Renting On Turo: What should you know?

Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing service that has a presence in the United States and other countries.

The service provides a way for private car owners to rent out their vehicles through the Turo app and website.

What started as a small operation in San Francisco is now a booming service in 56 countries.

This post will uncover why you should consider renting on Turo, how the process works, and how you can get started today.

Why Should You Consider Renting on Turo?

Turo is the world’s first car-sharing service and is expanding rapidly.

Andre Haddad is the CEO of Turo and has helped the company grow to over 14 million members, 450,000 cars, and $1 billion in value.

In most major US cities, you can find Turo, like New York, Austin, and San Diego.

Renting on Turo is a simple process to book cars for test driving, road trips, errands, and special occasions.

You can search for vehicles in your area that meet your needs and preferences.

Whether you want a sporty, luxury car for a night out or a pickup truck to help you move, you can find a car rental that fits your budget and style.

How to Use Turo

Before renting a car on Turo, you must create an account using an email address, Facebook account, Google account, or Apple ID.

To finish the account registration, you will need to enter your mobile phone number to receive texts and access the Turo app.

Once you sign up, go to your account page and complete the required steps for approval to drive.

These will vary by country, but all account holders will need to have a valid driver’s license, home address, payment method, and a clear photo of themselves to upload as a profile picture.

Account verification will usually take 24 hours, and you can check your approval status on your account page and book a car rental as soon as you get it!

If Turo denies you an account, check out this guide for help.

Search by location and then filter your results to suit your preferences to find a car.

Also, input the dates and times you need the vehicle to ensure the one you want is available.

Once you have found the perfect car rental, you can book it and then check the pick-up and drop-off process, which will vary by car owner (or host).

Why Should you Use Turo?

You may be asking yourself what makes Turo different from a traditional car rental.

While there are many similarities, there are also benefits to using Turo over other options.

The hosts on Turo set their prices, which means you can find fantastic deals on the platform.

While the lower-priced cars can be older models, it’s ideal if you are a budget conscience traveler.

Prices vary wildly on Turo.

You can find cars ranging from $15 a day to $1000 a day; it depends on what you want.

Other advantages of Turo include car insurance savings, lower age requirements, and a convenient pick-up and drop-off experience.

Most Turo hosts have a streamlined, contactless process for picking up and dropping off the car rental.

For some, you can even use your phone to unlock the car door and simply get the keys out of the glovebox.

How Does Turo’s Car Renting Process Work?

When searching for a car rental on the Turo platform, select the vehicle you want and go over the complete listing details.

You will see areas where you enter your trip details when you checkout.

Enter your trip dates, pick up and return location, and apply any discounts.

The Turo platform will show you the cancelation policy, the distance included in your trip, insurance coverage options (like liability coverage), host details, available extras (ski racks, snow chains, etc.), and any other instructions from your host.

You will also see your total trip price.

Go over all the details of your booking before you submit it.

When you’re ready, write a message to your host and click the green button (this is when Turo will charge your credit card on file).

Your host has ten hours to approve or deny your trip request in most instances.

If they do neither, you will receive a refund.

Your host will provide all the information for picking up the car, and you can message them and add additional drivers while you wait.

Make sure to include an adequate insurance protection plan before you pick up the vehicle.

As well, bring your driver’s license to pick up the car rental and take photos of the outside and inside of the vehicle, documenting any damage you see.

Eligible Criteria for Renting on Turo

Eligibility requirements vary by region and are additional to the ones mentioned previously.

If you are in the United States, Turo will require your social security number, auto insurance score, valid license, and proof you have been driving for at least two years if you are under 25.

How is Turo Different From Other Car Renting Companies?

Turo offers a seamless and convenient process for renting a car.

Regular car renting companies don’t let you search for a vehicle’s exact make and model; their options are usually economy, intermediate, and full-size.

With Turo, you can filter through hundreds of cars, including compact, fuel-efficient, roomy minivans and luxury sports cars.

With other car rental companies, you have to pick up your vehicle at their physical location, usually near an airport.

In contrast, Turo has hosts close to your zip code, and some will even drop the rental car off to you.

Turo also has a wider variety of price points to fit every budget, and each rental comes with excellent customer service.

Unlock cars instantly with the Turo Go app.

Things to Consider Before Renting a Vehicle With Turo

Turo has some downsides like most modern conveniences, though you can avoid them with proper research and planning.

Older cars can sometimes have quirks and may require you to reach out to the owner for clarification and help.

Turo does not require vehicles to be new and in perfect condition so that prices can stay low and the company can reach more people.

The owner can also file a damage report against you if you bring the car rental back in any condition other than when you picked it up.

That includes anything from significant damage to minor scratches and dents.

Here are a few tips to help mitigate some of these common issues.

1. Go Through the Reviews

Every host on the platform has reviews from previous renters on their profiles.

You must read through these reviews to get a sense of the owner and the car’s condition.

Consider finding something else if you notice a recurring theme among reviewers (like being charged for minor issues).

When you finish your trip, leave a Turo review to help the next rider.

2. Check the Vehicle for Any Damages Before Hitting the Road

Thoroughly take photos of the inside and outside of the rental car, mentioning any imperfections.

Even if the car’s description reads “like new,” check for minor scuffs, dings, and fabric tears.

It may seem like a waste of time, but you don’t want to be held liable for something that wasn’t your fault.

3. Pick the Right Car for Your Journey

There are a handful of the best cars on Turo, and understanding which ones these are will make or break your trip.

You may want to go with the cheapest option, but if you plan to ride through the remote countryside and deserted backwoods, you might need something newer and in better condition.

Also, ask the owner if the rental car has any issues you may need to know about (like a drifting wheel or inadequate snow handling).

The Bottom Line

Turo has made significant strides in the car rental industry, making it more affordable and convenient for renters worldwide.

The groundbreaking Turo app connects vehicle owners and renters, helping owners make money, and renters save.

Renting on Turo provides many options to get around, whether you are budget conscientious or you want to splurge on something fancy.

If you are looking for a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, check out Turo and book your next ride!