When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
FriendWithA
Why FriendWithA is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
FriendWithA is a pioneering peer-to-peer rental platform headquartered in Seattle, Washington, specializing in connecting communities through a secure and insured marketplace where individuals can rent, lend, and borrow items rather than purchase them. Founded in 2018, this platform caters to a diverse network that includes neighborhoods, workplaces, churches, apartment complexes, and even entire cities or states. FriendWithA stands out as a great place to meet up with friends or community members because it facilitates sharing of items like sporting equipment, electric mobility devices, photography gear, and household tools, fostering trust and sustainable consumption within local groups. The platform’s unique privacy-focused model enables users to control who can view and access their listings, ensuring a safe and tailored sharing experience. Besides enabling financial savings by avoiding unnecessary purchases, FriendWithA promotes environmental sustainability by encouraging reuse and reduced consumption. Users appreciate the ability to try new adventures affordably by renting equipment like electric skateboards or camping gear before committing to a purchase. The community-building aspect, where users engage directly with item owners who are often passionate experts in their respective fields, enhances the social experience and confidence in rentals. FriendWithA’s insurance coverage further reassures users, making it a reliable and innovative solution for peer-to-peer sharing and rental needs.
Here's what people think of FriendWithA
As of recent, FriendWithA holds a 4.9-star rating based on 80 reviews.
Users who have reviewed FriendWithA consistently highlight its high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 80 reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction overall. Positive reviews frequently mention the platform’s user-friendly app and website, the secure and insured rental transactions, and the flexible peer-to-peer approach that enables renting and lending within trusted communities. Many users praise the ability to discover rare or high-end equipment such as extreme sports gear and electric mobility items, which are otherwise costly to buy or difficult to find. The platform’s focus on building community connections and supporting sustainable practices by reducing waste and consumption is also well received. On the other hand, a smaller portion of feedback points out limitations due to the platform’s relatively young presence and smaller user base, which can sometimes limit the availability of items in certain locations. Some users note that commission fees, both for owners and renters, may affect the overall cost, and others mention a learning curve with background checks or the process to list items properly. Despite these negatives, the general consensus is that FriendWithA fills an important niche for local peer-to-peer rentals and continues to grow in popularity and trust. In conclusion, while new users may find some initial hurdles, FriendWithA offers a compelling, secure, and community-focused rental experience that aligns with current trends in sharing economy and environmental consciousness.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anthony Tang
Great website. Only been a member for a couple months now and already have renters who borrowed my gear. Insurance policy really gives you peace of mind. Only wish they would eventually make this an application which would really make this even more user friendly but so far love this site and hope more people hear about it and use it. There are some things that they need to change such as making the user manually show item returned instead of being automatic as what if the user doesn’t return rented item on time. Can use some fine tuning but overall very satisfied with this website.
Emily Bright
I used friendwithA ___ to rent a one wheel for our trip to Hawaii since we couldn't fly with ours and it was a great experience. Super easy to look up who had a one wheel close to where we were staying on the island and then communicating with the host was made easy and had a fast response. Glad there is a way to easily rent a one wheel, electric bike, etc for my next vacation.
Aaron Bloomfield
I’ve rented out my Onewheel several times on this platform and it’s been a surprisingly good experience. It’s safe, renters have been responsible, and the platform founder is very accessible whenever I’ve had a question. This is a great way to “spread the stoke” even when you can’t fly with a board or just want to try one out.
Kenny Kolda
Great experience in Scottsdale, AZ. Had a small issue with the reservation but Stefan fixed it on the spot so I was able to pick up the boad on time and have a great experience! The owner was very accommodating. Will definitely do again when I am not able to travel with my own board! Thanks!
gary damico
My husband and I had a great time renting the one wheels. The owner was great at giving tips on how to ride it and provided a helmet and wrist gear. He was very patient. The pick up and drop off of the Onewheel’s was very convenient.
How to reach FriendWithA
None
Website: None
Why FriendWithA may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at FriendWithA with your friends?
FriendWithA presents an exceptional opportunity to gather with friends for a memorable and engaging experience thanks to its unique peer-to-peer gear rental marketplace. Unlike traditional venues, FriendWithA offers a diverse and dynamic way to connect by providing access to high-quality recreational gear, tech gadgets, and specialty equipment without the need to purchase them outright. This platform allows groups to rent exciting items such as electric skateboards, Onewheels, electric unicycles, camping gear, and more, making it straightforward to plan adventurous outings, explore new hobbies, or simply enjoy time together outdoors with novelty and convenience. Its 4.9-star rating from 80 reviews attests to the satisfaction of users who appreciate the blend of safety, variety, and ease of use offered by FriendWithA. The seamless booking process, user verification, and integrated insurance coverage provide peace of mind for both renters and lenders alike, enhancing trust among users. By choosing FriendWithA, you not only unlock access to a broad range of versatile gear but also create an interactive, flexible, and affordable setting to bond, explore, and build shared experiences with your friends, making it a stellar choice for group meetups.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at FriendWithA?
