u/VaporWavey420

I’ve noticed that a lot of the grab drivers have runny noses and are sniffling quite a bit. Are they sick or on meth?

1. Never ask, “How much?” deflect if they do

This is the golden rule. If you start discussing price or haggling right out of the gate, you immediately flag yourself as a tourist. Likewise, if a driver asks how much you are willing to pay, decline to give a number. Simply tell them you pay the “normal rate.” (Rates - see #2)

2. When you board, immediately specify whether you want a “regular” or “special” (pakyaw) ride

• Regular rides mean the driver can pick up other passengers along the way. These typically cost 20–35 PHP for locals, depending on the distance (though I will often pay up to 50 PHP if I’m feeling generous).

• Special rides mean you have the trike to yourself. Expect to pay 50–80 PHP based on distance, though I have paid up to 150 PHP for longer routes with multiple stops.

3. Benchmark prices against Grab.

If a driver quotes an exorbitant fare, you can either politely walk away and find a new driver, or use Grab to negotiate. Check the local Grab car rate and offer the trike driver half of that amount. Trikes are significantly cheaper to buy and operate than cars, so don’t be swayed by arguments about high gas prices. You shouldn’t be expected to pay car-level fares for a trike ride just because you are a foreigner.

4. Maintain kindness and perspective

Trike drivers typically earn around 500 PHP a day, which is a modest living. Understand that even if a driver attempts to overcharge you, they are likely just trying to provide for their family. Don’t take it personally. If the driver seems approachable, strike up a friendly conversation to build rapport. Drivers are much less likely to overcharge when they realize you are a respectful expat who knows the ropes.

5. Learn a few local phrases

Knowing a bit of the local language helps immensely. Dropping a few words in the local dialect shows that you respect the culture and, by extension, the driver. You don’t need to be fluent—just a little effort goes a very long way.

6. BONUS 1 – Tips for not paying skin tax in cabs

A. Tell them to start the meter when you get in. Some will intentionally not start it and then give you a surprise price when you arrive.

B. Use your nav and if they go too far off route or head into heavy traffic just pay them and get out. This hasn’t happened to me yet but I know occasionally they will take the long route. Wayz is a good app for navigating your most desired route. Important: most of the time they are going to choose the quickest route and the longer route may be a shortcut: so don’t automatically assume they are trying to screw you over. Just politely ask questions be aware.

7. BONUS 2 – Grab

This post isn’t meant to discourage you from using Grab, which is usually the most comfortable option (notice I didn’t say the easiest). That said, as many have mentioned in the comments, Grab is a fantastic alternative and often the best choice, depending on the situation. For me, if I have multiple places to go within a 2km radius, Grab fares add up quickly and the wait times can be a hassle. In those cases, it’s typically just easier to flag down a trike and go.

8. BONUS 3 – Multiple Stops

Another option is to have the Trike driver accompany you on multiple stops. However some knowledge about rates is important in these circumstances as it actually can be helpful to ignore the golden rule in Tip #1 and negotiate the price beforehand.

In Summary

Just be cool and like I said, be aware. Almost all of the drivers are good people and not out to get you. Unless you think they are, then you may start manifesting your expectations. Also, it’s okay to pay a little more than locals if you can afford it. Remember, even if you pay a bit more you’re still saving money compared to grab or owning a car and you are helping them out which is a win-win! I’d love to know your thoughts and if you have any other tips to share. Let me know in the comments!