🛣️ For Ride Hosts

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1. Not an Uber—this is community ride sharing.

    You’re offering a ride to fellow outdoor lovers, it's okay to accept a cost-share (e.g. gas, parking, or appreciation for your time), but it’s not a professional service.

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2. Set clear expectations.

• Share pickup time/spot, and return plan clearly

• Let riders know about any personal preferences if any (music, snacks, pets, etc.).

• Mention how much room is available for gear etc.

 

3. Build connections along the way.

Carpooling isn’t just practical—it’s a chance to get to know your trail buddies better before you even hit the trail.

 

4. Safety is mutual.

• Offer rides to people you feel comfortable with.

• Use the app to check the joinees profile and keep communication on-platform.
   

5. Be flexible, but communicative.

• Let everyone know if plans shift. Life happens—but communication builds trust.

 

👥 For Riders (Ride Joiners)

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1. Respect the driver’s time, effort, and space.

• Be on time.

• Ask before adjusting the music, eating, or inviting someone along.

• Offer to split costs—think gas, tolls, and respect for the driver’s time and effort even if the driver hasn’t mentioned it.

 

2. Confirm the plan.

• Check when and where you’re being picked up and dropped off.

• Be on the same page about ride logistics.

 

3. Safety first.

• We recommend checking user profiles on the app in case you are riding with someone you don’t know.

• Let someone know your carpool plans.

 

4. Share the ride, build a bond.

Some of the best trail friendships begin in the car. Use the time to connect, share stories, or simply enjoy the ride together.

 

5. Communicate openly.

• Speak up respectfully if something feels uncomfortable.

• Don’t ghost—let the driver know if your plans change.
   

 

 

🔁 Cost Sharing – What’s Fair?

We encourage splitting trip costs reasonably—gas, tolls, parking—and recognizing the driver’s time and contribution. This helps keep things respectful and fair, without turning it into a paid gig.

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✅ Okay: 

• “Let’s split the $20 gas/charging and help cover parking, toll, and other ride related expenses.”

• Suggested contributions for local trips (as a baseline):

  • $3/$5 per passenger for trips up to 30 miles one way/round trip

  • $5/$7 per passenger for trips up to 50 miles one way/round trip

  • $8/$10 per passenger for trips up to 70 one way/round trip

 

These are guidelines, not fixed rates—flex based on the situation and communicate openly.

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🚫 Not okay: 

• “$30 per seat.” (This isn’t a rideshare service.)

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📲 Tips for Everyone

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• Use in-app chat to finalize details.

• Check each other’s profiles.

• New to MyTrailPals? Try joining as a rider before offering rides.

• Keep it courteous—this is about community, not convenience.

 

Thanks for choosing to go further, together. Carpooling isn’t just about saving gas—it’s about creating community, reducing impact, and making the outdoors more accessible & inclusive for everyone. 🌿