You just got off the plane in a new city. You have your bags and need to get to your hotel.
But wait – how do you get there? The taxi line is super long, and you don’t know how the buses work.
This happens to lots of travelers every day. But there’s an easy fix that most people don’t think about.
What Is Uber?
Let’s start with the basics. Uber is an app on your phone that gets you rides. Here’s how it works: you open the app, tell it where you want to go, and a driver comes to pick you up. You don’t need cash because the app pays the driver for you.
The best part for travelers? Uber works the same way everywhere. Whether you’re in New York, Paris, or Tokyo, the app looks and works the same.
This makes it much easier than trying to figure out local buses or talking to taxi drivers when you don’t speak their language.
Why Uber Can Be Better Than Taxis
Don’t get us wrong – taxis aren’t bad. They’ve been helping people get around cities for decades.
But here’s the problem: in some countries, taxi drivers charge tourists way more than they charge local people. They might take longer routes or add extra fees that locals know to avoid.
From personal experience, I’ve seen an uber charge us twice as soon as started speaking English instead of the local language.
With Uber, you get a fixed price before you even get in the car. The app tells you exactly how much your ride will cost. No surprises, no arguments, and no worrying about being overcharged because you’re a tourist.
Plus, you can see your driver’s route on your phone, so you know they’re taking you the right way.
Uber Isn’t Everywhere
Here’s what many people don’t know: Uber doesn’t work in every city. It works in more than 70 countries and hundreds of cities, but it’s not everywhere.
You might find Uber in big cities like London or Mexico City, but not in smaller towns nearby.
Some countries don’t allow Uber at all. Others let it work but only during certain hours or in certain areas.
This is why you need to check before you travel.
How to Check if Uber Works Where You’re Going
Good news – checking if Uber works in your destination takes less than two minutes.
Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Get the Uber App Download the Uber app on your phone. It’s free and works on both iPhones and Android phones. You don’t need to make an account yet if you’re just checking.
Step 2: Find the Location Bar Open the app and look at the top of your screen. You’ll see a bar that shows your current location. Select it and scroll to the bottom until you see ” Search In A different city”
Step 3: Type in Your Destination Tap that bar and type in the city you’re visiting. Be specific – instead of just “France,” type “Paris, France”.
Step 4: Look at the Map Enter a real location. I recommend entering the airport since that’ll give you an estimation ofthe cost when you land.
If Uber works there, you’ll see a map with little car icons. These show where drivers are.
Even if no drivers are working right now, you’ll still see the map, which means Uber is available.
If Uber doesn’t work there, you’ll get an error message or see a blank screen.
If you’re more a visual learner, I’ve created a video to show this process.
What to Do When Uber Isn’t Available
If your destination doesn’t have Uber, don’t worry. You have other options:
Other Ride Apps: Many countries have their own ride apps. Grab works in Southeast Asia, Didi is popular in China and Latin America, and Ola is big in India. These apps work like Uber and might even be cheaper.
Regular Taxis: Taxis still exist everywhere and can be a good option. Just remember what we said earlier – some might try to overcharge tourists. Research normal prices before you go, and try to learn a few words in the local language.
Buses and Trains: Many cities have great public transportation. It’s usually the cheapest option and can be really efficient. Apps like Citymapper can help you figure out how to use local buses and trains.
Hotel Rides: Many hotels can arrange rides for their guests. This usually costs more, but it’s helpful if you’re arriving late at night or feeling overwhelmed.
Save Money on Your First Uber Rides
If you’ve never used Uber before, you’re in luck. New users usually get big discounts on their first few rides. Right now, new users can get 50% off their first two rides with this discount code. These deals change, so check what’s available when you sign up.
Don’t create your account until you actually need a ride. These discount codes usually expire after a certain time, so timing matters.
Tips for Using Uber in Other Countries
When you use Uber abroad, remember these helpful hints:
Make sure your phone can get internet either through international data or WiFi. Uber needs internet to work.
Prices can be very different in different countries. A ride that costs $10 in one city might cost $3 or $30 in another city.
Some countries might ask you to verify your phone number or provide extra information when you sign up. This might take extra time, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Why This Matters
Checking if Uber works before you travel is a simple step that can save you lots of stress. It only takes two minutes, but it can save you hours of confusion when you arrive.
The goal isn’t just getting from the airport to your hotel. When you know how transportation works in a new city, you can explore more freely. You can visit cool places that aren’t in guidebooks and feel more confident getting around.
The Bottom Line
Next time you plan a trip, check your transportation options just like you book your flight and hotel. Research whether Uber works in your destination, or figure out what other options you have.
Your future self will thank you. Instead of standing confused at the airport, you’ll know exactly how to get where you need to go. Travel should be fun and exciting, not stressful and confusing. A little planning goes a long way.
Remember: whether you use Uber, local ride apps, or taxis, knowing your options helps you travel smarter and with more confidence.