Car sharing offers the convenience of a car without the hassle and expense of owning one. Car sharing is a travel option provided by an agency or company where a group of cars are available for use by its members. Cars are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at many locations.

Zipcar (or 503.328.3539) offers a car sharing service in the Portland/Vancouver region.

Car Share members usually pay a one-time membership fee, and then pay for the use of the car based on an hourly or daily rate. Members do not pay for gas, insurance, maintenance, or other costs normally associated with owning a car. Those costs are covered by the membership and usage fees. Car reservations are easy and can be made online or over the phone. You then go to a car -- they are stationed at convenient, designated locations -- use your Zipcard (when using a Zipcar) to get in the car, and go on your way.

How does this qualify as a trip reduction option? Car sharing's flexibility allows you to use other trip options like bike, transit, or car pool, while still having access to a car that same day. For example: you could bike to work and still have a car to get to a work or personal appointment. You then return the car to the pick-up location and go home your normal way.

Convenience and flexibility are key advantages of the Car Share option.