Summer is a busy time of year. Between beach parties, outdoor festivals, and vacations, more people might need rides and deliveries. And if you’re a rideshare or delivery driver, this could be a chance to boost your earnings. 

To help, here are the top tips for how to maximize your summer drive time.

1. Know the Events in Your Area

There are often more local festivities during the summer. Check for big events on Facebook or apps like EventBrite. That way you can capitalize on increased ride requests or avoid event-related traffic while you’re driving for a delivery service.

But remember to plan ahead. While it can be tempting to chase a post-event surge, the demand for rides can often decrease or disappear by the time you arrive.

2. Drive Near Popular Summer Destinations

Similarly, make the most of your time on the road by driving near summer hotspots like the beach, restaurant districts, or tourist areas. 

Ride requests will uptick in the summer while people are out and about. Meeting them where they are can help you maximize your drives.

3. Track Miles and Expenses With the Stride App

Summer is a busy time of year, which means you may decide to spend more time on the road. And tracking your miles and expenses while you drive can help you save money on taxes. If you’re a rideshare or delivery driver, you can deduct the costs of driving from your taxable income.

Sound complicated? It doesn’t have to be. Download the free Stride app, which automatically logs your miles and helps you track business costs (like auto repairs and car insurance). During tax season, Stride will give you an IRS-ready tax report for easy filing.

4. Save on Gas With the Stride App’s Deals Tab

You don’t have to wait for tax time to access savings through the Stride app. 

Browse the new Deals tab to get exclusive local discounts on gas, car repairs, and more to cut back on the cost of driving this summer.

5. Drive Prepared

Whether it’s sunscreen, sand, or plates of food for a barbeque, summer activities can be messy. Prepare for spills by stocking your car with towels, wipes, and trash bags. That way your car stays clean for future rides. 

You can also set yourself apart by offering riders water bottles or snacks. Just remember to track these purchases in the Stride app so you can later deduct them as a business expense!

Want more tips for how to optimize your ride? Download our Stride app and learn how tracking your miles and expenses can save you thousands at tax time. And check out our tips from The Rideshare Guy here.