We may not have finished our holiday shopping in September, but we're still committed to being proactive this holiday season. There is nothing worse than having a trunk's worth of gifts and Figgy pudding, and no trunk to put them in. First things first, reserve your holiday Zipcars now to make sure you get the car you want at the location you want. Whether you need a coupe to impress the potential in-laws, an SUV for hauling gifts, or just a little something safe for the long drive, now is the time to prepare to arrive in style. Get out the calendar and visit the reservation page to get started.

As the New Year dawns (and no, we can't believe it either), we've got a resolution for you: reduce or eliminate the potential out-of-pocket costs associated with accidents. No, it's not dropping ten pounds or kicking a bad habit, but it only takes a few seconds and it could make a big difference. If you're not familiar with the accident policy, it goes a little something like this: should you ever get in an accident, you could be responsible for a damage fee of up to $500. It's not chump change, but buying a $50 damage fee waiver could dramatically reduce that cost. For $75, your damage fee goes to $0. All waivers are good for one year from the date of purchase. Learn more here.

December isn't all about giving to others. Occasionally doing good can turn right around and pat you on the back. When you refer a friend during the month of December, you can earn up to $75 in driving credit. You can keep the credit all for yourself, give it all away (you little merry maker), or split it even-steven up the middle. All credits are good for six months, but your buddy must sign up before January 1, 2009. There is no better way to ring in the New Year than with a little drive time. Visit zipcar.com/referafriend to start cashing in.

Mooches may deserve coal, but there's no better way to teach them a lesson than by giving them their own Zipcard. Guess who's catching a ride to the outlets now? You.  For all the folks on your list—mother, father, sister, brother, co-workers—the best gift this season is the gift that keeps on driving. No matter the amount, everyone on your list will appreciate a little Zip this season. Visit zipcar.com/gift to start checking people off your list.

here comes the...

... website! It's finally here. Well, almost. We're unveiling the new zipcar.com very soon, but we're giving our loyal members a sneak preview right here. Don't worry, everything (i.e. making a reservation, checking your invoice, etc.) will still work exactly the same way. We're just doing this to create a more consistent experience across the site as a whole. We're really excited about the new site, mostly because we think it reflects the community that Zipcar has become. It's also an on-going project that we hope you'll take part in. We're always looking for real stories about members and their Zipcar experiences—especially when you have a photo or two to share. If we use your story or picture on the site (or anywhere else) we'll give you a little driving credit at as a thank you. Send your stories, thoughts and pictures to share@zipcar.com.

• 671 N. Clark—Civic Chandler

We know a really Keen way to save some money on a gift for your favorite footwear fan. Keen Footwear is offering Zipsters $10 off their next purchase of footwear, bags, and socks at keenfootwear.com. Check out the site and enter promo code ZIPCAR08 at checkout to receive your discount. Offer expires December 31, 2008.

Monarch's Heaven, at 3326 N. Lincoln Ave in Lakeview, carries all of your olfactory needs this holiday season.  Give the gift of pleasant aromas!  They have candles, aromatherapy products, bath and body products, scented room diffusers and much, much more.  When you flash your Zipcard you'll receive 10% off of all in-store purchases of regularly priced items.

Located in the heart of the Lakeview / Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Locker Room Essentials is just that ... the essentials of footwear, apparel, and accessories in top name brands.  Their products are great for running, working out, walking, or simple everyday wear.  They understand that you've increased your walking and biking since joining Zipcar so they've offered a Zipcar discount.  Just flash your Zipcard and you'll receive 15% off of all in-store purchases on regularly priced items.

Everyone's wallet's a little lighter these days as a result of the economy. And it's always nice to save a few extra dollars around the holidays. Zipcar wants to do its part to help out. From now through March 29, 2009, we're lowering weekend daily rates on the entire fleet by $5 in Chicago. Maybe you can factor in a couple more visits to mom and dad, or plan an extra getaway, or perhaps this is the year you drive to the outlets to return last year's gift from Aunt Phyllis. Make your weekend reservation now.