Can I use a service like Lyft or Uber without a smarphone?

[marywantsmoney]

I don't have a smartphone but I'm going on a business trip soon. I'm staying at an Airbnb (long story). The conference center is 3 miles away from the house. How can I get there for cheap? I'm not from a city so this usually isn't an issue for me. The city is Charlotte.

[disneysteve]

I don't believe you can. I think both services are app-based. That's kind of the point to some extent.

I guess you could do a traditional taxi.

Check into public transportation options from where you are staying.

Is a bicycle an option? Perhaps the home owner has one that you can use. If not, look into the bike sharing service to see if that would work based on your location.

[pflyers85]

No, Uber and Lyft are app based. You can create a profile online but you have to have the App to arrange a pick up. Here are a couple website that has the taxi service rates in Charlotte and estimated fare. http://yellowcabofcharlotte.net/ratesreservations.aspx

http://www.taxifarefinder.com/main.php?city=Charlotte-NC

You could also look into renting an economy car, although you seem to be close enough that a cab would be cheaper unless you have some free time on the trip and would want a car to get out and explore the city.

[rennigade]

Time to find a new job. Any employer that sends an employee to a business trip and has them stay at an airbnb is out of their mind. You should convince them to allow you to stay closer to whatever building you need to be at. Just tell them you wont feel safe unless its at a hotel.

Also, no...you cannot use uber or lyft without a smartphone. There would be no way for the drivers to find your location.