FriendWithA offers a rich selection of activities through its rental gear, perfectly suited for group adventures and fun gatherings. One standout activity is riding electric skateboards, like the Backfire Ranger X2 All Terrain model, which is praised for its performance and reliability, providing an exhilarating experience suitable for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Users have reported smooth transactions and well-maintained equipment, contributing to a hassle-free, high-adrenaline experience. Additionally, the platform includes rentals of electric unicycles and Onewheels, expanding options for friends seeking novel ways to explore urban landscapes or parks together. Renting outdoor and camping gear enables groups to organize nature outings, hikes, or weekend trips with the equipment they need but without the burden of ownership. Cameras and other tech gadgets available for rent open the door for creative activities such as photography excursions or content creation sessions. Moreover, FriendWithA’s insurance coverage and personal liability protection offer assurance during physical activities, encouraging groups to take part in these pursuits with reduced risk. This range of rentals invites a highly customizable gathering where friends can tailor the day to their interests — from sports and exploration to creative projects.
Why is FriendWithA the perfect platform for group meetups?
FriendWithA stands out as an ideal platform for group meetups due to its blend of convenience, variety, and safety, all tailored to enrich social outings. Its peer-to-peer marketplace model means that users can find unique and quality items close to them, often accommodating last-minute plans and diverse interests within a group. The platform's interface simplifies searching, booking, and communication with owners through anonymized messaging, thus preserving privacy while ensuring smooth logistics. Another key factor is FriendWithA’s comprehensive insurance program, which covers losses, damages, and liabilities for rented gear up to significant amounts, fostering confidence in renting and sharing expensive or delicate items. Groups can plan more ambitious activities like electric skateboard tours or camping experiences without worrying about the complexities of gear ownership or maintenance. The option to earn referral rewards further incentivizes friends to engage collectively, bringing benefits not just socially but also financially. FriendWithA's reputation system based on user reviews helps build a trustworthy community, enabling renters to pick reliable gear and know more about the responsible behavior of fellow users. This combination of trust, variety, and support mechanisms makes FriendWithA well-suited for memorable, safe, and enjoyable group meetups.
How does the rental process enhance group experiences?
The rental process at FriendWithA is designed to be streamlined and user-friendly, making it easy for groups to quickly secure the gear they need to enjoy their activities together. Users can browse an extensive catalogue of items, filter options by location, type, and availability, and make bookings with a simple click. Once a request is sent, the gear owner approves the reservation, and renters arrange pickups directly, eliminating confusing third-party handling. This direct rental approach often leads to personalized interactions and flexibility, such as adjusting rental periods or discussing usage tips, which can enrich the overall group experience. The platform also requires email, phone, and sometimes ID verification to enhance trust between users, which is crucial for group events where multiple participants may share responsibility for equipment. Moreover, the availability of rental damage protection plans and liability insurance lessens concerns about accidents or mishaps, allowing everyone to focus on fun rather than worry about potential financial risks. By ensuring transparency, security, and ease, FriendWithA’s rental process supports hassle-free, spontaneous group gatherings and fosters a cooperative environment.
What benefits do insurance and safety features provide for group meetups?
Insurance and safety features at FriendWithA play a pivotal role in fostering a secure and worry-free environment for group meetups, particularly when engaging with high-value or potentially risky equipment. The platform partners with insurance providers to offer coverage that protects against loss, theft, or damage for rented items valued up to $10,000, which is significant for gear like electric skateboards or cameras. Additionally, personal liability insurance of up to $100,000 safeguards renters and lenders against accidents or injuries that may occur during the use of the rental equipment. This coverage is especially important in group settings where responsibility for gear use and supervision is shared among several people, reducing individual liability concerns. Owners can confidently list valuable items on the platform knowing that insurance mitigates financial risks, while renters can enjoy gear with peace of mind. FriendWithA also encourages responsible renting through its reputation and review system, promoting respectful treatment of the gear. These protections make group plans safer and more accessible by lowering barriers related to equipment risk and fostering trust between users.
How does FriendWithA support growing community trust and engagement?
FriendWithA actively cultivates a trusted community atmosphere that enhances user engagement and satisfaction by implementing rigorous identity verification, a transparent reputation system, and secure communication channels. Every user must verify their identity through email and phone, with additional ID verification for items over $1,000, increasing accountability on both sides of transactions. The reputation system relies on reviews and ratings from previous rentals, providing valuable insights into the behavior and reliability of renters and lenders alike. This creates a feedback loop that motivates users to maintain good conduct, respect gear, and offer excellent service. Communication between users occurs via anonymized messaging, protecting privacy while enabling clear, efficient coordination for details like pickup and usage instructions. Furthermore, FriendWithA incentivizes community growth and loyalty through a referral program where participants earn rewards for bringing new users who list or rent gear. As more people join and engage, the diversity and inventory expand, making it easier for groups in different locations to find what they need. This strong community backbone ensures that group meetups facilitated by FriendWithA are supported by a network of trustworthy and engaged users.
