My wife and I are thinking about renting a car from Dollar at the airport when we arrive but we've only rented a car once in our lives about 25 years ago. We are staying at Sams Town so we're thinking it would come in handy. Is it better to go with the pre pay for gasoline or fill it up on the way back to the airport. They want to charge $2.19 per gallon. Also any suggestions of places within 30 or so miles from Sams Town to visit. Thanks, Mike

This is really a "no brainer". Why pay the rental company $2.19 per gallon when you can probably buy gas at the local station for at least $.25 to $.40 less per gallon. Fill up the tank on the way back to the airport.

Can't help you with things to do around Sams Town as I have no idea where that is. Try re-posting that part of your question with a different title such as "Things to see and do around Sams Town, NAME OF STATE".

I agree that a car would come in handy if you're staying at Sam's Town, since it's off the strip. I always fill the tank myself when renting a car since it usually costs more for them to fill it.

I used to go to Sam's Town quite a bit since my in-laws lived about five minutes away, but I don't recall anything of particular interest within 30 minutes...other than the strip, of course. You could always take a drive to Hoover Dam for something different.

Also, keep in mind when visiting the strip, it's easiest to valet park at any hotel/casino and just walk around the area. Valet is free of charge, but it's always nice to tip them.

Have a great trip!

Rental rates are usually pretty low in LV, making them a good choice, but only if you have insurance coverage (check to see if your home auto policy covers you in a rental car).

Beware of the current line that counter agents are using "you probably don't need all our insurance coverages, right? You're set with just the basic?"
The answer is NO, you don't want the BASIC either if you are already covered.

As far as the gas, they usually require that you buy a FULL TANK at their price, so it's not a good deal since nobody returns a car completely empty.

Take a drive out to Lake Las Vegas, it's easy from Sam's, just ask at the Bell Desk for directions. 3 hotels that are nice to visit, a shopping area, nice restaurants and good video poker (check out casinomontelago.com)

Mt. Charleston is another lovely place to visit, and it's not too far of a drive from what I remember. There is a great ski lodge type of restaurant up there with very nice views over the mountain.