uberPOOL is the most affordable way to Uber in Boston—it’s also eco-friendly, safe and reliable, and as easy to use as tapping a button. And while it’s difficult to argue with a cost effective transportation option that’s simple to use and has a positive impact on the environment, we get that some (we’re not saying you) may be hesitant at first to give it a shot—not because they don’t like the idea, but because it’s different. And it’s true, uberPOOL is different.

Since we completely understand that riding solo in the back seat and joining fellow Bostonians in the same car are not the same thing, we thought we’d put together a proper uberPOOL guide to help ensure you and your uberPOOL co-rider(s) are armed with the #POOLRules to help make your ride the best experience possible.

Follow these simple tips and you’ll be the life of the POOL party:

Tip 1

Please be prompt! You don’t want to make your co-rider wait, do you?
(Correct answer: No.)

Tip 2

Best to keep all cell phone conversations to a minimum. That means no impassioned arguments with your significant other about dinner reservations, or drawn out conversations with your loud (but lovable) best friend.

Tip 3

Consider chatting about the weather or your favorite sandwich, but perhaps avoid any heated political debate. (Note: Heated debates—of any kind— are typically not recommended while in confined spaces.)

Tip 4

Rides to the gym—uberPOOL. Rides home after you’ve been working out and sweating for an hour—you may want your own car (please). Generally, it’s best to gut-check whether it’s an appropriate time to POOL.

Tip 5

If you want to enjoy a snack, just run it past your driver. But let’s be sure it has a cover or a wrapper, and is mess and aroma-free.

Tip 6

It’s called personal space. Respect your co-riders and stick to your own seat.

Tip 7

Leave your baggage at home. Sharing a ride means sharing trunk space.

Tip 8

You only get a +1. Remember, you can only ride with one of your closest friends if you’re choosing to POOL.

The truth is, we all want to spend less on transportation, we all want what’s best for the environment, and we all want a relaxing, comfortable Uber ride. So why not join the uberPOOL party and jump on in?

New to POOL? Grab $5 off of your first uberPOOL trip with code POOLRULES.