What are the advantages of FriendWithA’s gear diversity for group meetups?
FriendWithA’s gear diversity is a substantial advantage for group meetups, allowing tailored experiences that suit any group’s interests and preferences. The platform’s inventory ranges from high-tech electric mobility devices like skateboards, Onewheels, and electric unicycles to outdoor camping gear and high-quality cameras, enabling groups to mix activity types—from urban exploration and sport to creative or nature outings. This wide selection encourages groups with varied tastes to find common ground and enjoy activities together without having to commit to purchasing expensive equipment they might not use frequently. The availability of niche and specialized gear also allows for experimentation and trying new hobbies within a group setting, making meetups exciting and fresh each time. The option to rent rather than buy reduces financial barriers and logistical hassles, such as storage and maintenance, enhancing spontaneity and convenience. Ultimately, FriendWithA’s diverse gear catalog supports meaningful and shared experiences, promoting togetherness and adventure for friends and families planning social gatherings.
How does FriendWithA’s pricing and referral program enhance group participation?
FriendWithA's pricing model and referral program are designed to encourage group participation by making gear rentals accessible and rewarding for users. While the platform charges a standard service fee, the ability to rent expensive gear without the need for ownership allows groups to stretch their budget and enjoy premium equipment for activities. This affordability enables more friends or family members to join in on adventures without financial strain. Additionally, FriendWithA’s referral program offers financial incentives, giving users $20 for every new user they bring who lists or rents an item, and the new user receives a $10 bonus. This encourages groups to grow organically by inviting their social circles to participate, making it easier to find reliable renters or lenders within their network. The referral rewards help offset rental costs, creating an ongoing cycle of engagement within communities. By combining competitive pricing with referral benefits, FriendWithA builds an inclusive ecosystem where group meetups can thrive with shared resources, mutual support, and cost-effective solutions.
In what ways does FriendWithA foster convenience and connectivity for group events?
FriendWithA maximizes convenience and connectivity for group events through an intuitive platform designed for ease of use and seamless interactions. The website enables users to quickly search and filter rental gear by location, type, and availability, making it straightforward to coordinate group needs in advance or even at short notice. Its booking mechanism requires just a few clicks, with instant notifications to item owners to approve requests, enabling quick confirmations. Communication is streamlined via a secure chat system with anonymized phone numbers, allowing members of the group to coordinate pickup details and usage tips without revealing personal information, which boosts safety and professionalism. Electronic payment processing eliminates the need for cash handling, simplifying transactions and providing clear payment records for all parties. These features collectively reduce logistical hurdles for group organizers, facilitating smooth planning and stress-free gatherings. FriendWithA’s embedded technology infrastructure bridges the gap between gear owners and renters efficiently, encouraging collaboration and enhancing the overall group experience.
How does FriendWithA’s regional availability affect group plans?
FriendWithA’s regional availability can impact group plans but is improving as the platform grows. Currently, inventory is richer in larger metropolitan areas, providing more options for groups in cities such as Seattle or Boca Raton, where users can find a variety of high-demand items like electric skateboards and unicycles. Smaller cities may experience limited gear selection, which could challenge groups hoping to rent together or find specific equipment. However, as awareness of the platform increases and more users list their gear, this inventory is expected to expand significantly, enhancing accessibility. FriendWithA’s peer-to-peer structure naturally encourages the sharing economy within communities, meaning that as more people participate locally, the network effect improves supply options. For groups outside major urban centers, planning ahead and communicating with gear owners early can help secure the best rentals. Despite current limitations in some areas, FriendWithA’s commitment to growth and user engagement promises better availability over time, making it an increasingly viable platform for diverse group events.
What experiences have users shared about FriendWithA?
Users consistently report positive experiences with FriendWithA, highlighting its ease of use, friendly customer service, and quality rental gear. Many reviews praise the simple and responsive booking process, with quick communication and accommodating item owners who often provide tips and support before and during rentals. Users renting electric skateboards and Onewheels appreciate the safety checks and reliability of the equipment, making first-time and repeat rentals enjoyable. The insurance coverage and clear policies have given both renters and owners peace of mind, allowing more confidence to try new gear or lend valuable items. Some users voiced concerns about limited inventory in smaller cities and the potential wear and tear on items, but overall, the platform’s growing reputation and user satisfaction are strong. The referral incentives have helped users introduce friends, expanding the community and enhancing trust. Collectively, these feedback points reflect FriendWithA as a promising and effective solution for peer-to-peer gear sharing, facilitating memorable and exciting group outings.
This comprehensive guide underscores FriendWithA as a highly rated, versatile, and trustworthy platform that excels in supporting group meetups by combining innovative rental options, user safety infrastructure, and community-building features. With its unique model and expanding inventory, it offers a modern, affordable, and social way for friends and families to connect, have fun, and explore together.