How to save on long-distance rideshare in 2026

Long-distance Ubers can run $2–$4 per mile. There's a much cheaper way if you're flexible on time and willing to share the car.

Share the car, split the cost
The single biggest lever is shared seats. A driver already making a 500-mile trip has 3 empty seats. Filling them cuts each rider's cost by 60–75% versus a solo Uber, and the driver still comes out ahead.

Bid on driver-posted routes
On QuestERide, drivers post their route and a fair per-seat price. Riders bid. Off-peak days (Tues–Thurs) and flexible pickup windows almost always beat weekend surge pricing.

Book early
Drivers list routes days or weeks in advance. Booking early gets you the low end of the price range; last-minute bookings pay the premium.

Batch your errands
If you're moving, visiting family, and picking up an item all in the same city, one long-distance ride beats three separate trips.