Driving in the United States might feel a little different from driving in Britain, but don't worry. The main thing worth noting is that Americans drive on the right side of the road and the steering wheel is on the left of the vehicle. Also, distances are generally measured in miles, not kilometres. And don’t forget, turn right on red! It’s permitted at most intersections, unless otherwise signed.
Car Rental at Tuscaloosa Regional Airport
The Tuscaloosa Regional Airport is equipped with several car rental agencies ready to help start your Alabama adventure. Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis, amongst others, all have desks in the airport's main terminal, typically open to coincide with flight schedules.
- Hertz: Opens daily at 7.00 am and closes at 11.00 pm
- Enterprise: Working hours are usually from 7.30 am to 6.00 pm
- Avis: Open until 11.30 pm on weekdays
Choosing a Rental Car Class
Pick a car that suits the nature of your visit. If you are here for some family vacation, a minivan or SUV might be the most fitting choice. Business visitors may prefer a luxury or premium class vehicle.
Gassing up
A number of petrol stations are available within a short drive from the airport. These include Chevron and Shell, each of them within 3 miles of the airport. Please remember gasoline is sold by the gallon in the U.S.
Navigating the Local Area
After leaving the airport, you may want to explore the city. Tuscaloosa attractions include the Paul W. Bryant Museum, the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater and the Mercedes-Benz Visitor Center. A drive to downtown Tuscaloosa would take you about 20 minutes. When planning your journey, consider that the speed limit on most highways in Alabama is 70 mph, with urban areas dropping as low as 30 mph.
Currency
The currency used is the U.S. dollar ($). Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash can be useful for smaller purchases or tips. There are several currency exchange points in the city and ATMs at the airport.
Climate
Alabama enjoys a warm, subtropical climate. Summers can be very hot, so if you are renting a car during this season, air conditioning would be a wise choice!
Key Places Nearby
Expand your journey to some of the surrounding cities. Birmingham is the biggest city in Alabama and is just about an hour’s drive to the northeast. In the other direction, you can reach the Mississippi border in under an hour. If you fancy a trip to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s only a four hour trip south.
Enjoy the journey and make unforgettable memories!
