Plan on about 70 minutes in the car from Downtown Vancouver to Squamish. The distance is 60 km, and a standard rideshare is about $98 at normal demand, with a likely range of $88 to $113.
How the price is built
On a long trip, distance and time do most of the work. The estimate uses average rates: a $2.50 base fare, $1.15 per km, $0.35 per minute and a $2.00 booking fee. Sixty kilometres adds $69.00 and 70 minutes adds $24.50. With the base fare that comes to $96.00, and the booking fee makes about $98.
This is our own estimate from average rates and not a figure from Uber. The Uber app shows the real upfront price, and on a trip of this size you should look at it before agreeing.
Demand matters more as the base grows. A busy period (1.2 multiplier) gives about $117. Very busy (1.5) gives about $146, and peak (2.0) gives about $194. The difference between normal and peak is close to $100.
Bigger vehicles are priced higher too: Comfort is about $122, XL (up to 6 seats) is about $141 and Premier is about $218. For a group of four or more, XL can cost less per person than two separate standard cars.
Taxi fare and what to compare
Whalley Taxi and Royal City Taxi charge the same, $3.75 to start and $2.18 per km after. For 60 km the meter comes to about $135 on either tariff. A long wait or add on charges would come on top of that figure. That is about $37 more than the typical rideshare estimate, though the rideshare price can pass it at peak.
Because the sums are larger, it is worth phoning for a quote. A company will often tell you what to expect for a long run before you commit.
Tips for a long intercity ride
- Book earlier than you would for a short trip, and check the price again just before you confirm.
- Confirm that your luggage fits, and choose XL if you are bringing more than a couple of bags.
- Ask whether a driver is online and willing to take the trip, since longer runs are not always accepted quickly.
- Keep a phone charged so the driver can reach you if the pickup is unclear.
Seventy minutes is an average drive time. If you have a connection or a booking at the other end, leave a generous margin. Riders who need a wheelchair accessible vehicle should phone ahead, for example Yellow Cab Vancouver on 604-681-1111.