10 Things Every Uber & Lyft Driver Needs In Their Car
Whether you’re trying to make some cash on the side or working full-time as an Uber or Lyft driver, it pays to be prepared for a variety of situations you might find on the road.
Here’s a list of the top 10 things every Uber and Lyft driver should have in their car.
1. Phone Mount
A phone mount should be a staple for all Lyft and Uber drivers.
Having a phone mount allows you to keep your phone in front of you without having to look at your lap every 30 seconds, or hold the phone directly in your hand. Not only are you able to safely see where you are going, but you also have easy, one touch access to your phone to accept new rides or communicate with passengers.
Plus, a hands-free device is required by law in some states. Also, not having a phone mount is one of the leading reasons why Lyft and Uber passengers give low ratings to drivers.
Not only does having a phone mount allow you to drive safely, and can also actually boost your ratings.
Passengers like to be able to see the directions that you’re following and know that your eyes are on the road.
There are a number of different types of phone mounts that attach to your air conditioner vents, your window, or your vehicle cupholders.
Whether you prefer a cradle phone mount or a magnetic mount, be sure to get a phone mount if you’re driving for Lyft or Uber.
2. Car Charger & Charging Cable
Obviously, you’ll need a working car charger and charging cable for your own smartphone if you plan on working for Lyft or Uber. Having one if you drive for Doordash or Postmates works is a good idea too.
However, you should consider purchasing an additional cable to offer passengers who may need to charge their phone. It’s a relatively inexpensive one time expense that can result in more happy passengers.
You can purchase a car charger with multiple USB ports and keep charging cables for Android and Apple phones on hand in case a passenger’s phone is dying and they need to recharge.
3. Emesis Bags
Though it’s not something we like to think about, occasionally passengers will get sick in your car.
This can really put a damper on your night if you aren’t prepared to handle this situation. Emesis bags, or vomit bags, help keep the mess contained. These come in handy for Uber and Lyft drivers, especially those who are working in college towns or areas with a lot of nightlife traffic.
4. First Aid Kit
Every driver should have a first aid kit in their car, whether they are working for Uber, Lyft or a delivery service like Postmates or Doordah.
Though you will most likely not have to use your first aid kit much, it’s nice to have in case of emergencies – even if it just means that you can offer your passenger a band aid for their paper cut. You can pick up a first aid kit at any pharmacy or on Amazon.
5. LED Flashlight
Having an LED flashlight in your car is a must for those who drive Uber and Lyft at night time.
If you are having car trouble or need help seeing street signs when driving in a neighborhood, a large, LED flashlight with fresh batteries is a necessity. The flashlight is also helpful for illuminating the car seat when a passenger drops something. While most phones have a camera light that doubles as a flashlight, a standalone led flashlight in your center console is often a more convenient opiton.
6. Tire Pressure Gauge and Tire Inflator
A tire pressure gauge and tire inflator are two relatively inexpensive tools that can make a world of difference during your rideshare shift.
When it gets cold outside, your tire pressure will start to dip, and it’s important for you to ensure that your tires are filled to the recommended level to stay safe on the roads.
A tire pressure gauge helps you ensure that your tires are at the correct PSI, while a tire inflator runs off of your cigarette lighter adapter, allowing you to refill your tires. Both of these devices will certainly come in handy when your tire pressure starts to dip.
7. Spare Tire or Flat Kit
Whether you’ve got a passenger in your car or you’re on your way to pick up a passenger, a flat tire can ruin your whole night as a rideshare driver. Make sure that you have a spare tire or a flat kit in your vehicle at all times and that you know how to use it. You can pick these up at an auto parts store.
8. Jumper Cables or Portable Battery Jump Pack
Random car battery issues can happen at any time, especially during the winter.
This can spell disaster for Uber and Lyft drivers who need their car in working order if they want to make money.
Jumper cables and/or a portable battery jump pack can come in handy when your car fails to start. Also, many jump packs come with a built-in compressor, which works wonders when you need to inflate your tires but aren’t near a gas station. You can purchase these items at any auto parts store.
9. Latex Gloves
Latex gloves are great to have on hand for emergencies. They can help keep the grease off your hands if you are having car issues and need to look under the hood.
They are also a must if you are cleaning up vomit or other debris from your vehicle. These can be purchased at the pharmacy or through Amazon.
10. Water
If you’re working a long shift, it’s important to stay hydrated so that you can remain focused and alert.
Water is also a good thing to have on hand for passengers when it’s hot out. Whether they’re dehydrated from a night on the town or just looking for a little refreshment before they get to their destination, your passengers will appreciate having bottled water on hand.
