Is CAR SHARING the future?

In recent years, car sharing has become increasingly popular in cities around the world, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s a great way to reduce the cost of running a car, make money from yours when you’re not using it or get occasional access to one if you don’t have your own. From giving lifts to friends and colleagues to joining a car club, there’s a car sharing option to suit everyone.

CARPOOLING

If you have room in your car on your daily commute or school run, why not set up a carpool with colleagues or other parents? A carpool is really just a regular lift-giving arrangement, but it can lighten the load of drop-offs, pick-ups or journeys to work. Plus, as your car will clock up fewer miles, you can save money on maintenance, fuel and repairs.

RENT OUT YOUR CAR

The average car in the UK sits idle for about 23 hours every day. Instead of leaving it parked, rent it out through a website such as Hiyacar, Drivy, or easycar. Rent out camper vans and motorhomes on Camptoo.

CAR CLUBS

Car clubs such as Zipcar allow members to borrow cars for short periods of time. Using

a smartphone app, you can reserve cars at nearby locations as little as 15 minutes in advance. There’s normally a one-off membership fee to pay or a monthly subscription charge, depending on the plan you sign up to. Prices for a round trip start at £3 per hour or £33 per day. If you drive further than 60 miles in a 24-hour period, mileage charges will apply.