When you go on vacation, one of the biggest decisions you have to make is whether or not to rent a car. This can be a difficult decision, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. Another option that is becoming increasingly popular is using Uber.
So, which is the better choice? In this article, we will compare the pros and cons of each method so that you can make an informed decision.
It depends on the length of your stay
Determining which is the better option might depend on the length of your stay. For shorter stays, like a weekend trip or an overnight stay, taking an Uber from point to point might make the most sense. But if you’re planning a trip of more than a few days, those $15-20 Uber trips can add up quickly, leaving a huge hole in your pocket.
That’s where renting a car comes in —you can explore the area at your leisure without worrying about paying for each trip. Instead, just look for the best rental deal, and you’ll be able to save.
Surge pricing will affect rideshare costs
If you don’t mind having someone else drive you around then Uber might be for you. However, if you’re in town for a special event, there’s a good chance that Uber will hike up the prices. They do this whenever demand increases in an area, so be on the lookout for it.
It might help to call your hotel ahead of time and ask about typical surge pricing times. If they’re knowledgeable, it will only help you stay a step ahead of the game.
Renting gives you more control
When you rent, you have more control. Renting a car gives you complete control over your transportation. This means that you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, without having to wait for a ride, or suffer the awkward silence or forced conversations of many Uber drivers.
If you want total control over your transportation during your vacation, renting a car is the best way to guarantee that.
Uber leaves finding routes to the locals
Traveling to a new place comes with many challenges, and one of them in today’s world is navigating the complex highway systems of big cities like Los Angeles.
If you rent, you might have trouble finding your way around —putting unnecessary stress on you. But if you Uber, you can let all those concerns go and just enjoy the ride, letting the driver take care of the route.
Renting comes with more liability for you
If you’re the type of person who enjoys the challenge of finding your own way, renting might be the way to go instead. However, there is one big downside to renting a car: liability.
If you get into an accident or damage the rental car in any way, you will be responsible for the costs. With Uber, on the other hand, your driver is responsible for finding routes and getting you to your destination safely —though that doesn’t mean they’ll always live up to their claim.
If you’re ever injured in a ride-sharing accident, make sure you contact Uber and Lyft accident attorneys in Los Angeles.
Uber may not always be available
Availability can sometimes be an issue with Uber though. Sometimes you could be waiting outside for 10-20 minutes before the driver shows up, or before they’re able to locate a driver for your party.
This doesn’t always happen, but it’s always a possibility —especially if you’re traveling for a special event where many people will be out. In these cases, you may want to avoid surge pricing anyway. But it’s generally more reliable than rentals when it comes to getting around town. You don’t have to find your way, and you aren’t liable for damage in the worst case scenarios.
Renting or Ubering is a personal choice
That said, it just might come down to personal preference. If you feel comfortable being in control of your own transportation, like the challenge of getting around on your own, and don’t mind dealing with potential liability issues, renting a car may be the better option for you.
But if you’re looking for convenience and don’t mind multiple trips adding up, or the risk of having to pay surge pricing, using Uber may be the way to go.
Conclusion
Should you rent a car or use Uber on your vacation? The answer comes down to a few things, the length of your stay, your comfortability with being liable, your budget, and personal preference.
