The Best Car Rental App: 11 Great Options

Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip, need an economy-sized vehicle for an upcoming business meeting, or just need to get around for a few days in a different city, the best car rental apps can help.

In this article, we’ll take a look at 11 of the best car rental app options available in 2023 that will make sure your travels go smoothly and you arrive at your destination safely. Let’s get started!

What is the Best Car Rental App?

Turo is a leading car rental app in 2023, providing services in 56 countries and over 5,000 cities. With a wide selection of car models, easy communication with hosts, and the option to earn money by renting your own car, Turo stands out in the market. Renters benefit from affordable options, insurance savings, under-25 rental options, and a seamless pick-up/drop-off process. To get started, download the Turo app for Android and iOS.

Our Methodology: The Best Car Rental Apps

In compiling our recommendations for top car rental apps suitable for small business needs, we’ve carefully assessed various factors. Each criterion is rated on a scale from 10 (highest importance) to 1 (lowest importance), ensuring that our picks are aligned with the practical and financial considerations of small businesses.

Range of Vehicle Options: Importance 10/10

• Diversity in types of vehicles available (cars, vans, trucks).
• Availability of vehicles suitable for different business needs.
• Options for both short-term and long-term rentals.

Pricing and Value: Importance 9/10

• Competitive rental rates.
• Transparency in pricing with no hidden fees.
• Value for money in terms of vehicle quality and service.

User Interface and Experience: Importance 8/10

• Ease of navigation within the app.
• Clarity and simplicity in the booking process.
• Quality of the user experience from search to booking confirmation.

Flexibility in Booking and Cancellation: Importance 8/10

• Options for last-minute bookings and changes.
• Fair and transparent cancellation policies.
• Accommodation for extending or shortening rental periods.

Customer Support: Importance 7/10

• Availability of customer service for assistance.
• Efficiency in resolving issues and answering queries.
• Support available through multiple channels (phone, email, chat).

Insurance and Safety Features: Importance 7/10

• Options for insurance coverage tailored to business needs.
• Transparency about safety features of the rental vehicles.
• Procedures for handling accidents or vehicle issues.

Loyalty Programs and Rewards: Importance 6/10

• Availability of rewards or loyalty programs for frequent users.
• Benefits that are relevant to business users.
• Ease of earning and redeeming rewards.

Availability and Coverage: Importance 6/10

• Geographic coverage of the service.
• Availability of cars in various locations, including urban and rural areas.
• International rental options for businesses with global needs.

Recognizing the components that define the leaders in the car rental app market is fundamental. As entrepreneurs, aligning with platforms that embody these essential traits presents a trajectory poised for success, reflecting customer preferences and modern-day demands.

The 11 Best Car Rental Apps to Consider

With so many options out there it can be overwhelming to find the right car rental app. Here’s a guide to the 11 best car rental apps that you should consider. Start exploring now and start your journey with confidence.

1. Getaround App

Getaround revolutionizes transportation with its innovative car-sharing platform. Through its website, drivers seeking the perfect vehicle can easily locate and reserve vehicles from private car owners who are willing to share their rides for a fee. As of 2019, Getaround had garnered a substantial following, boasting 5 million users and a fleet of 20,000 shared cars globally.

Key Features:

• Quick and easy signup process
• Verification speeds up access to car browsing
• Choose from a large range of cars, trucks, convertibles, or vans, which you can rent for hours or days
• Getaround Connect® technology helps locate and unlock cars via phone

Pros:

• Quick and simple
• Positive impact on the environment
• Safe, with insurance and driving record checks included

Cons:

• Can be more costly than competitors
• Higher chance of user and owner dissatisfaction
• Limited locations available

Download the Getaround app for Android and iOS.

2. Turo

Turo lets you skip the rental car counter with the world’s largest peer-to-peer car-sharing platform. With Turo, you can even start your own car-sharing business. Turo takes pride in its commitment to sustainability, offsetting 100% of its estimated global carbon emissions. This means that as you utilize their platform to grow your scalable car-sharing business or fulfill your travel aspirations, you can do so with peace of mind knowing that Turo has taken responsibility for its impact on the environment.

Key Features:

• Turo offers car rental services in 56 countries and over 5,000 cities
• Filter through delivery options and car features
• Choose from 800+ car models
• Easily communicate with the host through the app
• Earn money as a car owner by sharing your car on Turo

Pros:

• Affordable car rental options
• Insurance cost savings
• Under 25 rental options
• Smooth pick-up/drop-off process
• Connect with local renters
• Helpful rental reviews

Cons:

• Limited one-way rental options
• Possibility of pick-up/drop-off inconvenience

Download the Turo app for Android and iOS.

