Zipcar in Chicago: Rental Ride or Financial Rollercoaster? (Spoiler Alert: It's Neither)
Let's face it, Chicago is a vibrant city, but public transport can feel like a game of Tetris gone wrong sometimes. You never quite know what piece (read: grumpy passenger) is going to fit in next. So, when the urge for a spontaneous road trip or a weekend Ikea expedition strikes, Zipcar seems like a knight in shining armor. But before you jump in and peel out with a trunk full of lumber, let's talk about the cost.
Shelling Out for Wheels: Membership and More!
First things first, becoming a Zipcar member is like joining a cool car club, minus the questionable initiation rituals (looking at you, high school me). A basic membership sets you back a chill $9 a month, which is less than that fancy avocado toast you swore you'd give up (but secretly haven't).
Here's the beauty: gas, insurance, and those pesky roadside assistance situations are all included in this sweet deal. It's like having a fairy godmother who gifts you a car and magically refills the tank. Just don't expect her to help you parallel park (sorry, gotta hone those skills yourself).
Vroom Vroom! How Much Does a Zipcar Actually Cost?
Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the cost of the car itself. This depends on the kind of ride you need. Cruising around in a zippy Honda Civic might set you back around $11 an hour, which is honestly cheaper than most therapy sessions after dealing with rush hour on the Red Line.
Need a minivan to move your entire dorm room because, let's be honest, adulting is hard? Vans are a bit pricier, clocking in at around $18 an hour. But hey, at least you won't have to explain to your friends why you have a futon strapped to your back on the bus.
Daily rates are pretty reasonable too, starting around $79, which is perfect for a weekend getaway or that long-awaited escape to that apple orchard you've been eyeing. Just remember, there's a limit of 180 miles per day, but hey, with all the delicious apple cider donuts you'll be consuming, who needs to go anywhere else?
The Final Verdict: So, is Zipcar Worth It?
Absolutely! Think of it as an investment in your sanity and spontaneity. No more cramming onto crowded buses or begging your friend with a car for a favor (we all have that one friend).
Plus, with Zipcar, you can ditch the car ownership drama. No oil changes, no parking tickets (hopefully!), just the freedom of the open road (well, as open as Chicago traffic allows).
So, the next time you're itching for an adventure, don't let car troubles hold you back. Zipcar is a budget-friendly way to explore the windy city (and maybe get lost in a corn maze, because why not?).
