The keys are in hand, the app is downloaded, and the open road well, the Seattle streets, awaits. Heading into my first day driving for Uber, there’s definitely a mix of excitement and, let’s be honest, a few nerves. Will I find passengers easily? Can I navigate efficiently? Will I spill coffee on my first ride? (Okay, maybe that last one is just me).
One thing I know for sure is that being prepared can make a world of difference, transforming potential stress into smooth sailing. That’s why I put together a list of essential tools – the tech, business necessities, comfort items, and safety gear – that I believe are crucial for starting strong. Think of this as my Uber Driver Starter Pack, specifically tailored for navigating the unique demands of driving in Seattle. This definitely falls under “Navigating Seattle,” because having the right gear helps navigate the job itself, not just the I-5 traffic!
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The Command Center: Tech and Navigation
This is mission control. Having the right tech, and keeping it powered, is non-negotiable.
- Main Phone: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, This is the heart of the operation. It runs the Uber Driver app, displays navigation (I’ll likely be bouncing between Google Maps and Waze), and connects me with passengers. Its reliable performance and large screen are key for quick glances and clear map views.
- My phone is powered by GoogleFi, which I have never had any coverage issues. Save $60 with my referral code 2PWM52
- Phone Mount: Seriously, don’t even think about driving without one. Washington’s hands-free laws are strict, and fumbling with your phone is dangerous. I opted for a sturdy windshield mount from Quad Lock. Since they do not have a phone case for my Pixel, I got a Quad Lock Mag Universal Adaptor. Stability is crucial – a phone bouncing around is distracting and unsafe.
- Reliable Car Charger & Cable: The Uber app and GPS are notorious battery hogs. A quality fast charger compatible with my Pixel and a couple of durable Anker USB-C cables from are essential to stay powered throughout a shift. A dead phone means a dead end to your driving day. Consider a multi-port Anker charger if you have other devices.
- Google Pixel Buds: These will be useful for hearing navigation prompts and new rides coming in clearly. I plan on only having one earbud in at a time, unless I am on a break listening to a podcast or music.
- Extra Emergency Phone: My older Google Pixel 8 Pro serves as a vital backup. If the main phone crashes, dies unexpectedly, or there’s an emergency and I need a dedicated 911 device, this old faithful is ready.
Managing the Business: From Mile One
Driving for Uber is running a small business. Tracking finances from the very beginning is crucial for tax time sanity.
- Solo App: This app is my dedicated tool for tracking mileage automatically, logging expenses (like that car wash or those snacks), and getting income estimates. Staying organized with finances right from day one is non-negotiable. Future me will thank current me.
- Good To Go! Pass: If you’re driving in Seattle, this little sticker is a must-have. It’s Washington’s electronic tolling system, required for crossing the SR 520 bridge and using the SR 99 tunnel without getting hit with higher toll-by-mail fees and potential hassles. Get this set up before your first day if possible – it saves money and time.
Driver Comfort and Ride Readiness
Happy driver, happy rides! Taking care of myself on my first day driving for Uber and being prepared for passengers makes the shift better.
- Water Bottle: My trusty Yeti Cup! Staying hydrated is key, especially during longer driving blocks. Plus, this mug has a straw, so easy to drink from while driving.
- Driver Snacks: Keeping some non-messy snacks like granola bars or nuts on hand helps maintain energy levels without needing long breaks.
- Basic Cleaning Supplies: Armor All Microfiber cloths for quick dashboard and window wipe-downs, disinfectant wipes for shared surfaces, and Ozium Air Sanitizer and Odor Eliminator. Seattle’s weather means passengers inevitably track in rain or mud. A quick cleanup between rides keeps the car presentable.
- Passenger Preparedness: Simple things like having tissues or napkins available are thoughtful touches. And yes, the dreaded “barf bags” (emesis bags) – especially crucial for evening or weekend shifts. Better to have them discreetly stashed and never need them than face the alternative!
Safety and Contingency
Being prepared for the unexpected provides peace of mind.
- Flashlight: The ThruNite Archer 2A C LED flashlight is invaluable for finding house numbers on dimly lit streets at night, helping passengers find dropped items in the car, or doing a quick tire check.
- Small First-Aid Kit: Basic supplies for minor cuts or scrapes. Simple preparedness.
- Essential Documents: Keep your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration easily accessible (glove box or digitally, if allowed).
- Dash Cam: While not in my kit for day one since I am renting a car and I do not know if it will come with one or not, many drivers swear by dash cams for liability protection and documenting incidents. It’s something I’ll consider investing in down the road – perhaps a topic for a future post!
Ready to Roll
So, that’s the toolkit! Covering the tech, business essentials, comfort items, and safety gear feels like a solid foundation for hitting the road. Gathering these items beforehand definitely helps reduce that first-day anxiety. If I had to guess which tool I’ll be most grateful for immediately? Probably the phone mount and the Good To Go! pass – pure Seattle essentials.
Thankfully we got past the roadblock called Uber Customer Service and we are ready to hit the road.
What about you, experienced drivers, what are your absolute must-have tools? What do you wish you’d had in your car on day one? Share your wisdom in the comments below!
Keep your coffee hot and your rides smooth! See you next mile!
