangerous situation in this new setting. So is also important to make your kids aware of it and let them know how they can help you.

Seating: You should do, what you do at home as well and respect the basic rules of driving with children. Remember that no kid under 12 years old should be in the front seat. The back seat is always the best and safer option for them at any age anyways. For the youngest kids make sure to have a car seat, or a booster seat. Every states has different age or weight rules regarding car seats, so make sure to check before you plan your trip. You can travel with your own car seat, or you might be able to rent one. Fox Rent A Car offers the option to rent a car seat with your car rental for a fix daily fee. This might be the best option, especially when you are flying to your destination.

Driving Rules: Especially when you spend your vacation in another country, you might have to concentrate on the road more than usual. The typical multitasking that you do in your home country should be a big no no! Driving rules are different and also the way people drive. Let your kids know that they need to be a little more patient. The most important things they must remember are: keep your seat belt fasten, stay calm and not scream to not distract the driver, and keep your arms in the car.  You can give these “rules” a new twist and make it a game. If they follow and respect the rules, they will get a price or  a special treat!

Traveling with Kids Tip 2: What should you bring?

It is important to plan ahead. Makeing a list of what to bring is always helpful. It helps you remember to bring their favorite doll or teddy bear. Especially in different environments, your kids want to have something familiar with them. This will give them safety and also can keep them busy for a while. This brings me to my next point: One of the most important things is to find a way to keep your kids occupied along the trip, especially if you are driving for a long time. For the youngest kids bring coloring books, puzzle books, and writing material so that they can focus on something else than the road. You can also plan to bring travel board games. A great new invention are the portable DVD players! It assures you some quiet and relaxing driving time. You can bring Baby Einstein for the youngest or movies for your older kids. Remember to get enough batteries though! Fox Rent A Car has DVD players available for rent, ask about it when reserving your car. CD and MP3 players are also always a good thing to have. The endless fights over what everyone should listen to can be easily avoided with CD or MP3 players and some headphones. If your kids don’t have one yet, you should consider this for their birthday list.  When none of those work anymore it is time to be creative and play with them: play “I spy something …”, or make them guess car makes, or state plates…
You also need to plan what, where, and when you will  have snacks and meals. Make sure to pack their favorite drinks and snacks. Between games, or when they start getting antsy, a snack break is always welcome. Make sure you pack enough water, especially if you drive during the summer. It is important to keep them hydrated and remind them to drink. And drinks, and food in the car, this can also mean to pack some extra clothes. Liquids are easily spilled and you want to make sure your kids are not freezing or sweating.

Traveling with Kids Tip 3: Frequent Stops

When traveling with kids: drinks equals bathrooms stops. Don’t forget to plan an itinerary that allows frequent stops. You can’t really tell a kid to hold it, when they have to go, they have to go! So make sure you plan stops along the way and make them go, every time you stop. Also, it is good for them to run around a little after sitting for a while. So if you plan to stop for food, try to plan a picnic instead of going inside and sit at a table. They will enjoy the fresh air, and will be less reluctant to get back in the car for more driving! And its not just cheaper and healthier, but you can bring your own food and satisfy even the pickiest eater. When driving, be flexible. You know that when you have kids, all the planing often does not do any good. And what does not work at home usually does not work on vacation either. Be prepared for off-schedule activities. If you see something interesting or if they ask to stop at to have a closer look at a sight they saw advertised on a billboard, why not make the stop? Unless you have a very tight schedule, the best about traveling with kids is to enjoy family time… so why wouldn’t they get a say in what to do once in a while!

Traveling with Kids Tip 4: Cultural differences

Another important thing to remember is the cultural differences you might encounter while traveling with kids. Make sure to read about what  the norms are and the things you should avoid at your destination. If you are traveling in the USA for example, remember to always make your kids wear their clothes when in public. Or if you plan a day at the beach on your way, make sure to have their bathing suits and shorts ready (even for babies and toddlers).

We hope these Traveling with Kids Tips were helpful and Fox Rent A Car wishes you a great vacation with your children!

Driving Rules in the US

Stop signs are international… but before you get behind the wheel in the land of big cars and large roads, you should know all about driving rules in the US? Even though some traffic rules are the same as in other countries, here is a list of must-know rules you should be aware of before getting behind a wheel in the US.

Turning on a red light
In the United States, people are always in a hurry, so instead of wasting people’s time they got the great idea to not let people wait at the light when they don’t need to! So here is what you need to know: If you are turning right at a stop light, you can actually turn even tough the light is red. The red light in that case is like a stop sign. But be careful, you must make sure no one is coming from your left side nor in front of you turning left (for them), and of course don’t forget people crossing – they have the right of way!! Also you need to make sure it no sign forbids you to turn on red. The same is true for turning left from a one-way street into a one-way street.