3. Zipcar

Zipcar is available in the US, UK, Canada, Costa Rica, Iceland, Turkey, and Taiwan. Find the perfect car using their app, which will give you access to 3,000+ cars and vans throughout the globe.

Key Features:

• Hourly or daily Zipcar reservation
• Wide range of vehicle options (sedans, hybrids, vans, etc.)
• Sort cars based on availability, make, and model
• View future reservations
• Get directions to your Zipcar
• Locate your reserved Zipcar by honking its horn

Pros:

• Wide range of affordable car options
• Cars are available 24/7 with constant access
• Insurance coverage included in the rental fee
• Toll passes and gas cards are provided in the car
• No need to use your personal credit card for gas

Cons:

• Risk of unpleasant odors (e.g. smoke, body odor)
• No guarantee of compliance with cleaning rules
• Need to fill up the car before returning, with no guarantee of the previous driver doing so
• Additional fees can accumulate with poor mileage tracking
• Long road trips may be better served by traditional car rental companies with unlimited daily rates

Download the Zipcar app for Android and iOS.

4. carSHAiR

carSHAIR created a car-sharing platform that goes beyond just driving and ownership. The goal was to empower car owners, promote financial literacy, and give back to the community. They also donate a portion of their profits to charity.

Key Features:

• Get access to a vehicle when and where you need it
• Use your parked car to earn money through car sharing with carSHAiR
• carSHAiR simplifies the process of turning your car into a source of passive income
• As a carSHAiR member, you have access to a community of verified members and secure authentication
• carSHAiR markets your car for you, making it easier for you to earn passive income
• Get help and support whenever you need it with carSHAiR’s 24/7 live concierge support

Pros:

• User-friendly app
• Accessible for non-tech savvy individuals
• Exceptional customer support

Cons:

• Challenging photo upload process
• 5 business days to receive payment for a completed trip
• Long processing time for reimbursement requests
• Only available in Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, Dallas, and Atlanta

Download the carSHAiR app for Android and iOS.

5. Lyft Rentals

Lyft Rentals simplifies car rental with no paperwork or counter wait. Rent a car for any purpose, be it a weekend trip, business travel, or errands, with the flexibility offered by Lyft Rentals.

Key Features:

• Discount for multi-day trips and new users
• Free car upgrades
• Automatic local gas rate charging without added fees
• All within the Lyft app

Pros:

• Easy-to-use app for both Android and iOS users
• Variety of vehicle options from private owners and Sixt partnership
• Free Lyft credit to the pickup location
• Free car accessories like car seats and ski racks
• Unlimited mileage

Cons:

• Limited to 16 states
• $10 Lyft credit may not fully cover transportation to the rental lot
• Not user-friendly for non-tech people

Download the Lyft riders app for Android and iOS.

6. Uber Rent

Find the perfect car for any occasion with Uber’s rental service, powered by its partners. Choose from well-known brands, and enjoy flexible scheduling and add-ons, all at great prices, through the Uber app.

Key Features:

• Flexible rental duration from 1 to 12 hours
• Add or remove stops on the go, up to 5 stops at a time
• Convenient, stress-free transportation with no parking or traffic worries
• Book on the Uber app for short-term car rental anytime

Pros:

• The Uber car rental option offers a cost-effective solution for those who can’t afford car ownership
• The rental partners handle all maintenance and repair needs, ensuring you a hassle-free experience. If your car breaks down, they’ll provide a replacement
• Choose rental duration to fit your needs and rent when needed, even if you already own a car
• Enjoy driving newer, well-maintained cars with the Uber rental program, avoiding the worries of older vehicle issues

Cons:

• Careful reading is required to avoid extra insurance or mileage charges from rental partners
• Access to rides may be scarce in rural areas, small towns, or some cities

Download the Uber app for Android and iOS.

7. HyreCar

Rent a car for rideshare, delivery, and more with HyreCar. Drive as needed and earn on your terms with rentals for Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, and others. Choose from daily, weekly, or monthly options.

Key Features:

• HyreCar is a top peer-to-peer car-sharing platform for gig workers
• Book a suitable car from local owners for your rideshare or delivery work
• Helps find new ride options during car repairs or to save personal car miles
• Local car owners can list their vehicles and become car-sharing entrepreneurs

Pros:

• Ideal for both new and experienced gig workers
• Gig workers can achieve financial freedom with HyreCar
• Tons of cars to choose from

Cons:

• Can be an expensive long-term solution
• All the cars have daily mileage limits set by owners, typically ranging from 150-300 miles
• Car pickup/drop-off must be coordinated with the individual owner

Download the HyreCar app for Android and iOS.

