Are you someone who enjoys exploring nature and national parks? If so, then you also know that visiting these areas often requires a car. However, not everyone has access to a vehicle. In such cases, ridesharing programs come in handy. They not only offer an affordable way to travel but also promote sustainability. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ridesharing programs for carpooling and public lands exploration.
The Benefits Of Ridesharing Programs
The popularity of ridesharing programs cannot be denied. Whether you’re going to work, running errands, or traveling, ridesharing offers several benefits, including:
- Cost-effective: Ridesharing is cheaper than owning and maintaining a car.
- Eco-friendly: Sharing a car with other people reduces the number of cars on the road, lowering carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner environment.
- Convenience: With ridesharing, you don’t have to worry about parking, traffic, or navigation.
1. Zimride
Zimride was founded in 2007 and is one of the oldest ridesharing programs available. It is popular among college students and employees who are looking to share rides. This program allows you to create and join rides that have already been posted.
How It Works
- Create a profile: You can create a profile via Facebook or LinkedIn.
- Search for rides: You can search for rides based on your location and destination.
- Post a ride: If there are no rides available, you can post your ride and wait for someone to join.
2. Ridejoy
Ridejoy is a carpooling program that enables you to share rides with people who are going in the same direction as you, whether it’s to work or a road trip. It prioritizes safety by verifying the identity of its members.
How It Works
- Create a profile: You can create a profile by linking your Facebook or LinkedIn account.
- Search for rides or riders: You can search for rides or riders based on your location and destination.
- Book a seat: Once you find a ride, you can book a seat and pay through the platform.
3. Carma Carpooling
Carma Carpooling was created to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainable transportation. It is free to use and connects drivers and riders who are traveling in the same direction.
How It Works
- Create a profile: You can create a profile by downloading the app and signing up.
- Search for rides or riders: You can connect with other riders or drivers who are going in the same direction.
- Pay for gas: Once you find a ride, you can pay through the app to cover the cost of gas.
4. Turo
Turo is a car-sharing program that allows people to rent cars from individuals. It’s an excellent option if you plan to explore national parks and other public lands where renting a vehicle is required.
How It Works
- Create a profile: You can create a profile and search for cars to rent in the area you’re visiting.
- Choose a vehicle: You can choose a car based on your preference and needs.
- Pick up the car: You can arrange to pick up the car from the owner at an agreed-upon location.
Conclusion
Ridesharing programs offer a practical and sustainable way to travel. They help reduce traffic congestion, promote a cleaner environment, and save you money. If you’re planning to explore national parks and other public lands, consider using Turo to rent a car. Otherwise, Zimride, Ridejoy, and Carma Carpooling are excellent options to explore when carpooling.