Turo — Car rental marketplace

Description

Turo is a peer-to-peer car rental marketplace that lets you skip traditional rental counters and rent directly from local car owners. Think of it as the Airbnb for cars where you can find everything from budget-friendly options to luxury vehicles and even classics. The app connects car owners looking to make extra money with travelers who need wheels for their journey. Founded in 2010 and formerly known as RelayRides, Turo now operates in over 7,500 cities across the US, Canada and the UK. With more than 14 million users and hundreds of thousands of vehicles listed, it offers way more variety than your typical rental company at often better prices.

Key Features

• Diverse vehicle selection: Turo offers everything from economy cars to exotic sports cars and vintage classics. Users can filter by make, model, price, features and even specific requirements like pet-friendly vehicles or cars with bike racks.
• Contactless pickup options: Many hosts offer remote unlocking through the app or lockboxes for keys. This feature lets you skip the rental counter lines and get your car without any face-to-face interaction.
• Insurance coverage included: Every trip comes with liability insurance and physical damage protection up to $750,000 through Liberty Mutual. Renters can choose between several protection plans based on their comfort level and budget.
• Host ratings and reviews: Each car owner has a profile with ratings and detailed reviews from previous renters. This transparency helps you choose reliable hosts and well-maintained vehicles for a better rental experience.

Tips for Using Turo

1. Book well in advance for special occasions or holiday weekends when demand is high. Popular cars and trusted hosts with great reviews tend to get reserved quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
2. Take detailed photos of the car before driving away to document any existing damage. This simple step protects both you and the host from disputes about scratches or dents that weren't your fault.
3. Communication is key with your host, so don't hesitate to ask questions before booking. Many hosts are flexible with pickup and return times if you discuss your needs in advance.
4. Check the mileage allowance carefully as some listings have daily limits. Going over the limit can result in additional charges, so plan your trip accordingly or look for listings with unlimited miles.

How to Download and Use Turo

1. Download the app by clicking on the Google Play Store button if using Android, or use the Apple Store button for iOS. The app is free to download and you'll need to create an account to start browsing available cars.
2. Set up your profile by verifying your identity with a valid driver's license and connecting a payment method. The verification process usually takes just a few minutes but can occasionally require up to 24 hours for approval, so it's best to do this before you need a car.
3. Search for available cars by entering your location, rental dates and times. You can filter results by price, car type, features or distance from your location, then book directly through the app and coordinate pickup details with the host.

Final Thoughts

After using Turo for several trips, I've found it to be a refreshing alternative to traditional car rentals with more personality and often better value. The app itself is intuitive and the booking process is straightforward, though availability can be limited in some smaller markets. While there's always some anxiety about renting someone's personal vehicle, the review system and insurance options help create peace of mind. The quality of cars and host responsiveness varies widely, so reading reviews carefully is essential. For travelers who want something beyond the generic rental experience or need a specific type of vehicle, Turo opens up possibilities that traditional rental companies simply don't offer.