How to Stay Safe in Taxis While Traveling
Research local taxi apps and official services before arrival, verify the driver and vehicle details, sit behind the driver, keep valuables hidden, and always share your location with someone. Trust your instincts and exit immediately if something feels wrong.
- Budget
- $2-5 extra per ride for safer options
- Duration
- Ongoing safety practices
- Best Time
- All travel times require safety awareness
- Visa Required
- Not applicable
Step by step
Download local ride apps before you travel
Research which apps work in your destination (Uber, Bolt, Grab, Didi, etc.) and download them while you have good wifi. Add your payment method and verify your account. This creates a digital trail and removes cash handling.
Know the official taxi signs and colors
Look up what legitimate taxis look like in your destination. Most cities have specific colors, roof signs, or license plate formats. Screenshot examples on your phone for quick reference.
Verify the vehicle before getting in
Check the license plate matches the app, look for taxi license displayed inside, and confirm the driver's photo matches. For street hails, ensure the meter works or agree on price before starting.
Choose your seat strategically
Sit directly behind the driver so they cannot easily see what you're doing or grab you. Keep your exit-side door unlocked. Avoid the front passenger seat unless cultural norms require it.
Share your trip details immediately
Send your route, driver details, and expected arrival time to someone you trust. Most ride apps have built-in sharing features. For regular taxis, text a photo of the license plate.
Stay alert and connected
Keep your phone charged and connected. Avoid falling asleep, wearing headphones, or getting distracted by your phone. Watch the route to ensure the driver is following GPS directions.
Handle payment safely
Use card or app payment when possible. If paying cash, have exact change ready and avoid displaying large bills. Never let the driver handle your phone or cards.
Exit immediately if uncomfortable
Trust your instincts. If the driver seems intoxicated, aggressive, or takes unexpected routes, ask to be let out at the next safe, public location. Do not worry about being polite.
Questions people ask
What if ride apps don't work in my destination?
Use hotel or restaurant staff to call reputable taxi companies, ask for official taxi stands at airports or train stations, and always verify the driver has proper licensing displayed inside the vehicle.
Should I sit in the front or back seat?
Always sit in the back, directly behind the driver, unless local culture strongly expects front-seat passengers. This gives you better control over the situation and easier exit options.
How do I handle aggressive or unsafe drivers?
Immediately ask to exit at the next safe, public location like a gas station or busy intersection. If they refuse, call local emergency services or make noise to attract attention. Your safety is worth more than the fare.
What if the taxi doesn't have a working meter?
Agree on the fare before starting the trip and confirm it in writing or text. If the driver demands more at the end, pay what you agreed and leave immediately. Report the incident if using an official taxi service.
Is it safe to take taxis alone at night?
Use extra caution at night. Choose well-lit pickup locations, share your trip details with someone, and consider paying slightly more for premium services that offer additional driver verification and tracking.
Budget
Ride apps typically cost 10-30% more than street taxis but provide better safety tracking. Budget an extra $2-5 per ride for the security benefits of verified drivers and digital records.
Packing
- Portable phone charger to maintain communication
- Small emergency whistle attached to keychain
- Local emergency contact numbers saved in phone
- Cash in small bills for exact taxi fare
Related: airport to city, safety basics for a first trip abroad and airport transfers.