NEWS - Are you tired of being hit with exorbitant Uber fees for airport pickups and drop-offs? A recent TikTok video by user Liv Engstrom sheds light on a pricing strategy that could be costing you big bucks. Liv reveals how she saved $33 by simply walking down the street to the Hilton Garden Inn for an Uber pickup instead of hailing a ride from the airport. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the alleged pricing strategy and share tips on how to save money on transportation while traveling.
If you’re a regular on TikTok, you’ve likely stumbled on this video that’s been making waves, titled “Uber, I’m on to you.” In the video, the author is trekking through the snow, bundled up in ear muffs and a heavy coat. There’s very little in the background but a few airport directional signs. In the video, she drops a shocking bomb about Uber’s pricing strategy.
Tear your Uber prices in half - or more!
How To Save On Uber At PWM Airport, Maine: Tips From A TikTok Sensation
TikTok’r Liv Engstrom reveals that she’s saving a whopping $33 by walking down the street to the Hilton Garden Inn for an Uber pickup instead of hailing a ride from the airport. “$40 to pick me up here and drive me a mile to my house”, she says in the video, puffing out cold air in outrage, “ or I can walk to the Hilton Garden Inn and have the Uber drop me off at my house, $7…” She alleges that Uber charges an exorbitant fee for airport pickups and dropoffs. This is why she is walking a little further away from the airport to save money.
@olivia.engstrom @uber I’m on to you #travelhack #travelhacks #savemoney #uber #airports #travel #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #viral ♬ Uber Hack - Liv Engstrom
Unlock the Mystery: Uber’s Pricing Strategy at Airports
One commenter on the video suggested that the high airport fees charged by Uber might be because the airport itself imposes a surcharge on drivers. This can happen at many airports around the world, where commercial drivers have to pay a fee just to enter the airport grounds. So this fee is passed on to passengers in the form of higher fares.
Another contributing factor to Uber’s pricing strategy may be the company’s algorithm for matching drivers and passengers. During peak travel times or when major events are happening in the area, this can create more ride requests than there are drivers. When this happens Uber’s surge pricing kicks in, resulting in significantly higher fares.
Savvy Travel Tips: How to Save Money On The Road
The TikTok video about Uber sparks the question of the best ways to save money while on the road. One clever traveler checks out the Uber route beforehand. Then he will walk a few blocks to avoid forcing the Uber to backtrack or drive down one-way streets. This saves him a lot of cash. Others admit to taking free hotel shuttles to hail their Uber from there instead of the airport - it’s cheaper! You can leave a big event a little early to hail your Uber before everyone else to avoid surge pricing.
Maximizing Travel Budget: Why Planning Ahead Pays Off
Ultimately, the best way to save money while traveling is to plan ahead and do your research. By checking the price of travel from a nearby hotel, TikTok’r Liv Engstrom saved $33! Compare prices for different transport options and book hotels and flights in advance. Keep an eye out for deals and promotions. Being savvy about your travel expenses will help you enjoy your trip without burning a hole in your pocket.
Top Tips For Saving On Transportation While Traveling
The “Uber, I’m on to you” TikTok video has struck a chord with travelers who are tired of feeling ripped off by high transport fees. By walking a little further away from the airport - admittedly not possible at many airports - Liv was able to save herself $33. This is a lesson people are taking to heart. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it pays to be aware of what you’re spending. Don’t let the costs add up before you look for ways to save money wherever you can!
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