8. Enterprise

Enterprise Rent-A-Car is a proud American company founded on principles of honesty, integrity, and community service. Today, it’s the largest car rental business with over 8,000 global locations, offering car rental, sharing, sales, and more.

Key Features:

• Free travel planner app for the US, Canada, Europe, and Latin America
• Award-winning customer service
• Vehicle options from economy to luxury car rental
• Industry-leading cleanliness and sanitization of every rental car

Pros:

• Enterprise offers low rates for short-term car rentals
• Over 8,000 locations worldwide with free pickup from hotel/home (not airport)
• No hidden fees and a loyalty reward program, Enterprise Plus, is available
• Points earned for money spent on rentals with expedited in-store service
• Additional 10% after 6 rentals, free car upgrades for 12 and 24 rentals

Cons:

• A young driver fee of $25 may apply
• Long-term rentals may have better deals elsewhere
• Additional driver fee of $15 per day, except for spouse/domestic partner

Download the Enterprise app for Android and iOS.

9. Budget

Plan your trip with Budget Car Rental for savings on car rentals, with top deals, rates, and accessories. Budget, founded in 1958 in LA by Morris Mirkin, is a well-respected global car rental company known for its excellence and value.

Key Features:

• Book, change, or cancel car rentals 24/7
• Locate nearby Budget car rental locations with addresses and operating hours
• Get directions to your Budget rental location
• Fastbreak members have a single hub for all rentals
• Get on-road support with Roadside Assistance

Pros:

• Streamlined process, no complicated steps
• Wide range of vehicle options and customization
• Easy profile and reservation modification

Cons:

• The app may have occasional difficulties in determining location, but restarting the app usually resolves the issue

Download the Budget app for Android and iOS.

10. Alamo

Alamo offers low car rental rates at popular destinations worldwide, with a fleet of over 150,000 cars serving 15 million travelers annually. It is the third-largest car rental company in the US.

Key Features:

• Find rental locations and reserve a car using filters
• View all your rentals in one place
• Prepare for pickup with Accelerated Check-In
• Get 24/7 support and help with FAQs

Pros:

• Simple reservation process
• Available discounts
• Convenient online check-in
• Members who are part of the rewards program receive a 5% discount

Cons:

• Fees for drivers under 25
• Credit card requirement
• A limited number of locations, with the majority being located at airports

Download the Alamo app for Android and iOS.

11. Hertz

Hertz offers diverse car rental options and convenient locations worldwide and prioritizes customer service for all types of trips. With over 10,000 airport and neighborhood locations across 145 countries, Hertz provides quick rental access that also provides car rental franchise opportunities.

Key Features:

• One-touch log-in feature
• Easy navigation with menus and features tailored for mobile use
• Save time by using previous searches to book your next car rental quickly
• Find Hertz locations worldwide with information on hours of operation, contact details, and directions
• Get special deals and content through Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® membership

Pros:

• Free upgrades, no extra driver fees, and more with the Hertz rewards program
• AAA members get special discounts
• Free pick-up and drop-off service, except at airports
• Hertz guarantees the best rate with an extra 10% off if you find a lower rate elsewhere

Cons:

• Non-Gold Plus members pay an additional daily fee for each additional driver
• Higher rates for shorter rentals compared to competitors
• Reports of overcharging for gas and extras, especially in foreign locations

Download the Hertz app for Android and iOS.

How Car Rental Apps Work

Car rental apps have transformed the traditional process of renting a vehicle, making it more accessible and user-friendly. These digital platforms offer a seamless way to book a car from anywhere at any time.

The Convenience of Car Rental Apps

Car rental apps simplify the rental process significantly. Users can browse a wide selection of vehicles, compare prices, and book a car suitable for their needs, all from their smartphone. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently or need a car at short notice.

Key Features of Car Rental Apps

The best car rental apps provide a range of features to enhance user experience. This includes a user-friendly interface, a variety of vehicle options, flexible booking and cancellation policies, and often, in-app customer support. They also typically offer features like GPS navigation and car type preferences, catering to a broad spectrum of user needs.

Advantages of Using Car Rental Apps

Car rental apps offer several benefits over traditional car rental services. They provide a more streamlined, efficient, and often more cost-effective way to rent a vehicle.

Flexibility and Accessibility

One of the key advantages of car rental apps is their flexibility. Users can book a car at any time and often have the option to pick up and drop off the vehicle at different locations. This is particularly useful for those who are traveling or need a car for one-way trips.

Cost-Effectiveness

Many car rental apps offer competitive pricing and transparent fees. Users can easily compare prices across a range of options to find the best deal. Additionally, apps often have loyalty programs or offer discounts, making them a more economical choice compared to traditional rental services.

The Future of Car Rental Apps

As technology advances, car rental apps are expected to evolve, offering even more convenience and new features to users.

