Taxis are a dependable way to get around, especially in cities where rideshare apps can be unreliable or surge-priced. But that reliability often comes with a higher fare—unless you know how to stack the right apps to reduce your transportation costs. From cashback rewards to fare estimators and receipt trackers, these apps can help you pay less without changing your route.
- Fluz – Instant Cashback with Gift Cards and Virtual Payments
Fluz is a top pick for earning cashback on transportation spending. Instead of paying your taxi fare directly, you purchase a digital gift card or virtual card from Fluz, then use that card at checkout. Many taxis accept major payment networks like Visa or Mastercard, making this option widely applicable.
If you’re riding with taxi services connected to national platforms, you can:
- Earn cashback with an Uber gift card
- Get rewards with a Lyft gift card
- Earn cashback with a BP virtual card when filling up during a taxi rental or ride-along scenario
- Get rewards with a Shell virtual card in cities where taxis allow passenger-covered fuel stops
Fluz allows real-time purchases and works with mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay, making it ideal for in-the-moment transactions.
- Ibotta – Manual Receipt Cashback for Travel-Related Purchases
Ibotta lets users scan and upload receipts for cashback, including on travel-related purchases and certain transportation partners. While it’s more commonly associated with grocery savings, you can occasionally find bonuses for rideshare, transit, or fuel-related expenses.
Pro tip: Combine Ibotta’s offers with digital gift cards from Fluz to maximize your return on each ride.
- Gridwise – Mileage Tracking for Gig Workers and Frequent Riders
Gridwise is primarily used by rideshare and delivery drivers, but it’s also a helpful app for riders who want to track mileage and transportation costs. If you frequently use taxis for business or medical travel, Gridwise can automatically log your trips and calculate deductions.
It’s especially helpful if you plan to write off transportation expenses during tax season.
- Splitwise – Easy Fare Splitting with Friends or Coworkers
Splitwise makes it simple to divide taxi fares with friends, roommates, or coworkers. Instead of fumbling with cash or awkward math, the app lets each party log their portion of the bill and tracks who owes what. It’s especially handy for frequent shared rides or recurring business travel with teams.
- Citymapper – Fare Comparison and Trip Planning
Citymapper isn’t a cashback tool, but it’s a powerful transit app that shows real-time route comparisons across taxis, buses, subways, and walking. You can see estimated fare costs for cabs alongside alternate options, helping you decide whether to take the ride or explore a cheaper route.
Citymapper is currently active in major U.S. cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
- TripLog – IRS-Compliant Mileage and Expense Reports
TripLog is perfect for self-employed professionals, freelancers, and small business owners who need accurate mileage logs and receipt tracking. If you use taxis for work or business purposes, TripLog can organize receipts (including those from Fluz and digital wallets) and prepare reports that align with IRS transportation expense rules.
- Expensify – All-in-One Expense Tracking for Business Riders
Expensify allows users to snap photos of receipts, categorize expenses, and submit reimbursement reports. If you regularly use taxis for client meetings, events, or office travel, Expensify helps you stay organized. It also integrates with many business credit cards and accounting platforms.
Combine These Tools for Maximum Savings
The best way to save money on taxis isn’t by using one app—it’s by layering the benefits of multiple tools. Here’s a sample strategy:
- Use Fluz to purchase a digital gift card for your ride.
- Pay with a rewards-earning credit card.
- Save the receipt and upload it to Ibotta or track it with TripLog.
- Split the cost with friends using Splitwise if applicable.
Each app plays a different role in helping you reduce your transportation expenses—whether you’re earning cashback, saving time, or avoiding overcharges.
