22.04.2024
Traditional car rental vs. peer-to-peer car-sharing
The choice between traditional car rental and peer-to-peer car rental platforms has become increasingly significant for modern travelers. In this blog post, we explore the contrasting worlds of industry giants such as Sixt and community-driven pioneers such as Turo or Getaround. Join us on a journey where we help you choose the best travel rental companion for your next adventure.
What is traditional car rental?
Traditional car rental is the most common and familiar way of renting a car, most people use it during longer trips or as a holiday rental. You book a car from a rental company such as Hertz and pick it up from their office or parking lot. You pay a fixed rate per day or week, plus additional fees for the distance you’ve driven, insurance, and other add-ons. Usually, the car has to be dropped off at the same location or a different branch (for a fee.)
The trusted choice
Established players like Sixt, Avis, and Free2move have built a reputation for reliability, consistency, and a large fleet of well-maintained vehicles. They have a global presence, which ensures that you can find their services in numerous locations worldwide. This reliability can be comforting for frequent travelers or those venturing into unfamiliar territories. These professional services often come with 24/7 customer support, in case of emergencies or issues. The strict adherence to industry standards and regulations enhances the overall rental experience at a professional car rental company.
What is peer-to-peer car rental?
On the other end of the spectrum, peer-to-peer car rental platforms like Getaround represent the sharing economy's disruptive approach to mobility. Other famous examples include Airbnb, one of the peer-to-peer pioneers in the hospitality industry. The process is simple: car owners list their vehicles, specifying availability and pricing. Once you've found the perfect vehicle, you can easily book it through the app. Keyless access streamlines the pick-up and drop-off process. Although this type of rental can also offer lower rates, it comes with its own set of challenges. Peer-to-peer rentals might not match the maintenance and cleanliness standards of traditional rental agencies. Vehicles may be poorly maintained and not meet safety standards, potentially leading to reliability issues or even accidents.
The power of community
The peer-to-peer rental model encourages collaboration and a sense of community by connecting car owners willing to share their vehicles with those in need of temporary transportation. This makes it more cost-effective than traditional rental, as it eliminates the overhead costs that come with maintaining a large fleet and physical infrastructure. It also fosters sustainability through the efficient use of existing resources, in this case, cars.
In the end, whether you opt for the reliability of an industry veteran like Sixt or the innovative approach of Turo or Getaround, both professional and peer-to-peer platforms aim to make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable. The choice is yours, choose the road that best suits your adventure.
Nicky Delphin
Sr. Digital Content Strategist
"Passionate about cats. And cars!"
While the cat’s away, Nicky writes about mobility, one post at a time.
