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How to start, pause and end your Poppy trip

Planning a quick ride or a longer getaway? With Poppy, you're in control, from the first tap to your return. Here's how it works.

Updated over a week ago

▶️ Starting your trip

  1. Reserve a vehicle for free (15 min)

    • Open the Poppy app

    • Pick your ride and reserve it for free for 15 minutes, or prolong your reservation.

    • Choose your desired rate, pass and insurance type.

    • You can cancel anytime during this window at no cost (if your vehicle comes with a high-demand fee, this fee will be charged if you cancel your trip).

  2. Check the car

    • Do a quick walk around

    • Report any visible damage directly in the app or send pictures via the in-app live chat

  3. Unlock and go

    • Tap "Unlock" in the app

    • Do a quick check of the interior and report dirt or damage in the app

    • Buckle up and you're ready!

💡 Tip: Want to schedule your ride ahead of time? You can! Learn how to schedule a ride.


⏸️ Pausing your trip

Need a break during your trip? You can pause anytime—even outside of Poppy zones (just note, those stops are at your own expense).

  • Tap ‘Pause’ in the app

  • Make sure:

    • Engine is off

    • Gear is in 'P'

    • Doors and windows are fully closed

    • For vehicles with a physical key, place it back in the keyholder in the glove compartment

    • You are parked in a legal parking spot

To continue, just tap ‘Unlock’ again.

💰 Pause rates vary depending on the vehicle. Prices are visible in the app when you select your desired vehicle.


⏹️ Ending your trip

When you're done, return the vehicle to any legal parking spot within a Poppy zone and end the trip in the app.

Before you leave the vehicle:

  • 🔒 Lock the car via the app

  • 🧼 Make sure the interior is clean

  • 👜 Take all personal items with you

  • 💡 Turn off the lights and engine

  • 🪟 Close all windows and doors

  • 💥 Report any damages in the app

  • 🅿️ Confirm it's parked legally


🚀 More things you can do


💸 Pricing, extra costs & insurance


💬 Need help on the go?

You can reach us directly through the app via live chat or by phone.


🧐 What is a 'Free test ride'?

If you received an email about a free test ride, it means you're invited to try out Poppy, completely free, for a short trip.

Here’s what you need to know:

🚗 What’s included?

  • 30 minutes (includes both driving and pause time)

  • 5 kilometers

  • No unlock fee

🕒 How long is it valid?

  • You have 3 days to claim your free test ride

  • Use it immediately if there's a vehicle nearby, or schedule a ride for later

📩 Reminders

  • We’ll remind you before your free test ride pass expires during your trip

💸 What happens after it expires?

  • Once your free test ride pass expires, the standard rate per minute applies

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