Out of town and need a car? Instead of using a car rental agency, consider car sharing — a way for drivers who need a car to connect with car owners who are looking to make money by renting theirs out. Car sharing is growing in popularity, as it offers a lot of benefits over renting.
Top 5 car sharing benefits
1. No need to plan in advance
Car rental agencies are notorious for increasing their prices closer to your travel date. Car sharing is different, with affordable daily rates whenever you book even on the day of travel.
2. Minimal gate keeping
Car rental companies can have a lot of requirements for renters and may even treat renters differently based on age or payment method. Car sharing companies like Avail have fewer restrictions: All Avail drivers just need to be 21 or older and have a valid U.S. driver’s license (probationary and provisional licenses are not accepted), a clean driving record and a valid credit card to book a reservation (debit cards are not accepted).
3. No lines
With a car sharing service, you use the website or a mobile app to check available cars, choose the one you want and make your payment. When you go to pick it up, there’s no need to stand in line at a car rental counter — simply grab your keys from our self-service key box and get on your way fast.
4. Honest pricing
A price quote from a rental agency may not include fees and extra charges, some of which are easy to miss in all the fine print. Avail doesn’t charge extra for second drivers, drivers under 25 years old or to modify your booking.
5. Get the car you need
The right car can make a huge difference in your travel experience. With car rental companies, there’s a real chance that someone may drive off in your preferred vehicle before your plane lands. With car sharing, what you book is what you’ll get.
How does car sharing work?
Every car sharing service works a little differently, but the basic concept is the same: car sharing services list cars available for rent, check driving records, verify driver’s licenses and collect payments. Borrowers get reliable, affordable cars whenever they need one, and owners earn money for sharing their vehicles.
How to know if car sharing is the right option for you
When considering car sharing vs. car rental, here are a few questions to think about:
1. Is my travel date coming up soon?
If you don’t already have a car reservation, you may be surprised when you check for rates. A car sharing service may be able to save you hundreds of dollars on a last-minute reservation.
2. Am I under 25 years old?
Many rental companies set driver age restrictions. Some won’t rent to you at all, while others may make you pay an extra daily fee for renting with them. Many car sharing services don’t discriminate against younger drivers. At Avail, we rent to drivers who are 21+ years old.
3. What time do I want to pick up my vehicle?
Car renters often lament that city car rental counters open too late or close too early, limiting the flexibility of their plans. Even worse, some rental companies may have no cars available at the lot even though you have a reservation. With car sharing, you’re matched with an owner and a car. The car is ready when you are.
4. Do I have car insurance?
While car insurance policies often cover policyholders when they drive rental cars, many people don’t own a car and don’t have insurance coverage. If you fall into this category, you might have to purchase an expensive policy from a traditional car rental company. Car sharing services may be able to provide a more affordable insurance option.
Learn more about Avail car sharing
The advantages of car sharing offer the best of both worlds to its borrowers, including convenient pick-up locations, flexible scheduling and no young driver fees. We offer affordable pricing, Allstate insurance coverage options and 24/7 roadside assistance for added peace of mind when you hit the road.
