Who to Use Instead of Uber: Exploring Rideshare Alternatives for Every Need

Finding Your Next Ride: Who to Use Instead of Uber

It’s 10 PM on a Friday night, and you’re trying to get home from a friend’s place across town. You open your usual rideshare app, expecting a quick and easy pickup, but instead, you're met with a surge pricing notification that makes your eyes water and a projected wait time that feels like an eternity. This frustrating scenario is all too common for many of us. While Uber has become a household name, its dominance in the rideshare market doesn't necessarily mean it's always the best, most affordable, or most reliable option. Perhaps you're seeking a more ethical company, better driver compensation, or simply a more competitive price. Whatever your reasons, you’re likely wondering: who to use instead of Uber? Fortunately, the landscape of transportation is more diverse than ever, offering a variety of excellent alternatives designed to meet different needs and preferences.

I’ve certainly been there myself. I remember one particularly brutal winter evening, stuck in a blizzard with a canceled train and a desperate need to get to the airport for a flight. The Uber estimate was astronomical, and the app kept refreshing with longer and longer wait times. It was a moment that really drove home the importance of having a backup plan, and it spurred me to research and explore other options beyond the usual suspects. My exploration revealed that while Uber is convenient, it’s not the only game in town, and sometimes, exploring other avenues can lead to a significantly better experience and a more wallet-friendly ride.

This article is your comprehensive guide to navigating the world of ridesharing and transportation alternatives. We’ll dive deep into the most prominent players, discuss their unique selling points, and help you determine who to use instead of Uber based on your specific priorities. Whether you’re looking for cost savings, better driver treatment, specialized services, or simply more choice, you'll find valuable insights here.

Understanding the Rideshare Landscape Beyond Uber

Before we jump into specific alternatives, it's crucial to understand what makes the rideshare market so dynamic. The core concept remains the same: connecting passengers with drivers via a mobile app. However, the execution, business models, and rider experiences can vary significantly. Factors like driver pay structures, geographical coverage, service offerings (e.g., shared rides, luxury vehicles), and community impact all play a role in differentiating these services.

It's not just about getting from point A to point B anymore. Many newer or niche services are focusing on specific ethical considerations, aiming to provide better working conditions for their drivers. This, in turn, can often translate into a more positive experience for the passenger, with drivers who are more engaged and motivated. My own experience has shown that a happier driver often means a safer and more pleasant journey for everyone involved.

Furthermore, the concept of "surge pricing," while a core revenue driver for some companies, can be a major point of contention for consumers. Exploring alternatives might mean finding services that offer more stable or predictable pricing, especially during peak demand periods. This is a significant advantage for frequent travelers or anyone on a budget.

Lyft: The Most Direct Competitor

When most people consider who to use instead of Uber, Lyft is invariably the first name that comes to mind. As Uber's primary competitor, Lyft has carved out a significant market share with its distinct brand identity and, in many areas, comparable service offerings. Lyft often cultivates a friendlier, more community-oriented image, with drivers encouraged to engage positively with passengers and a focus on customer service.

Key Features and Offerings:

Ride Options: Similar to Uber, Lyft offers a range of ride options from standard Lyft rides to shared rides (Lyft Shared), premium vehicles (Lyft Lux), and even larger vehicles for groups (Lyft XL). They also have specific offerings like Lyft Pink for frequent riders, which provides discounts and priority service. Pricing: Lyft's pricing is generally competitive with Uber's, though it can fluctuate based on demand. They also employ dynamic pricing, but some users report it being slightly less aggressive than Uber's surge pricing in certain markets. Driver Compensation: While the specifics of driver pay are complex and debated across all platforms, Lyft has often been perceived as being slightly more driver-friendly in its commission structures and bonus programs. This can sometimes lead to better driver retention and potentially higher quality service. User Experience: The Lyft app is known for its intuitive design and user-friendly interface. The "fist bump" greeting, though now less common, contributed to its friendly brand image. Geographical Availability: Lyft operates in most major cities and many smaller towns across the United States and Canada, making it a widely accessible alternative.

When to Choose Lyft: If you're looking for a reliable, direct competitor to Uber with a similar service structure but a slightly different brand personality, Lyft is an excellent choice. It's often a good idea to compare prices between Uber and Lyft for your specific trip, as one might be more affordable than the other at any given time. I often keep both apps open when I need a ride, just to see which one offers the better deal at that exact moment.

