Getaround is a peer-to-peer (P2P) car-sharing app that connects car owners looking to earn extra money with people who need access to a vehicle for a few hours, a few days, or a week.
Apps like Getaround have become a popular alternative to traditional car rental companies, which can be less flexible and more expensive. However, while Getaround still operates in several European countries, the company shut down its U.S. operations in February 2025. With Getaround no longer an option for American car renters, we're sharing some top alternatives to Getaround.
What Is Getaround?
Founded in 2009 by Sam Zaid, Jessica Scorpio, and Elliot Kroo, Getaround operates in several European countries, including France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Belgium, the U.K., Norway, and the Netherlands. While it no longer operates in the U.S. (as of February 2025), the company maintains its headquarters in San Francisco, CA.
Why Did Getaround Shutdown Its U.S. Operations?
On February 12, 2025, Getaround posted an article on its website announcing that it was winding down its car-sharing service in the U.S. While the company maintained that the decision was “part of a broader effort to streamline operations and better focus on…strategic opportunities in Europe”, it admitted that it was facing a “lack of liquidity” that made it impossible to continue operating in the U.S.
Top Getaround Alternatives
Getaround is no longer serving the U.S. market, but here are a few alternatives to consider:
Turo
For many, Turo is the name that first comes to mind when they think of car-sharing apps. It operates in the U.S., France, Australia, the U.K., as well as in 8 out of 10 Canadian provinces. It offers more variety than any traditional car rental company can provide — you'll find everything from affordable daily drivers to Teslas, sports cars, vintage rides, and luxury SUVs. Many Turo hosts offer free delivery or contactless pickup for added convenience. And prices are often lower than what you'll pay with Hertz or Enterprise.
Insurance is usually included in the booking, but always review the fine print to ensure you know what's covered. If you're looking for flexibility and unique car options, consider Turo for your next trip.
Zipcar
Zipcar is a longstanding North American car-sharing service that operates more like a membership-based short-term car rental service than a peer-to-peer (P2P) platform. For some, it can be a great alternative to owning a car. Here's how it works:
You sign up with a one-time application fee of $25, which is non-refundable. Then, you can choose between a $9/month plan or a $90/year plan. Essentially, you're getting two months free with the annual plan. Once you become a member, Zipcar covers the car's gas, insurance, maintenance, registration, and any roadside assistance. To use Zipcar, simply book a vehicle through the app for anywhere from one hour to a few days. Zipcar provides a designated parking spot; all you need to do is show up, unlock the car with the app or an RFID card, then drive it and return it to the same spot.
Most US reservations include 180-200 miles per 24-hour period, plus 20 additional miles per each extra hour booked. If you exceed the included mileage, you will be charged $ 0.67 per mile. Zipcar is super convenient for short trips, especially since your gas, insurance, and maintenance are all included. However, it can be quite expensive for long trips, and you must return the car to the same spot (one-way trips are not supported). Of course, remember that you're paying a membership fee regardless of whether you book a car or not. So, if you don't need to drive often, it might not be worth it.
Traditional Car Rental Companies
Car-sharing apps won't always be the best fit. Sometimes, you need a good old-fashioned car rental company, like Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, or Avis. This option is often the best choice for longer trips or when you need to guarantee a specific type of vehicle. Traditional car rental companies operate big fleets and a range of options, from compact cars to large SUVs and even pickup trucks. They are also conveniently located at major transportation hubs, like large airports, train stations, and throughout large cities.
But while they are often the most reliable choice, you may have to deal with long lines at rental counters, expensive insurance fees, and even unexpected costs that might arise. Prices can also be very high during the holiday season or peak travel periods.
How Do Car-Sharing Apps Like Getaround Work?
If you've ever booked a vacation rental through Airbnb, you already have a basic idea of how car-sharing apps like Getaround work. Instead of renting a car from a traditional car rental company like Enterprise, Hertz, or Alamo, you're renting a car directly from the owner. Many car owners don't need constant access to their vehicles. By listing their vehicles for rent on a car-sharing app, they can make some extra money instead of leaving their cars sitting idle in their driveways.
While the process might differ slightly between car-sharing apps, here's how it usually works:
1. Owners list their cars: As a car owner, you can list your vehicle on car-sharing apps like Getaround or Turo. You'll need to create a profile for your vehicle and provide pictures, car details, and availability, just as you would when listing a house or cottage on Airbnb. Vehicles must meet minimum eligibility requirements, such as age, mileage, and value, to be listed.
2. Renters search and book cars: If you need to rent a car, you can search for and book cars on the app. Need a convertible for a weekend getaway? An SUV for a ski trip into the mountains? How about an EV to save at the pumps? These apps let you select the perfect car for your trip. You'll be able to view the owner's rules, pickup and drop-off details, and prices upfront.
3. Pickup & return the vehicle: Sometimes, owners will deliver the car to you at an airport or hotel. At other times, they use a key box or a remote keyless entry system. When you're finished with the car, return it in the same condition, following any agreed-upon instructions.
What About Insurance?
One of the most important considerations when renting a car is having adequate car rental insurance in place. Car-sharing apps address this by providing both car owners and renters with insurance, ensuring both parties have peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need a ride across town or want to plan a weekend getaway, there is no shortage of car-sharing or rental options. Turo is perfect if you want to choose from a wide range of unique cars at affordable rates, while Zipcar is ideal for short trips since your gas and insurance are included. If you're planning a longer trip, you may be better off opting for a traditional car rental company, such as Hertz or Enterprise, especially if you need unlimited miles. The best choice will depend on how far you're driving, the services available in your area, and how long you need the car.
The bottom line? Take time to compare your options and pick the service that works best for you.
Reviewed by: Robert Farrington
The post Best Getaround Alternatives: Turo, Zipcar, And More appeared first on The College Investor.
