How He Makes Money Driving with Uber on The Side

Have you ever thought about driving with Uber to make money? Driving with Uber is one of many side hustles you can do to increase your earnings.

Ryan Begin has been driving with Uber for over two years. He’s sharing his experience as a driver and telling you how you can earn driving on the Uber app.

Why Did You Decide to Drive with Uber?

For my full-time job, I work for the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, a high-end luxury resort and spa in the North Scottsdale area. I’ve been working there for over 2.5 years in their guest services department in transportation, and I love working with the new people I meet there.

I wanted to make some extra money. Driving with Uber seemed like the logical choice since I enjoy driving.

In addition, I like that you can drive when you want since the Uber app is available 24/7. I can use the Uber app to sign in and out anytime I’d like. In other words, I can make my own schedule.

Plus, I like that riders have the option to tip drivers. Typically, better service results in better tips. Knowing that gives me some control over my earnings.

How to Earn With Uber

Here are a few of the lessons I’ve learned about how to help maximize earnings with Uber.

Offer Free Water and Snacks

Offering water and snacks to your riders may help you earn five-star ratings and increase your tips. I usually just offer small bottles of water and snack-size crackers, chips or candies.

Even offering hard candies like mints helps. It makes riders feel appreciated.

Treat Riders Like They Matter

I’ve had riders give feedback that they appreciate when I treat them like they matter. For example, I get out and open the door for them. Or, if they have extra bags, I load them into the back of my car.

I also dress and act professionally. Beyond that, I try to make conversation with the rider by asking them questions about themselves.

At the same time, I try to recognize and follow suit if a client seems like they’re not interested in chatting. Being personable and respectful will help you become a highly-rated driver and earn better tips.

Pay Attention to Promotions

Uber charges higher prices to riders when there are fewer drivers in the area. Higher rider prices could mean extra earnings for drivers.

To take advantage of opportunities to earn more, ignore busy hot spots (like after a sports game ends) and take the less popular fare opportunities since these can sometimes come with rewards or extra earnings.

Keep Your Car Sparkling Clean

Riders love it when they’re picked up in a well-kept car. Keep yours in great shape inside and out.

Drive During Busy Hours

Overnights and early morning hours tend to be busy hours to drive and can help you earn the most money. This is because traditional side hustlers are catching up on sleep to work their regular jobs.

How Do You Fit Uber Around Your Job Schedule?

My work schedule is from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, so I usually drive with Uber during the mornings on weekdays. Then, I drive during the weekend hours when I’m available.

The morning and early afternoon hours are great for driving because a lot of the trips are longer runs, like trips to the airport. I usually hang out around the local spas and resorts because there are a lot of people needing rides to the airport from the resorts.

Find the spots and times in your area that are high-demand but have few available drivers. Airport runs are usually popular.

Uber has a downloadable app that you can turn on and off depending on when you’re available. This lets you drive with Uber when you want so that you can work around your part or full-time job schedule.

Why Did You Choose Uber Over Other Side Hustles?

There are lots of great side hustle opportunities out there. I chose Uber for several reasons.

First, I like driving around. Second, I enjoy people. Third, I liked that I could make my own schedule. I can sign in and out of the Uber app whenever I want. 

Finally, I have control over my earnings. I do what I can to earn good tips, and I work to find the best-paying fares in my area.

Delivering with Uber Eats

Maybe driving people around doesn’t seem appealing to you. You can still make money with Uber by delivering with Uber Eats.

Drivers with Uber Eats get paid to deliver meal orders to customers. Just like with Uber, you can choose the hours you work. And just like with Uber, customers have the option to tip drivers.

Check out Uber Eats to see if you might want to make money by delivering food.

Summary

There’s money to be made driving with Uber. In the right location and by following the tips above, you could make cash to help meet your financial goals.