Car Hire USA

Driving in the United States

This country is prime for a road trip, with enormous freeways snaking though each state. Hire a car in the United States and take to the road – driving here will be a different experience to back home, as cars use the right-hand side and all speed signs are marked in miles per hour. However, you’ll find similar rules apply regarding mobile phone usage, seat belts and driving under the influence.

The maximum speed on freeways varies by state, ranging from 55mph to 85 mph (88km/h to 136km/h), so it’s best to read up on the destination you’re visiting before picking up your hire car. It’s also useful to note that as well as freeways, there are interstate highways which form part of the high-speed road network.

The Interstate 95 winds its way down the east coast, connecting the Canadian border with Florida. Visit the iconic sights of Washington DC, discover the genteel charm of colonial Savannah, and fall in love with the pastel-hued architecture of Miami, all in one fell swoop.

Route 101, aka the Pacific Coast Highway, will elevate your American driving experience. Roll down the windows and feel the sea breeze on your face as you motor along this 2,500km stretch that hugs the rugged west coast, linking Washington with southern California. Nature comes into its own here, so get ready for achingly beautiful views of mountain vistas, mighty surfing spots and national parks galore.

Route 66 is one of the most famous roads in the US, taking travellers from Illinois to California. Take a snap of the iconic road sign before hopping into your hire car and journeying though the dusty plains, seeing the wonderful, weird and downright wacky attractions on offer.

A quick guide to the United States

Every state and city in the US captures the imagination in their own particular way. Uncover different layers of this star-spangled country’s history and culture with every destination you visit.

California and the best of the West Coast

California love is real – it’s easy to fall for this beautiful state. The food is sublime, the cities hip and varied, and the nature breathtaking.

Begin your adventure in Los Angeles and experience the glamour of Tinseltown, before working your way up to San Francisco. Driving across the Golden Gate Bridge is a must, as is tucking into oysters at Fisherman’s Wharf and cruising across the bay to eerie Alcatraz.

Head north through the wilderness of Oregon, passing ancient forest, before hitting Portland. This foodie hotspot boasts a thriving coffee culture and abundance of street food – both of which can be walked off in one of the many leafy parks.

Cross into Washington and experience the spellbinding Cascade Mountains along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. Marvel at the majestic peaks, thick rainforest and dramatic glaciers before soaking in the sights of Seattle.

New York and the East Coast

New York City is the East Coast’s brightest star and will captivate you with its infectious spirit. Work your way through the Big Apple’s top attractions, including Central Park, the Empire State Building and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, before seeking out some of its hidden gems.

Drive south to Washington DC to experience the country’s political powerhouse. At the National Mall you can tick off the Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian Institute and Washington Monument, before paying the gates of the White House a visit.

Change up the tempo by exploring Florida, where every type of traveller is accommodated. Young and old alike can’t fail to charmed by the magic of Walt Disney World, while science fans will get a kick out of a tour of the iconic Kennedy Space Center. If you’re here to relax, the idyllic, sandy islands of Florida Keys will hit the spot.

Heart of America

Leave the coast behind and discover the treasures that lie inland. In the north, Yellowstone National Park dazzles millions of tourists every year. Join them and explore the geysers, canyons, forests and mountains that form this mammoth natural wonderland.

If you’d prefer a city break, make a beeline for Chicago. The Windy City takes three things seriously – skyscrapers, sports and special local dishes. Make sure you sample the famous deep-pan pizza and catch a baseball game before you leave.

Soulful New Orleans is the perfect introduction to the Deep South. Bring your appetite as food forms an important part of the culture here, as does jazz. Spend a day feasting on Creole cuisine in the French Quarter and an evening toe-tapping along to live music on buzzing Frenchmen Street.

Over the border in Texas, change is happening. Austin is shrugging off its traditional country reputation and replacing it with one for world-class live music, colourful street art and lip-smacking street food. While in colonial San Antonio, Texan heritage remains rife. Visit the 18^th-century Alamo Mission for a glimpse into the past and learn about the important part it played in the state’s history.

Beyond the mainland

Kilometres of ocean may separate Hawaii and Alaska from the mainland, but both play an important role in the country, offering unique experiences to spirited adventurers.

Hawaii is pure magic – Mother Nature lent extra sparkle to this slice of paradise in the middle of the Pacific. Go snorkelling or surfing among the glimmering turquoise waters, scale smoking volcano craters or simply sink in the golden sands of palm-fringed beaches.

Alaska couldn’t be more different. Swap fire for ice in this land of glaciers and fjords. Spend your days hiking through peaceful national parks, spotting wildlife along the way – look out for the humpback whales of Glacier Bay, the brown bears of Katmai and the wolves of Denali.

Car hire in the United States helps you make the most of your trip to this incredibly diverse and endlessly fascinating country.