Curb: Tapping into Traditional Taxis

Curb offers a fascinating hybrid approach, bridging the gap between traditional taxi services and modern ridesharing apps. Instead of relying solely on independent contractors, Curb partners with licensed taxi fleets. This means you might be getting a ride in a familiar yellow cab, but with the convenience of app-based booking, payment, and tracking.

Key Features and Offerings:

Integration with Taxis: Curb allows you to hail and pay for rides from local taxi companies directly through its app. This can be a significant advantage in cities where taxis are readily available and regulated. Fixed Pricing in Some Areas: A notable benefit of Curb is its "Curb Flat Fare" option, available in select cities. This allows you to book a ride with a guaranteed flat rate, eliminating the uncertainty of metered fares and surge pricing. Driver Professionalism and Safety: Because Curb works with licensed taxi drivers, there’s often a baseline of professional training and vehicle safety standards already in place. These drivers are typically employed by a company, which can lead to a different level of accountability. Availability: Curb is available in many major metropolitan areas across the United States. Its strength lies in cities with a robust taxi infrastructure. Payment Options: You can link your credit card to the app, but Curb also often supports in-car payment options typical of taxis.

When to Choose Curb: If you appreciate the professionalism and established infrastructure of traditional taxis but want the convenience of an app, Curb is a fantastic option. It’s particularly appealing if you value the possibility of fixed, predictable pricing, which can be a major differentiator from Uber and Lyft during peak times or in areas with heavy traffic.

Via: The Shared Ride Innovator

Via stands out in the rideshare market by focusing heavily on the "shared ride" model, often at a significantly lower price point than individual rides from other services. They achieve this by grouping passengers who are heading in similar directions into a single vehicle. This model is not only cost-effective but also aims to reduce traffic congestion and emissions.

Key Features and Offerings:

Shared Ride Focus: Via's primary offering is its on-demand shared ride service. You book a ride, and the algorithm intelligently matches you with other passengers to create efficient routes. Affordable Pricing: Due to the shared nature of the rides, Via is often considerably cheaper than a standard Uber or Lyft ride, sometimes even rivaling public transportation costs. Dynamic Routing: The app provides an estimated pickup window and route, and the driver may pick up and drop off other passengers along the way. This means the journey might take a bit longer than a direct ride, but the savings can be substantial. Geographical Limitations: Via's availability is more geographically restricted than Uber or Lyft. They typically operate in select cities and specific zones within those cities, often partnering with local transit authorities. Target Audience: Via is particularly attractive to budget-conscious commuters and students looking for affordable transportation, especially for longer distances within its service areas.

When to Choose Via: If affordability is your top priority and you don't mind sharing your ride and potentially taking a slightly longer route, Via is an excellent choice. It's ideal for daily commutes within its service areas or for getting around town when budget is a key consideration. Always check their app to see if they operate in your specific location.

Revel: Electric Mopeds and Ridesharing

Revel offers a unique blend of services, combining a fleet of electric mopeds for rent with a traditional rideshare service. While their mopeds are a distinctive feature, their rideshare service offers a compelling alternative, especially in their operating cities.

Key Features and Offerings:

Electric Vehicle Fleet: Revel emphasizes sustainability by utilizing electric vehicles for its rideshare service. This can be appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Professional Drivers: Like traditional taxi services, Revel drivers are employed and paid hourly, rather than being independent contractors working on a per-ride commission. This model is intended to provide more stable income for drivers and a consistent service for riders. Flat-Rate Pricing: Revel often offers flat-rate pricing for rides within specific zones, similar to Curb's flat fare option. This provides cost predictability, especially in areas prone to heavy traffic or surge pricing. Unique Moped Rentals: While not a rideshare, their electric moped rentals offer a fun and eco-friendly way to get around in their operating cities, providing an alternative for short-distance travel. Limited Availability: Revel is currently available in a limited number of major cities, primarily in New York City and a few other select locations.

When to Choose Revel: If you're in one of their operating cities and are looking for an eco-friendly rideshare option with potentially predictable flat-rate pricing and drivers who are employed rather than independent contractors, Revel is definitely worth considering. The focus on driver employment is a significant differentiator from the typical gig-economy model.

