Your Weekend Just Got Easier: Here’s How to Score a Free Uber Ride
No matter how divided our society is these days, I think we can all agree on this: Uber is the best thing that ever happened to our Friday nights.
And now, everyone’s favorite ride-summoning service has teamed up with Google Maps to make your weekend plans even simpler. On both Android and iOS devices, you can now request an Uber directly from Google Maps — no switching between apps required.
Plus, for a limited time, Uber is offering a $15 credit when you try ordering your ride through this new feature in Google Maps.
How Do You Order an Uber With Google Maps?
First, make sure that both your Uber and Google Maps apps are up to date.
Next, open your Google Maps app and select your route like you normally would.
Then, swipe right on the transportation icons at the top of the screen until you see the stick figure holding a briefcase. (He’s the guy who looks like he’s hailing a cab after a very important stick figure meeting).
A bar will pop up at the bottom of the screen showing price and time estimates for the closest drivers. It will look a little different from the Uber interface, but it’s still the same process — just choose your preferred vehicle type and hit “Request.”
This will bring up a payment screen where you can either select the card you have on file or choose another payment method.
Finally, hit the “Book” button — and then wait awkwardly on the corner attempting to flag down every third car while you suddenly realize just how many white Hondas there are in this world.
Simplifying the Process
Everything you used to do in the Uber app you can now do in Google Maps (you can even contact your driver or cancel your ride directly through the Maps app) without the added hassle of searching for the address in Maps before plugging it into Uber.
If you want to leave your driver a review, however, you’ll still have to navigate to the Uber app. (And you should, because good reviews help good drivers stay in business.)
And if you’re looking for a new side gig to help you bring in some extra cash, consider becoming an Uber driver yourself!
Your Turn: How will you use your $15 Uber credit this weekend?
Grace Schweizer is a junior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
