5 mistakes you should avoid when getting a cab online
By David Nthua, February 16, 2026Kenyans love ordering their favourite cabs online and from different companies, and there is nothing wrong with that.
This is because, cabs, unlike Public Service Vehicles (PSV) are convinient, in that the driver (s) can take your door step and can pick you there.
That aside, it also important to understand that some mistakes Kenyans commit, when, during and ordering cabs can be costly. Below are 5 mistakes.
Talking too much
Online cab drivers are not your friends and do not need to know your personal life. Talking too much exposes sensitive information such as where you live, your routine, your work schedule, or whether you are traveling alone.
This information can be misused immediately or later. Some drivers deliberately engage passengers in long conversations to assess their confidence level, financial status, or vulnerability.
For your safety, keep conversations short, neutral, and strictly related to the trip. Silence is not rude; it is a safety choice.
Not having extra money
Relying on only one payment method is a common mistake. App failures, network issues, or deliberate claims of payment problems can arise at the end of a trip. Some drivers become aggressive, demand additional payment, or insist you send money directly to them.
When you have no alternative, the situation can escalate quickly. Carrying a small amount of extra money or having a second digital payment option protects you from being pressured, delayed, or intimidated.
Being excessively drunk
Excessive drinking before or during a cab ride significantly increases risk. Alcohol impairs judgment, awareness, and reaction time. Drunk passengers may fail to notice wrong turns, extended routes, or unsafe driving.
They are also more likely to drop phones, forget belongings, or fall asleep, making them easy targets for theft.
If you are drunk, you are not in control of the situation. If possible, arrange a trusted pickup or ensure someone is tracking your trip in real time.
Tipping by default
Tipping should not be automatic. Online cab fares already include the driver’s earnings and platform commission.
If a single trip costs Ksh 2,000, tipping on every ride can quietly drain your finances over time.
Routine tipping creates unnecessary financial pressure, especially for frequent users.
Tipping should be optional and based on exceptional service, not guilt or habit. Consistently tipping for standard service provides no additional safety or benefit.
Ignoring basic safety checks
Skipping simple safety steps exposes you to avoidable risks. Always confirm the car registration, driver photo, and name before entering the vehicle. Keep your phone charged and ensure GPS tracking is active throughout the trip.
Monitor the route to confirm it matches the app’s directions. Sharing your live location with a trusted contact adds an extra layer of protection.
These checks take seconds but significantly reduce the chances of misconduct, route manipulation, or emergencies going unnoticed.