Arro: A Taxi-Centric App

Arro is another app that aims to modernize the taxi experience, similar to Curb. It partners with licensed taxi drivers and fleets, allowing users to book, track, and pay for rides through their smartphone. Arro positions itself as a way to hail a taxi with the ease of a rideshare app.

Key Features and Offerings:

Taxi Integration: Arro connects you with licensed taxi drivers, offering a familiar and often well-regulated mode of transport. Upfront Pricing: Arro often provides upfront pricing for rides, similar to other rideshare apps, which can help avoid surprises. Driver Payments: A portion of Arro's model focuses on ensuring fair compensation for taxi drivers, aiming to keep them engaged with the platform. Loyalty Programs: They sometimes offer loyalty programs or rewards for frequent users. Availability: Arro's availability is typically concentrated in major cities with a strong existing taxi presence, such as New York City.

When to Choose Arro: If you prefer to ride in licensed taxis but want the convenience of a modern app, Arro is a strong contender. It's particularly useful in cities where taxis are a prevalent and reliable form of transportation.

Wheels Up: Premium and Corporate Travel

Wheels Up (not to be confused with the private aviation company) is a rideshare service that often focuses on a more premium experience, sometimes catering to corporate clients or those seeking higher-end vehicles and service. While not as widely known for everyday commuting, they can be an option for specific needs.

Key Features and Offerings:

Premium Vehicles: Often emphasizes a fleet of newer, more luxurious vehicles. Professional Drivers: Drivers may undergo more rigorous vetting and training. Corporate Accounts: Frequently offers solutions for businesses needing reliable transportation for employees or clients. Targeted Service Areas: Availability might be concentrated in business districts or affluent areas of major cities.

When to Choose Wheels Up: For business travel, airport transfers where comfort and reliability are paramount, or if you simply prefer a more upscale experience and are willing to pay a premium, Wheels Up could be a suitable choice. It's less of a direct competitor for everyday, budget-conscious rides and more of a specialized service.

Beyond the Apps: Traditional and Niche Transportation

While rideshare apps have revolutionized urban mobility, they aren't the only way to get around. Sometimes, the best alternative to Uber might be a method that predates the app economy entirely, or a niche service designed for specific needs.

Public Transportation: The Underrated Champion

Let’s not forget the backbone of urban mobility for decades: public transportation. Buses, trains, subways, and light rail systems are often the most affordable and environmentally friendly ways to travel. While they might lack the door-to-door convenience of rideshares, they offer predictable routes and schedules and are immune to surge pricing.

Key Features and Benefits:

Cost-Effectiveness: Public transit is almost always the cheapest option, especially for regular commuters. Monthly passes can offer incredible value. Environmental Friendliness: Significantly reduces individual carbon footprints compared to single-occupancy vehicle rides. Reduced Stress: You can relax, read, or catch up on emails without the stress of driving or navigating traffic. Predictability (Usually): While delays can happen, public transit generally follows set schedules and routes, making planning easier. Accessibility: Most systems are designed to be accessible to people with disabilities.

When to Choose Public Transportation: For most daily commutes, short to medium-distance travel within cities that have robust transit systems, and whenever cost and environmental impact are primary concerns, public transportation is hard to beat. My personal experience in cities like New York and Chicago has shown that the subway can often be faster than a car during rush hour.

Traditional Taxis: Still a Viable Option

Even with the proliferation of ridesharing apps, traditional taxis remain a vital part of the transportation ecosystem. In many cities, they are regulated, well-maintained, and readily available, especially at taxi stands, airports, and major hotels. Some people prefer them for their familiarity, professional licensing, and the fact that they are often hailed on the street.

Key Features and Benefits:

Immediate Availability: Often readily available at designated stands or can be hailed directly. Professional Drivers: Drivers are typically licensed and regulated by local authorities. Metered Fares: While subject to traffic, fares are based on a meter, providing a standardized rate. Accessibility: Many taxis are wheelchair accessible. No App Dependency: You don't necessarily need a smartphone or data connection to hail a cab.

When to Choose Traditional Taxis: If you're at an airport or hotel where taxis are abundant, if you prefer not to rely on an app, or if you simply see a vacant taxi and need a ride immediately, hailing a cab is a perfectly good alternative to Uber.

