Introduction
Uber has evolved from a simple ride-hailing app into a broader services platform that aims to give you your time back. At its recent Go-Get event, Uber unveiled features that let you book hotels, earn rewards, and eventually access concierge and personal shopping services—all within the same app. This guide walks you through the steps to book a hotel via Uber, understand the trade-offs with traditional loyalty programs, and get the most out of the new Uber One travel perks.
What You Need
- Uber app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
- Uber One subscription (optional but recommended, $9.99/month) for extra savings and rebates
- An active internet connection
- A payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.) linked to your Uber account
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Hotel via Uber
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Step 1: Open the Uber App and Navigate to the Travel Section
Launch the Uber app on your device. Look for the new “Travel” icon or tab—likely placed alongside ride options. Tap it to enter the hotel booking interface. This feature essentially embeds the hotel-search functionality from Expedia (Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi’s former employer) and routes it through Uber’s payment system.
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Step 2: Search for Your Destination and Dates
Enter your desired city, check-in and check-out dates, and the number of guests. The app will display a list of available properties. According to Uber, “booking a hotel on Uber is going to feel as easy as booking a ride.”
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Step 3: Filter and Compare Hotel Listings
Use the available filters to narrow down results by price, reviews, amenities (like free Wi-Fi, pool, gym), and more. While Uber hasn’t disclosed the default ranking algorithm, be aware that the first result may not always be the best value. For example, a search for a Chicago hotel during the event showed the Trump International Hotel & Tower as the top pick at $1,322—a high price for the category. Always compare multiple options before deciding.
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Step 4: Understand the Loyalty Trade-Offs
Booking through Uber means you’ll forfeit points and elite-status credits from hotel chains (e.g., Marriott, Hilton). Instead, you earn Uber One credits—a 10% rebate on bookings if you’re a subscriber. Consider how much you value Uber One credits versus hotel-brand points. If you frequently use Uber or Uber Eats, the credits may be more flexible and valuable to you.
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Step 5: Complete Your Booking
Once you’ve selected a hotel, proceed to checkout. If you have an Uber One membership, you’ll see a discount of at least 20% on a “rolling list of properties” (check the fine print). Complete the payment using your linked method, and your reservation is confirmed within the app.
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Step 6: Explore Additional Travel Services (Optional)
Beyond hotels, Uber aims to become your concierge and personal shopper during trips. While these features are still rolling out, keep an eye out for options like booking experiences, restaurant reservations, or shopping through the app. Uber’s vision is a single app for everything you need while traveling.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Uber Travel
- Assess your loyalty priorities. If you’re loyal to a specific hotel chain, booking directly may still offer better long-term perks. Uber’s platform works best for occasional travelers or those who value Uber’s ecosystem.
- Check for Uber One exclusive deals before finalizing any booking. The 20% savings can significantly reduce costs, but not all properties participate—verify in the app.
- Monitor the default ranking and try a few searches to see if the algorithm favors certain partners. Use filtering to find the best fit for your needs.
- Stay informed about future expansions. Uber’s Go-Get event hinted at concierge and personal shopper capabilities. Update your app regularly to access new features as they launch.
- Combine Uber rides and hotel bookings for a seamless trip. Use the same app to schedule airport transfers and check into your hotel, all while tracking your Uber One credits.
By following these steps, you can leverage Uber’s growing platform to simplify travel planning and potentially save money—while understanding the trade-offs with traditional loyalty programs. As CEO Khosrowshahi puts it, Uber’s core service is giving you back your time, and this guide helps you do just that.