5 Ways to Pay Less for Uber Rides

🔎 Disclosure: Heads up, babe: some links here are affiliate links, which means you might throw a tiny commission my way if you buy (zero extra cost to you). Only things you’d actually use and love get shared on this site.

1. Use Uber One Membership to Save on Frequent Rides

If you take Uber a few times a week, this membership pays for itself fast.

You save automatically on every trip, and the perks add up faster than you think.

You get:

• 5% off most rides, which adds up quickly over time.
  
• Exclusive deals and promotions for members only.
  
• Free delivery on Uber Eats, perfect for busy nights when cooking isn’t happening.
  

👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Open your Uber app, tap “Uber One,” and subscribe for a month to test how much you save.

2. Avoid Surge Pricing Hours When Possible

You’ve seen it. that little lightning bolt next to the price that makes your jaw drop.

That’s surge pricing, and it can easily double your fare without warning.

Here’s how you beat it:

• Ride before or after rush hour, not during it.
  
• Check the fare difference every 10 minutes. It usually drops.
  
• Use fare alerts or apps that track local surge times to plan better.
  

👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Check your app right before confirming the ride and wait five minutes if it looks high. It usually evens out.

3. Always Use “Wait & Save” Option

If you’re not in a rush, this one’s gold.

You pick the cheaper ride and wait just a few extra minutes. It’s that simple.

Here’s what makes it worth it:

• Lower fares, sometimes up to 40% less than standard rides.
  
• Same drivers, just less rush and lower cost.
  
• Perfect for errands, grocery runs, or quick local trips.
  

👉 Here's How You'll Do It: When booking, tap “Wait & Save” instead of “UberX” and grab a snack while you wait.

Make It Easy: Try a reusable water bottle with time markers so you stay hydrated while waiting. Two wins in one.

4. Use Promo Codes and Points Apps Every Time You Book

You’d be surprised how many promo codes go unused.

It’s like walking past free money, and you’re better than that.

Save more each ride by:

• Checking your email or Uber’s “Promotions” tab before booking.
  
• Stacking cashback from points apps, like Rakuten or Honey.
  
• Using credit card rewards that give you points on rideshares.
  

👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Search “Uber promo” before your ride or check your app’s wallet for available discounts.

Make It Easy: Link your account with Capital One Shopping to automatically apply coupons and cashback when you book rides online.

5. Avoid Unnecessary Wait-Time Charges by Being Ready Early

Every minute your driver waits, your wallet cries a little.

Those small wait fees can sneak up faster than you realize.

Avoid them easily by:

• Requesting your ride only when you’re outside and ready.
  
• Turning on location services so your driver finds you faster.
  
• Meeting your driver at the best pickup point to save time.
  

👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Order your ride when your shoes are on, bag in hand, and you’re actually ready to walk out.

Make It Easy: Keep a key and wallet tray near your door to grab everything fast before you order.

📌 SAVE IT FOR LATER! 📌