Rent a car with GPS to maximize sightseeing time

Reader Linda Popke of Batavia, Illinois, writes in with today’s tip: “For absolute freedom when traveling in Europe, or any other place for that matter, rent a car with a global positioning system (GPS) and the world is your oyster!

“Last year, we rented a car at the Munich airport and were entitled to an upgrade, according to Avis. We were given a car with GPS. What a bonanza! We could wander to our heart’s desire and were always assured that we would be directed back to our hotel or starting point. Our pre-booked hotel in Nuremburg was on an obscure ‘half’ street that would have been very difficult to find, but the GPS guided us directly to its door. Further, traffic diversions were announced on the system and an alternate route was displayed.”

If you’re heading to an unfamiliar destination, particularly one where English isn’t spoken, getting GPS in your rental car may be a good investment. You can navigate with ease, making the most of your limited vacation time and maximizing sightseeing. Shelling out a few extra bucks for the system may pay for itself through the time-saving benefits of not getting lost and avoiding other roadside hassles.

And perhaps the best endorsement: “After our delightful experience with the GPS, we purchased one for use in our own car,” adds Popke. “Although we are experienced independent European travelers, we will be sure to have a rental car with GPS in the future.”

Have a great travel tip you’d like to share? Send your insider travel strategies to editor@smartertravel.com.