Zipcar in Boston: Frugal Fun or Fancy Faux Pas?
Let's face it, Boston can be a walkable city, but sometimes your inner lobster roll enthusiast craves a day trip to Salem, or maybe that antique lamp won't fit on the T. That's where Zipcar swoops in, like a knight in shining (and hopefully fuel-efficient) armor. But before you zip off in a flurry of horn honks (Boston drivers, am I right?), you might be wondering: how much is this magical car-borrowing service going to set me back?
The Beans on the Bill:
Membership: Zipcar offers two membership options: pay-as-you-go at $9 a month or a yearly commitment for $90. Think of it as the difference between grabbing a latte every now and then or having a year-long Dunkin' Donuts pass (because let's be real, Boston runs on Dunkin').
Rental Rates: Here's where things get interesting. You can rent by the hour (think quick errands or late-night burrito runs) or by the day (perfect for weekend getaways). Prices vary depending on the car type, but expect to pay somewhere in the ballpark of $9.50 to $18 per hour and $79 to $132.50 per day.
But Wait, There's More! (Because in Boston, there always is)
The beauty of Zipcar is that gas, insurance, and those pesky 180 daily miles are included. Yes, you read that right, gas is included! Consider it your free pass to explore Boston's hidden gems (and maybe even accidentally take a scenic detour for that perfect cup of chowder).
Fun Fact: Did you know Zipcar offers a variety of vehicles? From zippy little Hondas to rugged Jeeps, there's a car to suit your every need (or at least your desire to make a grand entrance at the farmers market).
So, is Zipcar a Fancy Faux Pas?
Absolutely not! It's a fantastic option for those who need a car occasionally but don't want the hassle (and expense) of owning one. Plus, who can resist the allure of spontaneous adventures fueled by cheap gas and the freedom of the open road (or, you know, the not-so-open Mass Pike)?
## Zipcar in Boston: FAQ
How to sign up for Zipcar?
Head over to the Zipcar website and follow the easy sign-up process. You'll need a valid driver's license and a pulse (okay, maybe not a pulse, but some basic info).
How much does it cost to join Zipcar?
As mentioned above, membership is either $9 per month or $90 per year.
Are there any additional fees?
There might be a young driver fee for those under 25, so be sure to check the Zipcar website for details.
How do I find a Zipcar near me?
The Zipcar app is your best friend! You can use it to locate vehicles, make reservations, and even honk the horn to find your car (because let's be honest, we've all been there).
How many miles are included with a Zipcar rental?
The first 180 miles are included in your daily rate. Anything over that, you'll pay a per-mile fee.