Renting a Car: For Flexibility and Longer Trips

For longer journeys, road trips, or when you need maximum flexibility and independence, renting a car is a clear alternative. Services like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and others offer a wide range of vehicles for daily, weekly, or monthly rentals.

Key Features and Benefits:

Complete Independence: You control your schedule, routes, and stops. Suitability for Road Trips: Ideal for exploring at your own pace. Cargo Capacity: Larger vehicles can accommodate more luggage or group travel. Cost-Effective for Groups: For larger groups or longer durations, renting a car can sometimes be more economical than multiple rideshare trips.

When to Choose Renting a Car: For vacations, business trips requiring extensive local travel, moving, or any situation where you need personal vehicle access for an extended period, renting a car is the most practical solution.

Car-Sharing Services (Zipcar, Getaround)

Car-sharing services are a middle ground between traditional car rental and owning a car. They offer vehicles by the hour or day, typically parked in convenient locations within cities. This is ideal for occasional use without the commitment of ownership.

Key Features and Benefits:

Flexibility: Access to a car for short periods when needed. Cost Savings: Often cheaper than taxis or rideshares for longer errands or day trips. Convenience: Vehicles are usually located in easily accessible spots. Inclusivity: Many plans include gas and insurance.

When to Choose Car-Sharing: If you occasionally need a car for errands, a weekend getaway, or to transport larger items, but don't want the expense and hassle of owning a vehicle, car-sharing is a fantastic alternative.

Bike and Scooter Shares

For short distances in urban environments, bike and electric scooter sharing services (like Lime, Bird, Lyft's scooter service, etc.) have become incredibly popular. They offer a fun, quick, and eco-friendly way to cover short hops.

Key Features and Benefits:

Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions. Cost-Effective for Short Distances: Usually cheaper than a rideshare for distances of a mile or two. Convenience: Easily accessible and can often bypass traffic congestion. Health Benefits: Encourages physical activity.

When to Choose Bike/Scooter Shares: For short trips, navigating dense urban areas, or connecting to public transit hubs, these are excellent options, provided you’re comfortable riding them and they are available in your area.

Comparing Your Options: Who to Use Instead of Uber?

Deciding who to use instead of Uber often boils down to a few key considerations:

1. Cost

This is frequently the primary driver for seeking alternatives. While Uber can be affordable, its surge pricing can make it prohibitively expensive during peak hours. Here’s a general breakdown:

Cheapest: Public transportation, bike/scooter shares (for very short distances), Via (for shared rides). Mid-Range: Lyft, Curb, Arro, Revel (depending on flat rates). Premium/Variable: Uber (especially with surge), standard taxi fares (can be high with traffic).

My personal strategy involves comparing Uber and Lyft prices first. If both are too high, I'll check Via for shared ride savings or consider public transit if feasible. For longer, more predictable trips, I might even investigate a taxi app like Curb or Arro for potential flat rates.

2. Availability and Convenience

Uber and Lyft generally boast the widest geographical coverage and availability, especially in suburban and exurban areas. However, this isn't always the case.

Widest Availability: Uber, Lyft. Good Availability in Cities with Taxi Infrastructure: Curb, Arro. Zone-Specific: Via, Revel. Requires Planning/Specific Locations: Rental cars, car-sharing, public transport routes.

If you're in a major city, you’ll likely have many app-based options. In smaller towns, Uber or Lyft might be your only app-based choice, making traditional taxis or personal vehicles more important. I’ve found that in smaller cities, the local taxi company might not even have an app, so a simple phone call is the best route.

3. Service Quality and Driver Experience

This is a more subjective area, but it significantly impacts the ride itself.

Focus on Driver Employment: Revel aims for a more stable driver income, which can lead to better service. Traditional Professionalism: Taxis and services like Curb/Arro often involve drivers with established professional standards. Gig Economy Model: Uber and Lyft rely on independent contractors, where driver motivation can vary based on earnings, incentives, and personal circumstances.

While I've had great experiences with drivers across all platforms, I've noticed that drivers who seem less stressed about their immediate earnings (like those on hourly wages or with stable platforms) often provide a more relaxed and attentive service. This is purely anecdotal, of course, but it's a factor I consider.

