For those who only need to drive occasionally, or who find the cost of car ownership too onerous, joining a car club could make sense. Here we cover what they are, how to use them, and how to find one that suits your needs.
Want the freedom and convenience of a car, but without many of the associated costs? Looking for a mode of transport that's better for the environment and virtually eliminates the stresses and strains of parking?
If so, then joining a car club could make sense. Alongside the above benefits, there are a number of other plus points, which we'll cover in this article.
We'll also explain how to find, join, and use a club here in the UK.
Car clubs explained
A car club is a membership-based service that enables you to rent a vehicle located in your local area. Alongside the monthly membership fee, you pay to rent the car by the hour or by the mile.
In a big city like London or Birmingham, a major car club is likely to offer a wide range of vehicles, from cars to vans. Locations with smaller populations, on the other hand, might have fewer vehicle types to choose from.
How do car clubs work?
Car clubs work via special apps that let you book the vehicle of your choice, before giving you directions to the vehicle for you to pick up. In most cases, the rental vehicles are located in specific parking bays or pods.
You then simply use the app to unlock the car, get in, and follow the instructions for obtaining the keys.
In most cases, there is a keypad/fob inside the car which, once you've entered the correct information, will release the keys so you can begin your journey.
When you've completed your trip, you return the vehicle to the parking bay where you began, or to another parking location permitted by the provider.
During the log-off process, you'll be asked to check the car for any damage that may have occurred during your journey.
The vehicle will then be ready for the next member to use.
Credit: Rosemarie Mosteller - stock.adobe.com
Who might benefit from using a car club?
A car club could be ideal for someone who only needs a car occasionally. For example, a person who only works in their office two days a week, or someone who likes to take road trips on the weekend but uses public transport on weekdays.
However, for someone who needs regular use of a car, a car club may not be suitable since the costs would likely exceed the cost of owning and running a vehicle.
Drive a different car each time
Car clubs offer a good degree of variety; you'll be able to drive a range of different models, which some drivers might find exciting.
How a car club could save you money
Someone who only needs a car occasionally could save a significant amount of money by using a car club, because they wouldn't have to pay for:
- a vehicle
- car insurance
- road tax (VED)
- fuel/charging
- maintenance
- repairs
- MOTs
- parking permits
- eventual scrappage
- breakdown cover (since this is provided by the rental firm)
Credit: GraemeJBaty - stock.adobe.com
How does using a car club help the environment?
Using a car club may help the environment in several ways. According to research by the CoMo charity, each car club car takes 26 private cars off the road.
Fewer cars on the road means less congestion and better air quality.
Additionally, car clubs tend to operate newer, cleaner vehicles that create less pollution.
How do I join a car club?
A number of car clubs operate across the UK. Some of these serve specific local areas, while others offer their services across the country.
Well-known brands include Zipcar, Enterprise Car Club, and Co-wheels.
There are also more local, community-based car clubs, sometimes operated by councils or smaller private firms.
Choose a car club that suits your needs
Some car clubs are better for longer trips, while others are suited to regular short trips. Research some car clubs and see what solution suits you best.
Other providers specialise in hybrids or electric vehicles - which may be of more interest to some drivers.
Credit: William - stock.adobe.com
Check the car club costs and fees
Each car club charges differently. You may be charged the following:
- Annual or monthly membership fee
- Charges by the hour
- Charges by miles driven
- Out-of-hours fees
- Fuel fees
Look out for car club sign-up deals
Car clubs are big business in the UK, so providers have created all kinds of offers to entice new customers. Look out for these to help reduce your costs. However, don't be afraid to switch providers if you come across a more suitable or cheaper car club later on.
And as always, read reviews by people who have used car clubs.
Look for information about:
- The age and condition of cars provided
- Availability of cars
- How easy the booking system is
- Unexpected or high fees
- Customer service
Conclusion
For those who only need a car occasionally, a car club could be a great way to cut costs. It also avoids the stresses of car ownership - from parking to organising repairs.
And then there's the environmental benefit: choosing a car club may help reduce congestion and pollution, which is good news for all.
