Are you someone who travels long distances for your drone or photography work and is interested in ridesharing? Do you spend 30 minutes, an hour, or even more driving to get to your appointment or job? Well, did you know that you could be earning some serious additional income during these ‘empty’ miles by utilizing ridesharing services?
You might be wondering, what happens if you get sent in the wrong direction or have to wait for the passenger for too long? Both Uber and Lyft have features that can help you with this. Uber has the Destination Filter feature while Lyft has the Destination Mode feature. These features allow you to filter out only ride requests that are heading towards your destination, which reduces the risk of getting a ride request to the wrong city or providence.
How much can I earn?
Now, you might be curious about how much you can earn with these methods. It’s important to note that there are many factors that can affect your earnings, such as your market and proximity to nearby markets. However, some people have reported earning anywhere from $40 to $100 in fares (including tips) by giving rides from their county area town to the busy Lyft/Uber market. Starting your day with a $40+ ride from outside Madison, Wisconsin and ending up at the core of Madison or the Dane County Regional Airport can be priceless.
If you end up getting a ride to the airport and have some extra time, it’s worth checking if the airport has any bonuses available. This could easily earn you an extra $7-20+ on top of the fares itself.
When driving through town, I’ve found that taking more densely populated routes can increase your chances of picking up a rider along the way to your destination.
Uber also has an advantage when your passenger is 5 miles or further from your location. They will compensate you for picking up these further rides, which can really boost your earnings.
It’s worth noting that Uber tends to allow you to keep the destination feature on for much longer compared to Lyft. With Lyft, you’re limited to approximately 30 minutes before it logs you off the platform while waiting for these sorts of trips. However, if you accept all requests on the Lyft platform, you will stay online indefinitely.
NOTE: It’s highly recommended that you enable the destination feature 1-2 hours before you need to leave. This will increase your chances of getting a ride request and ensure that you won’t be late for your appointment.
UBER – Destination Filter Directions
Here are the steps to enable the destination feature on the Uber Driver app:
- Open the Uber Driver app on your supported Android or Apple device.
- Tap on the search button in the upper left-hand corner of the app.
- Enter the address, city or landmark of your destination.
- You will now see a recommended route to your destination and all of your ride requests will be filtered only to take you in this direction.
LYFT – Destination Mode Directions
Here are the steps to enable the destination mode on the Lyft Driver app:
- Open the Lyft Driver app on your supported Android or Apple device.
- Tap on the switch icon in the upper right-hand corner of the app.
- This will bring up the option to filter rides, which you are allowed a total of 6 per day.
- Tap on the ‘Next’ button.
- Enter the address, city or landmark of your destination.
- Tap on the ‘Set Filter’ button and you’re all set!
Sign Up To Drive for Uber
If you’re interested in becoming an Uber driver, one important thing to keep in mind is the significance of having a referral code. This code is necessary to be eligible for bonuses and guarantees as a new driver, so it’s crucial to make sure you have one before signing up.
An Uber sign-up bonus is a financial incentive that the company offers to new drivers who sign up using a referral code. This bonus can be a great way to supplement your income and earn extra money as you begin your career as an Uber driver. However, it’s important to note that the bonus amount may vary depending on your location and the current demand for drivers in your area.
Not only can the referral code offer you the opportunity to earn bonuses and guarantees, but it also provides a benefit to the driver who referred you. They may receive a bonus or commission for referring you, which can be a win-win situation for both parties.
In summary, having a referral code is essential for anyone who wants to become an Uber driver and take advantage of the company’s sign-up bonuses and guarantees. Make sure you do your research and find a reliable referral code to maximize your earnings as a new driver.
Sign up today as a driver in Madison or Milwaukee and start earning. Terms apply.
Sign Up To Drive for Lyft
If you’re a rideshare driver looking to maximize your earnings, signing up for both Uber and Lyft can be a smart move. Not only does this increase your chances of getting ride requests, but it also provides you with more flexibility and options when it comes to choosing which rides to accept.