4. Ethical Considerations and Sustainability

For some, the decision of who to use instead of Uber hinges on ethical practices and environmental impact.

Sustainability Focus: Revel (electric vehicles), bike/scooter shares, public transportation. Driver Welfare: Revel's model of employed drivers is often cited as more ethical than the gig economy model.

My personal choice often leans towards options that are kinder to the planet. When feasible, I opt for public transit, biking, or electric vehicle services.

Making Your Choice: A Step-by-Step Approach

Here’s a practical approach to deciding who to use instead of Uber for your next trip:

Assess Your Needs: What is your budget? (Most important factor) How quickly do you need to get there? (Urgency) What is the distance and route? (Commute vs. quick trip) Are you traveling alone or with others? (Group size) What time of day is it? (Peak hours impact pricing) What are your priorities? (Cost, convenience, comfort, ethics) Check Availability in Your Area: Open the apps for Uber, Lyft, Curb, Via, Revel (if applicable), and any local taxi apps. See which services are showing cars available near you. Compare Prices: Input your destination into Uber and Lyft to see their estimated fares, noting any surge pricing. Check Via for shared ride estimates if available. If using Curb or Arro, look for flat fare options or estimated metered fares. Consider the cost of public transportation (e.g., bus fare, subway ticket). Factor in the rental cost for car-sharing or traditional rentals if applicable. Evaluate Wait Times: Compare the estimated wait times for each available service. A slightly more expensive ride with a much shorter wait might be worth it. Consider Your Priorities: If cost is paramount, favor public transit, Via, or shared rides. If speed and directness are key and budget allows, compare Uber/Lyft for the shortest wait and price. If you prefer the familiarity of taxis, use Curb or Arro. If you value eco-friendliness, look at Revel or public transit. Make Your Booking: Select the service that best meets your criteria. It's often a good habit to have multiple rideshare apps installed on your phone to facilitate quick comparisons.

I find this systematic approach helps take the guesswork out of choosing a ride. Instead of defaulting to the most familiar app, I actively consider the options available and select the one that best fits the specific situation. It has saved me a considerable amount of money and frustration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Alternatives

How do I find out which rideshare apps are available in my specific city?

The best way to determine which rideshare apps are active in your area is to first download the most popular ones like Uber and Lyft, as they have the broadest coverage. Then, for more niche services, you can usually find this information directly on their websites. For instance, Via typically lists the cities where it operates. Similarly, Revel will clearly state its service locations. If you’re interested in taxi-based apps like Curb or Arro, a quick search for “taxi app [your city name]” can often reveal which ones partner with local taxi companies. Many regional or local taxi companies also have their own individual apps. Don't underestimate the power of a simple Google search; typing in "rideshare alternatives [your city name]" will often bring up local options you might not have considered.

Why might I choose a rideshare service that uses traditional taxis over one that uses independent drivers?

Choosing a rideshare service that partners with traditional taxis, like Curb or Arro, can offer several advantages rooted in the established taxi industry. Firstly, taxi drivers are typically licensed and regulated by local government authorities. This licensing process often involves background checks, driving record reviews, and sometimes specific knowledge tests about the city, which can instill a greater sense of security and professionalism. Secondly, many taxi companies have their own insurance policies that are separate from the individual driver’s, potentially offering another layer of protection. Furthermore, the vehicles used by licensed taxis are often subject to regular safety inspections and maintenance standards mandated by the city, ensuring a consistently reliable and safe ride. For some, the predictability of metered fares (though this can be affected by traffic) or the availability of flat-rate options in certain cities offered by these apps provides a welcome contrast to the dynamic surge pricing of other services. Lastly, for those who appreciate a more traditional approach to transportation or are hesitant about the gig economy model, these apps offer a way to support established local businesses and a familiar form of public transport.

What are the main drawbacks of using shared ride services like Via?

While shared ride services like Via offer significant cost savings and environmental benefits, they do come with certain trade-offs. The most prominent drawback is the extended travel time. Because the vehicle must pick up and drop off multiple passengers along the way, your journey will invariably take longer than a direct, private ride. The app typically provides an estimated pickup window and a projected arrival time, but these can sometimes be optimistic, especially during busy periods. You might also find yourself having to make detours to accommodate other riders' destinations, meaning your exact route might not be the most direct. Another consideration is personal space and privacy; you will be sharing the vehicle with strangers, which might not be ideal if you're looking for a quiet, private journey or if you have a lot of luggage. For those who are easily motion sick, the frequent stops and starts or the potentially winding routes could also be a concern. Finally, the availability of shared ride services is often limited to specific zones within certain cities, so they may not be an option for travel outside these areas.

