Costa Rica is a fantastic place to hit the highways and back streets behind the wheel of your own rental car. Turn up the radio and enjoy the flexibility of exploring all the hidden gems scattered between each of its top travel destinations. Discover some (or all) of this place’s most outstanding cities:

• San Jose (population of 335,000)
• Limon (population of 63,100)
• Liberia (population of 45,400)
• Puntarenas (population of 35,700)

Here are our top tips on how to hit the road with some extra cash in your pocket:

• Compare as many different deals as possible (we make that chore child’s play!);
• Set an email Price Drop Alert for your next vacation destination. You never know what terrific bargains will whiz into your inbox;
• Research is the key to getting the best rental bargains in town, so be sure to take a look at both airport and non-airport pickup and drop-off outlets before you lock in your ride;
• If you have some elbow room in your schedule, modify your dates to find better prices on different days of the week;
• Nobody enjoys being whacked with a late fee. Avoid the hassle of having to pay for another day by making sure your pickup and drop-off times are around the same time;
• Some places reward you big time for prepaying — keep your eyes open for these great offers;
• Don’t let the deal you want slip through your grasp. Book as soon as possible and secure your ideal set of wheels.

Not only are minis the smallest car available for rent in Costa Rica, they’re also the most popular. Fuel-efficient and easy on the credit card, these fantastic little cars are ideal for nipping in and out of narrow lanes in the buzzing streets of San Jose and San Jose De La Montana. They’re also super easy to park!Don’t limit your adventures to the big cities. Costa Rica has some glorious scenery, such as sandy shores, extinct volcanos, and active volcanos. A ride like a convertible will help you travel around them in style. These rentals are perfect for those who’d like to appreciate the views with the top rolled down. Who doesn’t enjoy the feeling of the wind in their hair?

For some people, owning a prestige vehicle may be somewhat out of reach. But renting your dream ride is easier than you think! Imagine the thrill of cruising the open roads in a swish sports car, even if it’s just for a short while. Or perhaps all you need is a set of wheels to get you safely from point A to point B. Flashy or frugal? Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a rental car to suit your style in Costa Rica.

In most cases, your car rental company will charge the fined amount to your credit card. Alternatively, the company may provide your contact information to the relevant local authority so they can issue a fine directly to you.