city car hire schemes

sounds better than normal car hire to me.

I'm thinking of doing the same thing, my car sits in the road for weeks without any use and then I have a flurry of needing it but mostly use the train / tube etc. Am also keen to know if anyone has had good experience of these car pool type schemes. When I work out what tax, insurance, MOT etc cost each year it galvanises me into action. But then those times you need a car, cabs are just so ridiculously expensive! grrrr x

I think Zipcar is brilliant!

I only use it occasionally, it's perfect for this and was invaluable when I was moving flat.

I don't know so much about City Car Club, but I think they were a little small in terms of number of cars/location when I was looking into this.

Zipcar good: 60 miles per day free, no C-charge, choice of cars
Bad: more expensive at weekends, you can only buy extra insurance to cover your £500 damage excess on a yearly basis (about £60)
...also... Mini Cooper's like going fast... this could endanger your licence!

Streetcar good: insurance can be covered by the month, also gives you Streetvan, more locations
Bad: 30 miles per day free, C-charge not included, only VW Golf's & Polo's

With both, there's petrol etc. included, and no real hidden extra's. You pay your yearly membership - look out for a deal and/or negotiate this down. You pay your hourly fee, and off you go - but the C-charge with Streetcar is worth considering.
Naughty behavior fee's like late returns could be a sting in the tail (at least £25, check the T&C's), but the rules are clear, play by them and you'll be fine. I've never had one.

If you work out the cost for longer trips you'll usually find it cheaper to go to a normal rental company. Check before you get landed with the bill.

Always check for damage when you go to pick up your car. Report it to the company before you drive away or you'll be liable.

I highly recommend the idea. Both company websites show you where the nearest cars are without you having to sign up. Try it out!

I'll post a message in the Referrals board of this forum, for some free Zipcar credit :beer: