In your case, you do NOT technically have to bring a CFI along. You are perfectly legal to go rent a 172 and go get current yourself (this is probably not the smartest decision, although it is legal). Most FBOs will require that a CFI accompany you, however, on your checkout flight(s).
To carry passengers, you need to perform 3 takeoffs and landings within the previous 90 days in ASEL (make and model does not matter; you could do them in a warrior and it would count for a 172). The landings have to be full stop only if you wish to carry passengers at night, and then they must be made from within 1 hour after sunset to 1 hour before sunrise. Have fun!