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How to Save Money on Uber and Lyft
The day of the traditional cab is now being monopolized by new car services that you can manage right from your smart phone. While crazy beneficial, they can also become crazy expensive. Using a car service app like Uber or Lyft can be easy and convenient; however, it’s a different story when you check your bank statement and realize those relatively small fares add up, fast. Reduce the financial heartache using the tips and tricks listed below to help you from blowing your paycheck while somebody else is behind the wheel.
Split the fare
If you are requesting a ride for you and your friends, don’t be afraid to ask to split the fare amongst the group. Some of the car service apps even have a feature that will allow you to split the fare with the other riders in the car. You could also use a payment app like Venmo to split the costs. If you are taking an Uber or Lyft by yourself and are comfortable enough, there are even options to share the car with a stranger who the car would also pick up. Their pickup and drop off will be en-route to your final destination. This may be out of your comfort zone, but it is an easy way to help save money when you plan on getting a car to yourself.
Take advantage of discounts
Many of the car service apps offer discounts for you and your friends. You are able to send your friends a small discount code. If they use your Uber discount code, or Lyft discount code, you will both save money. Most programs let you both get a discount code for your next ride. Take advantage of the discounts and send them to every single person in your contacts! It is a great way to help you and your friends save money. We have a similar program for our customers. They can use our 20/20 Referral Program.
Cheat the system
Car service apps are always looking for new customers and want them to be loyal. What does this mean for you? Companies are typically offering a huge discount for first-time customers. If you already have an account, create another account using another email to receive your first ride free for some companies or to receive a major discount. Obviously, you can only have so many emails, so I would suggest using this method for fares that you know are going to be high. Bonus idea: send yourself your discount code when creating a new account. Your savings go even further that way.
Go old school
One option to save money is to not use car service apps like Uber and Lyft all together. Problem solved, right?! Most major cities offer public transportation that is inexpensive. Check to see if your city has a bus, trolley, or even subway system. You might have to walk a little, but these forms of commute are usually much cheaper than a private ride. Depending upon the city, it can change the reliability or safety of these transports. So, use your best judgment. Many times it will only cost you a couple dollars for the day and you are able to take multiple rides back and forth to different places.
Ride with friends
Instead of taking public transportation or even getting an Uber or Lyft, consider seeing if any of your friends can give you a ride. Offer to pay gas money. Some friends will take you up on your offer, and some friends will give you a ride for free. Either way, you could end up saving a lot of money this way. For the most part, this is a good plan. The only time this is not a good plan is if the driver is under the influence. Never drive under the influence. Getting an Uber instead might cost a little in the moment, but it will always cost less than having to pay medical bills, a lawsuit, or a ticket. Saving money on transportation is important, but driving responsibly is more important.
Hopefully this guide has helped show you how to optimize transportation costs. Do you have other advice on how to save money on transportation costs? Comment below and let us know!