Zipcar how does it work

That sounds like a lot, but many markets are suburbs of major metro areas. Zipcar lists 54 cities served in California, but that represents only about 10 different metro areas. Five of the seven cities listed in Illinois are part of the greater Chicago area. Zipcar is now operational on hundreds of college campuses in the U.

With a low minimum renter age 18 years , Zipcar is a solid choice for students who need to an off-campus errand or take a daytrip. While a few small, rural towns are served by Zipcar such as Suwanee, Tenn. While Zipcar has a presence at some airports now thanks to its purchase several years ago by Avis Budget Group , most Zipcars live in dedicated spots on city streets as well as in parking lots and garages scattered around town.

But staying in San Francisco? Zipcar might work out for you. Planning on a road trip? Careful—Zipcar caps mileage, and the fees are a hefty 55 cents per mile if you go over. The Zipcar reservation process is definitely faster and easier than booking with a traditional rental company.

For some students, Zipcar could prove to be a lot cheaper than owning a vehicle. If you end up paying for a one-day road trip once per month, and three or four two-hour trips, Zipcar is a good frugal option. However, people who will use Zipcar rentals more than twice per week more than about 30 hours per month , the model will cost more than owning a car or using ride-sharing.

Unfortunately, the convenience of renting from Zipcar could turn a grocery trip once per week into an everyday habit. If you decide to opt into Zipcar, be sure that you account for it in your budget. You can learn more about him on the About Page , or on his personal site RobertFarrington. He regularly writes about investing, student loan debt, and general personal finance topics geared towards anyone wanting to earn more, get out of debt, and start building wealth for the future.

He is also a regular contributor to Forbes. Other Options. Get Out Of Debt. How To Start. Extra Income. Build Wealth. Credit Tools. Quick Summary. In order to access a Zipcar, you need to join the ride share service. You can join Zipcar by applying online on the Zipcar website. You'll receive your Zipcard in the mail three to seven days later. Hang on to your Zipcard. If you need to access your Zipcard immediately, you can pick one up at your local Zipcar office.

Both Zipcar's app and website work the same for international users. Try the day trial. If you do not cancel your membership within 30 days, the coupon will be voided. Part 2. Book your reservation.

Zipcar reservations can be made either online at Zipcar. You can also call Zipcar directly and make a reservation through a booking agent. Zipcars can be reserved for as little as 30 minutes or as long as seven days. Zipcars can only be booked for one-way trips in Boston, LA and Denver.

You cannot book a one-way trip internationally. Estimate your mileage. When booking a Zipcar, you are guaranteed miles per trip. If you live in Austin or San Diego, you can pay your mileage as you go. If you plan to use your Zipcar to drive into a different country, call Zipcar first to make sure that country is covered by Zipcar's insurance policy. Cancel your reservation. If you no longer need a Zipcar, you can cancel or shorten your reservation, provided you do so up to 3 hours before your reservation is due to start.

Part 3. Locate the Zipcar. When it is time for your reservation, go to this address and find the Zipcar that matches the make and model that is listed on your reservation.

If you see any damage larger than the size of your Zipcard, call the hotline to report it. Make sure to check the inside as well. If your Zipcar is damaged or dirty inside, call the hotline number which is listed on your Zipcard. Unlock the Zipcar. To unlock the Zipcar, hold your Zipcard against the card reader, which is located in the windshield.

Hold the card in front of the reader for a few seconds and the car will unlock. If you have trouble unlocking your Zipcar, call the Zipcar hotline. Find the car keys. The car keys for the Zipcar are usually inside the car, attached to the steering wheel.

The keys should remain inside the car for the duration of your reservation. In order to start these cars, step on the brake, then press the start button. In some countries, you can find the key by looking in the glove compartment.