Considering the following points may make your ride much more enjoyable.

• The pick up point: Make certain that everyone knows where you will meet. It may be in town, at a Park and Ride lot, or at your house or apartment.
• Punctuality: Determine an amount of time that you will wait for a late rideshare partner, 3-5 minutes is a standard wait time.
• In car behavior: Establish smoking and eating policies at the beginning of a trip.
• Who drives: Settle on who is driving and on which days. Alternating who drives will make gas expenses equal, but in the case that one person feels most comfortable as a passenger or a driver, make clear how much money each is expected to contribute towards gas and toll expenses.
• The vehicle: How is the vehicle equipped? Can it function in snow? Is it fuel-efficient? Driving the most fuel-efficient vehicle that you and your rideshare partners own will further increase your savings and reduce the carbon footprint of your trip.
• Frequency: Make clear how often the carpool runs. This might be a one-time trip, a bi-weekly commute, or an everyday drive.
• Stopping: Discuss any planned stops at the grocery, bookstore etc.
• Driving ability: Be aware if all passengers and drivers have a valid license. Also, consider asking them how comfortable they are driving in icy conditions. If one of your rideshare partners is not a licensed driver, who will drive in an emergency or when the usual driver is unable?
• Contact Information: Exchange contact information (phone and email) with carpool partners and explain the best way for them to contact you. This way, if something unexpected happens and the usual driver cannot drive, everyone can be notified.