Travel
Zipcar

Zipcar

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Zipcar transforms urban mobility with app-driven car sharing—hourly or daily access to cars, vans and EVs across campuses and cities. Membership bundles insurance and fuel credits, making short trips, errands and last‑minute business needs seamless and surprisingly stylish.

Founded2000
Price$$
FocusOn‑demand car sharing
Service areaUnited States, Canada & United Kingdom

Why Zipcar

Top reasons members choose Zipcar

01On‑demand flexibilityBook by the hour or day through a polished app—ideal for errands, weekend trips or spontaneous work runs without owning a car.
02City and campus convenienceHundreds of reserved pickup locations in urban neighborhoods and university campuses make sourcing a vehicle quick and predictable.
03All‑inclusive simplicityMembership pricing typically includes insurance and fuel credits, removing hidden costs and making total trip pricing easier to manage.
01

Hourly and daily bookings

Zipcar’s core offering is short-term, pay-as-you-go vehicle rentals. Reserve a compact, sedan or SUV within minutes, unlock it with the app, and return it to its designated spot. Ideal for errands, client meetings or city escapes, the service removes ownership hassles while keeping control firmly in your hands.

compact hatchback parked
02

Electric and specialty vehicles

Many Zipcar markets include electric models and larger vans for moving or group trips. Availability varies by city, but when present these options let you choose greener or more capable vehicles for specific needs—business deliveries, weekend gear hauls, or low‑emission urban driving.

electric car charging

Car types

Hourly rentalsDaily reservationsElectric vehicles (EVs)SUVs & crossoversCargo vans & moving trucksSedans & compactsBusiness accountsCampus memberships

Our verdict

What we like

  • Flexible hourly and daily bookings for short trips
  • Pricing typically covers insurance and fuel credits
  • Large urban and campus network with reserved parking spots
  • Intuitive mobile app with contactless access

Worth knowing

  • Vehicle availability can be limited during peak times
  • Membership fee required for most plans
  • EV and van options depend on local infrastructure

FAQ

Do you ship vehicles?
No. Zipcar is a local car‑sharing service—members pick up and return vehicles at designated locations. Service availability depends on city and campus coverage.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
Cancellations and modifications are handled through the app or website. Refunds for unused reservations are subject to Zipcar’s terms and the timing of your cancellation; check the membership terms for specifics.
Are there discounts or corporate rates?
Yes. Zipcar offers business accounts, campus memberships and periodic local promotions. Students and corporate groups can access special pricing—check the site for current offers in your area.