We are 4 Aussies planning to travel from San Francisco to Seattle next June and want to hire a car but have heard that car hire between states is not easy. Would like some advice.

It is generally not a problem. One-way rentals sometimes require you to pay a drop-off fee, but when we rented to drive one-way Seattle to SF, we did not.

You will also pay additional fee for extra drivers (no matter where you rent and return). Often spouse of renter is free, but any other drivers pay extra. Do not lie to car rental company about who is driving, since if they get into an accident you may not be covered.

When you see rental rates quoted, they will not include insurance. Most US renters are already covered by their own insurance for this, but it is likely that you will have to pay for insurance, which can almost double the cost you see quoted on-line.

Enjoy the trip - it is a great drive. Make sure you stop and see the redwood trees along the way.

In addition to insurance costs check out the differences between airport and downtown locations. Often they are different - with different taxes and fees or even different prices. Which is cheaper varies by city - so you need to really do your research.

You also pay extra daily insurance if any driver is under 25. You must declare and pay an additional fee for anyone who will drive the car, or else the insurance is void.

this shouldn't be hard. just look for places that don't charge under 25 yrs old fee if that is your case and one-way drop-off fees. you can always find companies that do not or promotional codes that waive them if you look around.

check www.carrentals.com

It is generally best to book a package deal in your own country. Insurance rates are much lower than booking in the US and can make a significant difference.