If you’ve ever opened your ride-hailing app and seen prices skyrocket, you’re not alone. Whether you’re calling a cab or booking an Uber, timing your ride can make a huge difference in fare pricing. Surge pricing, traffic conditions, and rider demand all influence the final cost—so knowing when to ride can help you avoid inflated fares and save money.
Here’s how to catch a taxi or rideshare at the right time and avoid paying more than necessary.
Avoid These High-Surge Times
Ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Lyft use dynamic pricing algorithms that raise fares during high-demand periods. Taxis in some cities may also add congestion surcharges.
Common peak periods include:
- Weekday Rush Hours: 7–9 AM and 4–7 PM (especially in business districts)
- Weekend Nights: Friday and Saturday from 8 PM to 2 AM
- Weather Events: Rain, snow, or extreme heat drives up demand
- Holidays & Major Events: Concerts, parades, sports games, and airport rushes often cause localized surges
Best Times to Ride Without a Price Spike
- Late Mornings (10 AM to 12 PM): After the morning rush, before lunch traffic
- Early Afternoons (1–3 PM): Low demand and steady pricing
- Weeknights (after 7:30 PM, before the evening rush resumes on weekends)
- Early Weekends (Saturday or Sunday mornings): Great time to ride before leisure demand kicks in
Plan Around Weather and Local Events
Use local event calendars and weather apps to predict surge zones. Apps like Waze or Google Maps also show real-time traffic congestion, which can indicate likely fare hikes. Avoiding major event venues when exiting a concert or game can save you significantly.
Use Fare Estimators in Advance
Before booking, check the fare using:
- Uber’s Fare Estimator
- Lyft’s Pricing Tool
- Curb’s App for taxis in supported cities
Stack Savings with Gift Cards and Cashback
Even if you’re booking during off-peak times, you can save more by paying with gift cards. Platforms like Fluz let you buy Uber gift cards online and earn instant cashback. If Uber gift cards are temporarily unavailable, you can still pay using a Fluz virtual debit card through Apple Pay or Google Pay.