How do companies like Revel ensure better working conditions for their drivers compared to Uber or Lyft?

Revel distinguishes itself by employing its drivers directly, rather than classifying them as independent contractors. This fundamental difference in employment model allows Revel to offer a more traditional employment structure. Drivers are typically paid an hourly wage, which provides a stable and predictable income regardless of the number of rides they complete. This contrasts with Uber and Lyft, where drivers' earnings are primarily based on per-ride fares, tips, and dynamic pricing, leading to income volatility. By employing drivers, Revel can also offer benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and workers' compensation, which are often not provided to independent contractors in the gig economy. This employee-based model aims to foster greater loyalty and reduces driver turnover. Furthermore, Revel often provides drivers with company-owned vehicles, which are maintained and insured by the company, reducing the financial burden and logistical challenges for drivers. This approach is intended to create a more sustainable and equitable working environment for drivers, which, in turn, can translate into a more consistent and positive customer service experience.

Is public transportation truly a viable alternative to Uber in all situations?

Public transportation is a fantastic and often superior alternative to Uber in many situations, but it's not a universal solution for every scenario. Its viability hinges heavily on the quality and reach of the public transit system in a particular city or region. In major metropolitan areas with extensive subway, bus, and train networks (like New York City, Chicago, or Boston), public transit can often be faster, cheaper, and more predictable than Uber, especially during rush hour. It's an excellent choice for daily commutes, traveling between popular urban centers, and for budget-conscious individuals. However, in suburban areas, smaller towns, or cities with less developed public transit infrastructure, relying solely on buses or trains might be impractical or impossible. The routes might be limited, the frequency of service low, and the travel times significantly longer. Furthermore, public transit typically doesn't offer door-to-door service, meaning you might still need to walk a considerable distance from a station or stop to your final destination, which can be inconvenient in inclement weather or late at night. For late-night travel, extremely remote destinations, or situations requiring immediate and direct transport, Uber or Lyft might remain the only convenient options, even if more expensive.

What are the benefits of using a car-sharing service versus renting a car for a weekend trip?

Car-sharing services like Zipcar or Getaround are often more advantageous than traditional car rentals for weekend trips, particularly if your travel is confined to urban areas or involves shorter, more frequent uses of the vehicle. The primary benefit is flexibility and cost-effectiveness for shorter durations. Car-sharing typically allows you to book a vehicle by the hour or for a half-day, and the pricing often includes gas and insurance, simplifying the process and potentially lowering the overall cost compared to a multi-day rental. The vehicles are usually conveniently located in designated parking spots throughout the city, making it easy to pick up and drop off without needing to travel to a rental agency. Traditional car rentals, on the other hand, are generally better suited for longer trips, road trips spanning multiple days, or when you need a specific type of vehicle not typically offered by car-sharing services. While traditional rentals might offer better rates for extended periods (like a full week or more), for a typical weekend where you might use the car for a few hours each day for errands or local exploration, car-sharing often proves to be the more economical and convenient choice.

The Future of Urban Mobility: A Diverse Ecosystem

The transportation landscape is constantly evolving. While Uber and Lyft remain dominant, the emergence of specialized services, the resurgence of public transit, and the growth of micro-mobility options are creating a more diverse and competitive ecosystem. The question of "who to use instead of Uber" is no longer a niche query but a mainstream consideration for smart travelers and commuters.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each alternative, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget, your schedule, and your values. Whether you're seeking the cheapest ride, the most sustainable option, or simply more choice, the alternatives are readily available. The key is to be proactive, compare your options, and remember that the most convenient app isn't always the best or most cost-effective choice.

My own journey into exploring these alternatives has been incredibly rewarding. It has not only saved me money but also introduced me to services that better align with my personal principles, like supporting companies with better driver treatment or prioritizing eco-friendly options. The next time you find yourself staring at a surge pricing notification, remember that you have a world of transportation choices at your fingertips, and often, the best alternative is just a few taps or a quick phone call away.