Technological Advancements

Future car rental apps may incorporate more advanced technologies like AI for personalized recommendations or VR for virtual tours of rental vehicles. The integration of electric and autonomous vehicles into these platforms is also anticipated, reflecting the shift towards more sustainable and advanced transportation options.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options

The trend towards sustainability is likely to shape the future of car rental apps. More apps are expected to offer eco-friendly vehicle options, such as hybrids or fully electric cars, catering to environmentally conscious consumers and contributing to reduced carbon emissions.

The Bottom Line

There are many different car rental and vehicle-related apps available in 2023, each with its own unique features and benefits. There are even parking apps to get you an open spot without wandering around all day long. Whatever your needs may be, there is sure to be an app that meets them. From budget-friendly options to luxury services, the best car rental apps provide a convenient experience for all travelers. With so many different options, it can be difficult to choose which one is right for you, but hopefully, these reviews will help you find the perfect fit.

What app lets you rent someone’s car?

Turo is a popular app that lets you rent someone’s car. It offers cars from hundreds of makes and models, giving you a wide variety of options to choose from. On Turo, you can filter your search by price, location, type of vehicle, amenities, and more. You can also read reviews from past renters to get an idea of what other people think about the vehicles before renting them. With its reasonable prices and convenient services, Turo is a great option for rental car needs.

Is there an app for car rentals like Airbnb?

Yes, there are several apps that offer car rental services much like Airbnb. For instance, Getaround allows users to rent a car from people in their local community.

You can view available vehicles and book your rental instantly without having to go through a rental agency or dealership. Plus, the prices are often cheaper than traditional car rentals due to reduced overhead costs for the owner of the vehicle.

What is the easiest place to get a rental car from?

The easiest place to get rental cars is often through an online platform. Apps such as Turo and Getaround provide convenient car rental services that are often cheaper than traditional agencies. With these apps, you can view available vehicles in your area and book a rental with just a few clicks. They’ll also have reviews from past renters so you can ensure you get a quality vehicle.

What car rental fees will I pay with a car rental service and app?

Renting a car through a car rental service or app can involve a number of potential fees, not all of which may be immediately apparent. Here are some of the common types of fees you may be charged:

1. Rental Fee: This is the base fee for the car rental itself, typically calculated on a daily or weekly basis. The cost can vary significantly depending on the type of car, the rental company, and the location.
2. Insurance Fee: Most rental companies offer a variety of insurance options for additional fees, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Liability Insurance, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), and more. While some of these may be optional, others might be mandatory depending on the company’s policy and the laws of the country or state where you are renting the car.
3. Fuel Fee: Depending on the rental company’s policy, you may be required to return the car with a full tank of gas or pay a refueling fee. Some companies may also offer a pre-paid fuel option where you pay for a full tank of gas upfront and can return the car with any level of fuel.
4. Equipment Rental Fee: If you need additional equipment such as a GPS, a child seat, ski racks, or other items, these will typically involve additional fees.
5. Underage Driver Fee: Many rental companies charge an additional fee for drivers under a certain age (usually 25). This fee can vary significantly from one company to another.
6. Additional Driver Fee: If more than one person will be driving the car, some companies charge an extra fee for each additional driver.
7. One-way Rental Fee: If you pick up the car in one location and drop it off in another, there may be a one-way rental fee.
8. Mileage Fee: Some rental agreements may include a limit on how many miles you can drive and charge extra for any miles driven over this limit.
9. Taxes and Surcharges: These can include sales taxes, airport surcharges, local and state taxes, and other fees. These can add a significant amount to the total cost of the rental.
10. Late Return Fee: If you return the car later than agreed, you may be charged an additional day’s rental or a late return fee.
11. Early Return Fee: Some companies may charge a fee if you return the car earlier than the agreed date.
12. Toll Charges: If you drive on toll roads, you will be responsible for the toll charges. Some rental companies offer electronic toll payment devices for an additional fee.

It’s worth noting that GPS usage in rental cars can indeed drain battery life quickly if used continuously, so plan accordingly to ensure your device has sufficient power for your journey.

Always carefully review the rental agreement and all fees before you finalize your car rental to avoid any surprises.

How much does a car rental service and app cost?

The cost of renting a car through a car rental app or service can vary depending on various factors such as the type of vehicle, the length of the rental, and the location. However, on average, a daily rental for an economy car can cost around $30 to $40, while a more luxurious or larger vehicle can cost $70 to $100 or more per day. Keep in mind that these are just average costs and prices can fluctuate based on factors like location, availability, and time of the year.

Image: Envato Elements

This article, "The Best Car Rental App: 11 Great Options" was first published on Small Business Trends