We are heading over to the states as part of a 7 week adventure and will be based in Minnileopolis to explore my partners original hometown for a couple of weeks - can anyone suggest an alternavite to a high priced rental car for a couple of weeks in Aug - Sept this year?

I've spoken about "driveaway" in the US in this forum before (that is, delivering a car to another city for someone else), but that's really only suitable for people driving long distances on a fairly relaxed schedule - not your situation at all, I suspect.

Contrary to what you may have heard, public transport does exist in the USA, but is not the most practical means of getting about (except in New York City).

Realistically, then, you need a car. Unless you've got a friend or relative in the area who's prepared to drive you around or lend you their car, then, yes, you're going to have to rent a car.

I suggest you use travel agents and the internet (before you leave home) to get the best possible deal on car rental.

Good luck.

Pete

I've been thinking the same thing - renting can be a rip off and public transport can be a nightmare and the idea of driving ourselves around america for nearly 2.5 months is more appealling. The only snag is that i can't find any advise on insurance. The guides mention car insurance but the aaa.com website is not really accommadating for us brits. Has anyone any ideas??

Hi bluetwo,

Have you tried the (British) Automobile Association? I believe they have some sort of affiliation with the AAA so may be able to help (or, at least, point you in the right direction). Their website is www.theaa.co.uk

Good luck!

Pete

Depending on where you're thinking of going..

Internal flights are pretty cheep if you're only planning on going to a few places cross country.

If you're planning on getting trains then public transport is totally fine. Including in New York - I would never recommend driving in NYC, they drive like nutters over there. For short journeys get a cab or the subway - I never had any problems.

Nothing beats the good old American Road Trip, but don't drive in the big cities, park outside of the city and get the train in. I think parking in New York & Chicago is about $25 an hour! (i'm really not exagerating here).

Hope this helps