Rent a car vs. Uber/Lyft

[mom18]

I am debating on their a rental car or uber/lyft for our upcming trip. There are multiple reservations we have that are rather tough to get to via disney transportation, and we are also going to universal two days out of our vacation.

I have priced out both (priced uber using their "fare estimator"). It does look as though Uber is cheaper, however, I am not sure if the estimator is accurate? I have never used Uber or Lyft. I have no idea how it works, or the cost of anything. Is an estimate of $14-18 accurate to get from AoA - Universal with four people?

Anyone have any experience with Uber or Lyft? Maybe some insights on Rental car vs. Uber/Lyft?
Is there a cheaper alternative?

Obviously, looking for ways to keep costs down while there, as well as stress!! (In the past we have rented a car (once), and always used Disney Transporation.)

Thanks!!!

 

[JimMIA]

I have unique expertise to answer this question -- I always DRIVE to Disney, and I also drive for both Uber and Lyft. My suggestion is that you rent a car if the price difference is not too great.

You have rented a car before, so you've driven at Disney before which is a plus. You haven't used Uber/Lyft. They're super-easy and inexpensive, but they are new to you. You will be fine either way.

For price comparisons, understand that online estimators -- including the rideshare companies' -- are approximations. Also understand two other factors:

• Both companies use "up-front pricing," which may well generate a price higher than the estimator shows
• Both companies use dynamic pricing during periods of very high demand. In those situations, the actual price for the ride could be several times the generic price generated by the estimator. (This is NOT a major concern, IMHO, unless you are talking about closing time rides.)

Cheaper alternative? Only free Disney transportation onsite. Not to UA or anywhere offsite.

 

[Disneypeach]

Don't forget to factor in parking fees for a rental...

 

[mom18]

I have unique expertise to answer this question -- I always DRIVE to Disney, and I also drive for both Uber and Lyft. My suggestion is that you rent a car if the price difference is not too great.

You have rented a car before, so you've driven at Disney before which is a plus. You haven't used Uber/Lyft. They're super-easy and inexpensive, but they are new to you. You will be fine either way.

For price comparisons, understand that online estimators -- including the rideshare companies' -- are approximations. Also understand two other factors:

• Both companies use "up-front pricing," which may well generate a price higher than the estimator shows
• Both companies use dynamic pricing during periods of very high demand. In those situations, the actual price for the ride could be several times the generic price generated by the estimator. (This is NOT a major concern, IMHO, unless you are talking about closing time rides.)

Cheaper alternative? Only free Disney transportation onsite. Not to UA or anywhere offsite.

THANK YOU SO MUCH!! You have answered my question completely! Im still unsure what to do, but i have a great deal to think about!!

Don't forget to factor in parking fees for a rental...

Added this in to my total cost as well!! Thank you!

 

[barbliny]

I would also add that there are some other distinct advantages to renting a car. I agree that if the cost of the rental car is not exorbitant - I would go that route rather than relying on Uber/Lyft if you know you will need transportation outside of Disney's free options. Our 8-day car rental wound up costing us only $168 (tax & fees included) from Hertz in June. The price plummeted the week before our trip. I would have a rental car booked and you could always cancel it at the last minute.

You definitely know you will need transportation to/from Universal.
You can shop for groceries/alcohol/toiletries off-property and save money there.
You can explore some off-property restaurants - I highly recommend Sweet Tomatoes, an all you can eat salad bar in the Crossroads shopping center. I crave salads and vegetables when I'm at Disney - I find I get overloaded on starches and carbs when I'm there.
You can shop at the outlets if you are so inclined.
You can drive to Disney Springs - which is a nightmare as far as Disney transportation is concerned.
If you are going to a water park - they now require switching buses, no more direct Disney bus transportation. So, driving there is a much better option.
Mini golf? Car is much easier.
Want to get to Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, or Epcot for morning EMH or regular rope-drop? Much easier and more predictable with a car.
Rainy day and you don't like touring the parks in the rain - more alternatives available with a rental car.

We always rent a car - I like the freedom it gives us!! Yes, a lot of days it doesn't move from the parking lot. But, I like being able to change a plan on a whim and the car makes it easier.