How to Avoid the Pitfalls of Using Taxi service when traveling
If you have traveled to other countries, it is likely that you have utilized taxi services during your travels. This article mainly focuses on troublesome taxi drivers. It is difficult to estimate the proportion of “bad” taxi drivers I have encountered on my trips around the world since each country is unique and it is these “bad” drivers who leave a lasting impression. If I had to give an approximate figure, I would say that perhaps 20-30% of the taxi drivers I have used around the world have attempted to do something suspicious (often related to overcharging, but this varies greatly from country to country). Similarly, I have also used many taxi drivers around the world with whom I have had no issues whatsoever.
Taxi fares are typically calculated based on both the distance and duration of the trip. This means that even if you are stuck in traffic and not moving, the meter will still be running and the fare will increase. Additionally, when you first enter the taxi, the meter is usually set to a minimum charge, which may be based on a standard price for the first few kilometers of the trip. It’s important to note that not all taxis have meters installed in their vehicles.
Problems that you may run into when using taxi drivers while traveling
Miscommunication or Language Barriers
When using taxis, miscommunication can be a major issue, especially if you and the driver speak different languages or they pretend not to understand you. Having the destination address written down can be helpful, but it’s important to ensure that the driver understands you and to always repeat their important responses, especially regarding the price and destination address. It’s not unreasonable to confirm the agreed-upon price multiple times with the driver.
Raising Price after Agreeing on Price
Occasionally, a driver may agree on a price for the trip, but then try to raise the price later on by citing bad traffic, tolls, or other excuses. If this happens, it’s best to ask the driver to stop the car and get out, as you no longer require their services. If the driver knows in advance about a situation that could cause the fare to be higher, they should inform you beforehand.
Covering the meter
Another issue to be aware of is some drivers covering the meter during the trip, then “accidentally” turning it off to make up a higher price later. Always keep an eye on the meter and know how much it reads.
Not Using the Meter
The excuse of not using the taxi meter can be complex, and there are various reasons why a driver may refuse to use it. In some cities, such as Bangkok, some drivers may not use their meters due to heavy traffic. However, often, it is an attempt to overcharge passengers. To prepare yourself, it is recommended to research the typical taxi prices in a particular city before your trip, using resources such as travel message boards or forums. If a driver refuses to use the meter in an area where meters are typically used, try to find one who will use it.
In some cities, taxi drivers may not have meters in their cars, and bargaining over the price before starting the trip may be necessary. It is common for drivers at airports or bus stations to charge inflated prices, so it’s best to have an idea of typical rates beforehand. Consider walking out of the airport or bus station to hail a taxi on a busy street, where prices may be more reasonable. If one driver refuses to take you for a certain price, there may be another who will, especially in areas with many taxis.
Taking Long route
It’s recommended to have an estimation of the distance to your hotel or guesthouse before you begin your journey. It’s a good practice to pre-load Google Maps on your phone and mark the address of your destination. This way, if your taxi driver takes a longer route or drives around in circles, you can track your journey and have an idea of what’s happening.
Odd Hours surcharge
It’s important to note that taxi drivers may charge an extra fee when you use their services during unconventional hours, like very late at night or early in the morning. To avoid any surprises, it’s best to confirm this with the driver beforehand.
Hotel Commission Scheme
Sometimes cheap hotels or hostels will pay taxi drivers for taking backpackers to their hotel. Some drivers I’ve met have been particularly forceful about taking me to the “best” hotel – and one that they recommend. Some of these hotels are fine of course – but you should be aware of their intentions, and they may try to convince you to go elsewhere, even if you already have a hotel to stay at.
People already in the Taxi
Taxi drivers in some countries will pick up as many people as can fit in their car and then drop them off as they go. This can be very problematic especially if you are trying to get somewhere in a timely manner. I’ve had drivers tell me its only going to take a few minutes and it ends up taking a lot longer to drop off the other people already in the car. The people already in the taxi typically will have priority over your destination and you will have to wait until they are dropped off first.
May not know the address or directions to destination
There is a good chance that not every taxi driver is going to know how to get to your exact address especially if you are in a large city and are not going to a well known destination. If they don’t know and there are a lot of taxis around its always better to find a taxi driver that tells you he knows. I’ve wasted so much time in taxis driving around with drivers who didn’t know the exact location of where I wanted to go. Or, another way to deal with this, is already have your destination address loaded on your Google Maps – in numerous cases I have guided the taxi drivers the last few minutes to my destination by telling them where to turn based on the route shown on my map on my phone. And note that more and more these days taxi drivers will plug your address into their own phone’s map which certainly eliminates the hassle of the ‘old days’ of finding an address.
Minimum charge
Upon taking a short trip the driver will tell you at the end of your trip that he has a “minimum fee” and he will give you some higher price than is what is shown on the meter. It is a good idea if you know you will be making a short trip, to ask the driver if he has a “minimum trip fee” *before* you actually commit to taking the trip. Also note that some taxi meters may already be set to a minimum price (which you will clearly see on the meter to start the drive) – such as whatever the standard price is for 1 or 2 kilometers.
Traveling can be an intimidating experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or language. For this reason, taxi services are a great way to get around a new city or country. However, it does come with certain risks—which is why it’s important to be mindful of the potential pitfalls when using taxi service.
First, it’s important to ensure you’re using a legitimate taxi company. It’s not uncommon for less reputable companies to charge exorbitant fees or take you around the block multiple times to drive up the meter. Do your research to make sure the taxi you’re using is legitimate and has a good reputation.
Second, be aware of your route. If you notice the driver is taking you a different direction than you requested, politely let him know. It may be a mistake on their part, but it’s still better to be vigilant and be sure you’re not the victim of a scam.
Finally, carefully verify the cost of the ride before it begins and during pauses in your journey. Taking the time to check the fare can help you avoid unexpected costs at the end of your trip.
By being aware of these potential pitfalls, you can ensure that your taxi ride is a successful and stress-free experience. Make sure you research the company and driver, be conscious of your route, and keep an eye on the fare throughout the journey—and you should have a safe and enjoyable taxi service experience!