By signing up for Lyft in addition to Uber, you can double your chances of getting a ride request to your desired destination. This is because both platforms have their own features that allow you to filter ride requests based on your destination. For example, Uber has the Destination feature and Lyft has the Destination Mode. By using these features, you can ensure that you’re only accepting ride requests that are heading in the same direction as your destination. This can save you time and money on gas by reducing the number of empty miles you drive.
In addition to the increased chances of getting ride requests, signing up for both platforms also provides you with more options when it comes to choosing which rides to accept. You can compare the rates and demand on both platforms and choose the ride that makes the most sense for your schedule and earnings goals. Additionally, by diversifying your income streams, you can protect yourself from fluctuations in demand or changes in one platform’s policies.
It’s important to keep in mind that signing up for both Uber and Lyft does require some additional effort, such as maintaining two driver accounts and familiarizing yourself with the features of both platforms. However, the potential benefits can be worth it for those looking to maximize their earnings and provide a better experience for their passengers.
Sign up today as a driver in Madison or Milwaukee and start earning. Terms apply.
Get Rewarded for Your Uber and Lyft Rides with Freebird App
- Freebird is a free app that rewards you for taking Uber and Lyft rides.
- Connect your accounts and earn cash back and points through Freebird while being charged as usual by Uber and Lyft.
- Get paid to go out by linking your payment card and taking advantage of cash back deals at local bars and restaurants.
- Safe ride options available through major brand partners.
- Earn points on every Uber and Lyft ride you take, redeemable for cash.
To receive $10 in free credits, download the app at https://my.fbird.co/vQdFmAqBfX and enter my promo code n9046 before taking your first ride.
Simply write your promo code on these free business cards and include them with your orders to provide excellent service to your passengers and boost your earnings.
Download the Freebird app today on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Where do I enter the n9046 code in the Freebird App?
In the app, click Profile > Promo Codes, then enter the n9046 code and click Submit.
Final Thoughts
The Destination feature on Uber and the Destination Mode on Lyft can be incredibly useful for drivers who want to optimize their routes and earn more money. By setting your destination before accepting ride requests, you can filter out rides that aren’t heading in the same direction as your destination. This can help you avoid wasting time and gas on rides that take you in the opposite direction.
These features can be particularly helpful if you’re using your vehicle for other purposes, such as running errands or visiting friends. For example, if you’re on your way to visit a friend who lives in a different part of town, you can set your destination on the app and accept ride requests that are heading in that direction. This way, you can make some extra money on the way to your destination.
Similarly, if you’re a freelance drone pilot working with DroneBase or another similar platform, you can use the Destination feature to make the most of your time on the road. By setting your destination to your next job site, you can filter out ride requests that don’t align with your schedule or route. This can help you streamline your operations and make the most of your time and resources.
Overall, the possibilities are endless when it comes to using the Destination feature on Uber and the Destination Mode on Lyft. These tools can be a game-changer for drivers who want to optimize their routes, save time and money, and earn more money on the road. Whether you’re driving for rideshare platforms full-time or using your vehicle for other purposes, these features are worth exploring and experimenting with.
Update: August 20, 2019
Lyft has made big changes to how much they pay drivers in Madison, Wisconsin. Before, drivers were paid at the end of the trip, but now they get paid as soon as they accept the ride request. However, the amount drivers get paid per mile has been cut in half.
This new system has caused some disagreement among drivers. Some think it’s better because they the meter is started straight away. But others are worried they won’t make as much money because they’re getting paid less per mile.
It’s important to remember that these changes affect other drivers outside of Madison, Wisconsin, and Lyft is frequently changing the way they pay drivers. This is something to keep in mind if you’re thinking about becoming a Lyft driver anywhere.
