Driving in the USA and Canada
All normal rental cars in the USA and Canada take unleaded petrol, which is universally available in all parts of the USA and Canada. The cheapest grade, Regular (87 Octane), is perfectly ok for use with all normal rental cars. Note that in the USA and Canada "Premium" petrol is the more expensive option.
On some cars the petrol filler cap may be hidden behind the rear number plate, which in that case will fold down. On some cars you may need to press a button hidden in the glove box in order to release the petrol filler cap flap.
Petrol pumps in the USA and Canada differ in some respects from those in the UK. You firstly need to check for the cheapest grade of unleaded, since often there are several types available. In larger towns you sometimes have to pay before filling up. You always need to switch on the pump after removing the hose, either by pulling up or turning a lever, or by pressing a "Start" button on an electronic panel on the pump, in which case you usually also have to first press a button to select a method of payment (for example, "Pay Inside").
Unlike all other prices in shops, restaurants, motels, etc., prices marked on petrol pumps in both the USA and Canada include sales tax. You may occasionally get a small rebate for paying in cash.
Most gas stations in the USA and Canada will accept credit cards and, provided the amount of change is reasonable, travellers cheques.
Petrol is sold by the US Gallon in America and by the litre in Canada.
US Petrol (Gas) Prices
Arizona: Phoenix: 95c
California: Santa Barbara: 98c
Colorado: Denver: 92c
Georgia: Atlanta: 78c
Georgia: Cobb County (north Atlanta): 77c
Massachusetts: 90c
Michigan: Detroit: 99c
Missouri: 88c
New Jersey: 87c
North Carolina: 88c
Oregon: 98c
Canadian Petrol (Gas) Prices
Petrol prices are rather higher in Canada than in the USA, even allowing for the difference rate of exchange between the two countries' currencies. Because of the difference in the exchange rates and because petrol is sold by the US gallon in the USA and by the litre in Canada, comparisons of the prices in the two countries involve some calculations.
Places & useful connections
Before you set out
Confirm current access, opening arrangements, reservations and the suitability of your planned roads and walks. Photographs may show earlier conditions.