Stop Signs in the US
If you come from Europe you are used to traffic circles…. well, they are not very common here in the US! So what are the traffic rules, when 3 or 4 roads cross? It is really simple. The first car that arrives goes first! You will ask then, ok what if we arrive at the same time? Then the car to your right has priority. You will be impressed how well educated American drivers are! But when you approach an intersection, remember to look for cars coming from the left as well!

Passing  on the Left Lane on the Freeway
Unfortunately for foreigners, not every state has the same rules when it comes to passing other cars on the freeway. Certain states allow you to pass cars on either side – left or right- to your convenience ( such as California). Other forbid passing on the right. As to the left lane, certain states do not allow slower traffic on the let lane and reserve it for passing. The  State “Keep Right” Laws link gives you a full description of which state allows what.

Emergency Vehicles
If you hear sirens and see light flashing, do you know what you should do? The traffic rule in the US is to yield to the right and let them pass, where ever you are. Traffic must stop to let them pass. Just stay out of their way. Every one will get back on the road and keep going once they are passed.

Phones
When you are stuck in traffic or on your way somewhere, it often seems the best time to make a call. Well not really. Most states have banned cell phone use in the car, unless a hands free system is used. But of course here again, they are not making it easy for you drivers, and kept it a federal law, so not all states have the same rules. Cell Phone Driving Laws gives you in detail per state the rules and regulation concerning this topic. Oh! By the way, this include text messaging as well!

School Buses

You probably know the famous yellow school buses from American movies. These school buses have special rights on the streets to ensure the safety of the children on board. When a school bus stops, it will flash red lights and extend a small stop sign! This means, you have to stop behind the bus and cannot pass. The same is true for oncoming traffic, unless the road is divided.

Okay, now you are all set to hit the road with your rental car in the US. Open you eyes for red lights non turning sign, don’t be in a hurry at the stop sign, and keep you ears open for sirens. And if you can wait for that so important phone calls remember someone might be passing that same car you’re passing from the right!
Have a safe drive.

PS: Certain countries offer you the possibility to get an international driver license. It might help you rent a car more easily and help you with insurance. Check with your town hall or Department of Motor Vehicles.

Advantages of Hybrid Cars

Car companies are offering and promoting more and more  hybrid cars…. so what is this all about anyway you ask yourself. Well it’s one of those great advantage of  technology and development that make your life easier and better! Let me tell you the advantages of driving a hybrid car.

Cut Fuel Costs
Imagine saving money while driving your car! This is the number 1 advantage to drive a hybrid. Driving a hybrid car can actually cut your fuel cost in half! A hybrid car has two engines: an electric and a regular gas fueled combustion engine. Your car therefore has two sources of power. Electric power is much cleaner than fuel power, so you are not only saving money, but also the environment!

Hybrid Tax Credit
You will say, okay saving money on gas is good, but is it really worth investing in a hybrid for this. And I will say wait!  There is more! More than just decreasing your gas expenses, the government is supporting the green cause by giving a Hybrid Tax Credits to hybrid owners… Find out more about Hybrid Tax Credit here. So now your hybrid can save you money two ways: lowering your gas and taxes expenses.

Go green
We are all aware now that our cars are an important factor that harms our environment. Thanks to its double engine, the hybrid creates less fumes, and therefore less pollution. Driving a hybrid will diminish the greenhouse effect through lower fuel consumption and reduce your carbon foot print. Driving a hybrid can give you a clean conscience about driving!e The electric engine even charges itself through breaking and the gas engine,  so you don’t even need to recharge it!

Investment
Finally it has been proven that hybrid cars are more efficient than conventional cars and have a much higher resell price. So it is a good investment on the short and longer run.

So why not drive a car that gives you economic advantages while also being eco-friendly and help decrease the oil consumption? Fox Rent A Car is conscious about saving the environment and supports clean technologies. We offer to all our customers a 5 % discount on all Hybrid car models. If  you are still hesitant to buy a Hybrid, take it on a test ride for a weekend and see for yourself if it is the right choice for you!

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10 Tips to save Gas

10 Tips to Save Gas

When I first got to California I could fill up my tank with $11. Today, this obvious history! I bet you are just like me wondering what to do to save money while improving you gas mileage. So what can you do? Follow these 10 tips to safe gas will help you get a better gas mileage while saving money.

Check your tires
Check your inflation! More than providing you safety, a well inflated tire can help you improve your gas mileage and reduce your overall miles per gallon consumption. It will gives your tires better grip since more of the tire surface will touch the road. Moreover , the right  pressure will make your tires to last longer and ensures a safe trip – even on slippery roads.

Regular maintenance
A car is a machine, it needs to be taken care of, maybe even more than a regular machine since most of us use it every day.You can maintain your car while saving money on gas and stay within a low budget. Oil changes are available for low costs. To increase your gas mileage it is important to keep track of your oil change; a good benchmark is to change your oil every 3000 miles. Also, check the air filter of your car. This is something you can easily do yourself and it will improve  the functioning of your car and also decrease your gas consumption.