| Lyft Madison ** You’re pad for total time and distance once you accept a ride | UberX Madison ** You’re paid for total time and distance after pickup of pax |
| $0.464/per mile (1/2 Uber) $0.208/per minute $0.48/per pickup $0.208/wait time??? min ride $3.40 | $0.928/per mile $0.16/per minute $1.00/per pickup $0.232/wait time min ride $3.40 |
| Lyft Wisconsin Dells ** You’re paid for total time and distance after pickup of pax | UberX Wisconsin Dells ** You’re paid for total time and distance after pickup of pax |
| $0.928/per mile $0.12/per minute $0.80/per pickup $0.12/wait time??? min ride $3.88 | $1.248 /per mile $0.16/per minute $1.00/per pickup $0.232/wait time min ride $5.12 |
| Lyft Portage ** You’re paid for total time and distance after pickup of pax | UberX Portage ** You’re paid for total time and distance after pickup of pax |
| $1.248/per mile $0.16/per minute $1.40/per pickup $0.16/wait time??? min ride $3.88 | $1.248 /per mile $0.16/per minute $1.60/per pickup $0.232/wait time min ride $5.12 |
| Lyft Portage Milwaukee (Watertown, West Bend, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha, Franklin ** You’re pad for total time and distance once you accept a ride | UberX Milwaukee (Watertown, West Bend, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha, Franklin ** You’re paid for total time and distance after pickup of pax |
| $0.504/per mile $0.224/per minute $0.48/per pickup $0.224/wait time??? min ride $3.60 | $0.928 /per mile $0.16/per minute $1.00/per pickup $0.208/wait time min ride $3.60 |
Uber pays drivers a long pickup fee if they have to drive more than 8 minutes to pick up a passenger. This fee can be a great way to earn extra income if you’re a driver in Madison or Milwaukee. Not only that, but Uber pays drivers more per mile compared to Lyft in these cities. So, if you have to drive more than 8 minutes to pick up a passenger, you can earn even more money with Uber.
EXAMPLE FARES
Lyft Madison vs Uber Madison
10-minute ride, 5 miles, assuming very little driving to pick up a passenger.
LYFT:
Base Fare: $.40
Distance (5.0 mi x $ 0.464/mi) $2.32
Time (10 min x $ 0.208/min) $2.08
Your Earnings $4.80
Uber:
Base Fare: $1
Distance (5.0 mi x $0.928/mi) $4.64
Time (10 min x $0.16/min) $1.6
Your Earnings $7.24
The difference is $2.44 between rides. Let’s assume you had to drive 3 miles to the customer. Let’s see how the numbers play out.
10-minute ride, 5 miles, you’re 10 minutes, 3 miles away from customer
LYFT:
Base Fare: $.40
Distance (8.0 mi x $ 0.464/mi) $3.712
Time (20 min x $ 0.208/min) $4.16
Your Earnings $8.272
Uber:
Base Fare: $1
Distance (5.0 mi x $0.928/mi) $4.64
Time (10 min x $0.16/min) $1.6
Your Earnings $7.24
Now Lyft wins but now it’s totally dependant on how much you’re driving to get to the pick location. I prefer the way Uber is doing it.
50 mile ride?
90-minute ride, 50 miles, you’re 5 minutes, 1 miles away from customer
LYFT:
Base Fare: $.40
Distance (51 mi x $ 0.464/mi) $23.664
Time (95 min x $ 0.208/min) $19.76
Your Earnings $43.824
Uber:
Base Fare: $1
Distance (50 mi x $0.928/mi) $46.4
Time (90 min x $0.16/min) $14.4
Your Earnings $61.80
Uber has a policy where drivers can earn a long pickup fee if they have to travel more than 8 minutes to pick up a passenger. This can be a nice boost to a driver’s income, but the amount earned will depend on how far they have to travel to reach the pick-up location. It’s important to note that this policy only applies to Uber and not Lyft.
Based on this policy, some drivers may prefer working with Uber over Lyft because they can earn more money for long pickups. However, it’s important to consider other factors like the amount of time and money spent on gas to reach the pickup location. Ultimately, the decision between Uber and Lyft depends on individual preferences and circumstances.
In the Wisconsin Dells, Uber seems to be the better option for drivers due to its higher pay per ride compared to Lyft. However, drivers may also find more ride activity with Lyft in the area.
It’s important for drivers to consider both factors when deciding which platform to drive for in the Wisconsin Dells. While earning more money per ride is attractive, having a consistent stream of ride requests is also crucial for maximizing earnings. Drivers should weigh their options carefully and choose the platform that works best for their individual needs and circumstances.
** Rates may be inaccurate for new drivers.