Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing service that works like Airbnb for cars. Instead of renting from a traditional company like Hertz or Enterprise, you rent a vehicle directly from a local car owner through the Turo app or website. The process involves searching for a car, booking it, and then coordinating with the owner for pickup, often at a mutually agreed-upon location.
The process is straightforward:
- Search and Book: You enter your location, trip dates, and preferences. Turo's platform displays available cars, from economy models to luxury and specialty vehicles. Each listing includes photos, pricing, the car owner's rules, and reviews from past renters.
- Choose Your Protection Plan: During checkout, you select a protection plan. Turo offers several tiers, from a basic minimum required by law to plans that significantly reduce your financial responsibility for damage. It's crucial to understand the deductible you'd be responsible for in case of an incident.
- Coordinate Pickup: After booking, you message the car owner through the app to arrange the key exchange. This can be done in person or via a contactless lockbox. The owner will typically document the car's condition with photos before and after your trip.
- The Trip: You use the car for the duration of your rental. Some owners offer extras like delivery to an airport or unlimited mileage for an additional fee.
- Return: You return the car to the agreed location with the same fuel level. The owner inspect it, and the trip is complete.
A key difference from traditional rentals is the protection plan structure. While traditional companies often include a basic level of insurance in their base price, Turo's base price is typically lower, but you must actively choose a protection plan. Your personal auto insurance policy may also provide some coverage, but you must check with your provider beforehand.
| Feature | Turo (Peer-to-Peer) | Traditional Rental (e.g., Enterprise) |
|---|
| Vehicle Selection | Unique, personal vehicles (sports cars, EVs, SUVs) | Standardized fleet of recent models |
| Pricing Model | Often lower base price; protection plans are add-ons | All-inclusive pricing (base rate, taxes, fees) |
| Pickup/Location | Flexible, often not at an airport counter | Primarily at designated airport/office locations |
| Owner Interaction | Direct communication with the car owner | Transaction with a company employee |
| Typical Minimum Age | Often 21, but can be 18-20 in some states | Usually 25, with young renter fees for under-25 |