A little breeze doesn’t hurt
Roll down your windows when the heat is tolerable. Save the Air Conditioning for the hottest days. But be aware, AC will actually be more fuel efficient while driving over 55pmh, since the windows at higher speed create a drag that decrease your gas mileage.

Save you breaks
Don’t drive faster than you need…. To stay out of the technical terms, just know that breaking can burn as much gas as accelerating. Plus getting back to your previous speed will  consume even more fuel. Respect the speed limit, keep the security distance to the car in front of you. It will allow you to anticipate better, break less and stop burning your gas with the constant the break/acceleration game.

Get gas on Wednesday
You should avoid filling up your tank during the weekend. It is true that gas prices usually go up then. Wednesday is recognized as the best price day!  Also, remember to fill up your tank no later than 3 days before holidays… prices always increase then as well. One more note on “good timing” to fill up your tank: Get gas in the mornings or evenings. It’s cooler and reduces evaporation and fumes.

Get off the freeway
Today the GPS gives you a great opportunity to find alternative roads, or even short cuts that can help you get from point A to point B without entering the freeway. Getting stuck in traffic is actually the biggest waste of gas, as you are burning your fuel without moving forward. Don’t be afraid to take small roads and highways that can save you gas. Getting of the freeway is also the more scenic option to get to your destination. See beautiful landscapes, little towns and drive on winding roads rather than spending your day in a huge traffic jam!

Think healthy
Instead of driving 2 minutes to the store, looking for parking, locking your car it might be faster and of course much healthier to just leave the car at home to run your errands. Walk or use your bike to get to places nearby. Leave you car at home sometimes and stay in your neighborhood. On parking lots get used to walking and stop moving your car from store to store… park in the middle! And if you feel like helping the environment as well, (which is good for your health too) take advantage of public transport once in a while! Especially in cities, it can often be the cheaper alternative as you also safe the money for parking!

Use the best gas grade for your car
Follow the instruction in your car manual to select the suggested gas grade for your car. The most expensive option doesn’t always mean it is the most fuel efficient choice for your car model. You can save a few cents here and there as well when you chose the right gas grade for your car.

Your trunk is not a storage space
The heavier the car is the more fuel it burns. You will have a better gas mileage if you keep your car as a transport tool and not as an extra storage space. So only leave the stuff in your car that you really need and put those beach chairs, extra clothes and water bottles at home unless you use them.

Park in the shade
The sun heats up your car and creates evaporation of  liquids – your gas as well! Find a spot in the shade, even if that means walking a bit more. Diminish the fume evaporation and help preserve the environment! And, come on! who really likes to enter a steaming hot car after being parked an hour in the sun? Shade will keep your car a bit cooler; you might not even need to turn on the AC…

Saving gas does not only mean saving money, but also the environment. Fox Rent A Car supports Green Driving and saving the environment. Fox offers a special 5 % off on all Hybrid car rentals. If you have more advice on how to save gas, let us know and we will add it to our list!

How to get gas in the US?

That might sounds like a silly question to any American driver, however, not ever country proceed the same way as to how to get gas into your car.

Pay first!
While you might be used to just park your car next to the gas pumps, open your gas tank and pour the gas until the pump reaches the amount you want to pay, and then sit in line to pay… the way Americans do it is a little different…They pay first!

You will tell me, but how do they know how much to pay? As a foreigner myself, this is what I thought too. So you can read the car manual and figure out how many gallons you car holds and then do some math to calculate how much it would cost you for x gallons. Or you can try to put in a minimum and see how long it will last and figure it out over time… prices keep changing anyways! And don’t worry if you pay too much, you can always go back to the cashier and get your change back. One fact to keep in mind as well is that most gas stations do not impose a certain direction of entering as the tank can be on either side of the vehicle. However, on most gas stations, the hose is long enough to reach the tank, even if your car faces the wrong way.

So step by step to get gas at a gas station in the US:
Park and turn off your car. Go to the cashier or the automatic credit card payment machine directly on the gas pump. You might be asked to pay an extra charge for paying with credit card over cash and most gas stations do not accept foreign credits cards at the pay machine of the gas pump. The easiest way is to go inside and pay the cashier either in cash or with your credit card. Once you are back to your car select the fuel your car needs (rental cars usually have a sticker on the tank cap, which one to use) by pressing the button with the gas selected. At some gas stations, you will have to lift the holder of the nozzle to start the pump. Then you can pump gas by holding the trigger until the pump stops automatically. If it ends up costing you less than you prepaid, go get your change, get in your car and leave.

Be aware!
New Jersey and Oregon on the other hand have banned self serving gas stations. For safety reasons, laws had been passed to assure that only trained persons could handle such a flammable liquid. Economic reasons are also mentioned; those states kept the gas pumpers to save jobs. And finally welfare reasons are suggested:  disable and elderly person needs the assistance. In those states, just park your car and wait to be served! However, a small tip is appropriate, as most of the time, they will also clean your windows and check your oil.

Now you are ready to get gas at an American gas station! Have a safe drive and enjoy your trip!

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Driving rules in the US