Airbnb meets rental cars: Hello, Flightcar

Would you rent your personal car out to a traveler? That's what Flightcar, a new company operating out of San Francisco and Boston, want to help you say "yes" to. What if I told you your car would be covered by a $1 million insurance policy? And that you'd get free parking at the airport? And that you'd get free valet curbside service to your flight and when you arrive? And that your car would be professionally cleaned before your arrival...for free? Not convinced? Ok, tell you what: what if I throw in a $10 gas card?

OK, that answers the question of why you'd want to list your car. But what about renting a car? Would you choose Flightcar? Why? For an upcoming trip to Boston, I priced rental cars out: the least expensive for about $500 for a compact for the time I will be there. Flightcar? How about a swanky 2009 Lexus GS for less than half that? You even get to see a picture of the car, learn about its owner, its description, mileage, and they throw in GPS. And yes, it comes with the same valet service for you as a renter as it does for an owner.

Sure, there are limitations: you can only drive 90 miles/day for that rate; they are limited to SFO and BOS right now; the car selection is limited. But, factor in that they give you free long term airport parking, regardless if your own car is rented, or you don't even need to rent your own car out, as well as their low prices, and it's a heck of a deal.

Convinced? Well, the only way to prove it is to do it, so I'll update after my trip! Stay tuned...

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Tretakoff Musings

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