How to Spot a Good Deal on DoorDash and Uber Eats
Food delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats make it easy to get your favorite fast food without leaving the couch—but convenience can come at a cost. Between service fees, tips, and surge pricing, it’s easy to pay double what you would in-store. The good news? There are smart ways to spot and stack delivery deals to keep your order affordable. Here’s how to get the best value every time you order.
- Compare Menus Before You Order
Restaurants on both apps often charge different prices for the same items. For example, a burger combo that’s $8.99 in-store could appear as $10.49 on one app and $9.79 on another. Before placing your order, open both Uber Eats and DoorDash to compare prices and delivery fees. Even small differences can add up when ordering for multiple people.
- Look for Promo Codes and Daily Offers
Both apps regularly offer discounts for new and returning users. These include:
- Free delivery for new customers
- $5 off your next two orders
- “Buy one, get one free” promotions at select chains
These deals are often found on the home screen or in the promotions tab. Restaurants like Chipotle and Wendy’s frequently participate in app-exclusive deals, especially during sports seasons or holidays.
- Order Directly from the Restaurant When Possible
Some fast food chains, including Domino’s and Panera Bread, offer their own delivery services or pickup discounts. Ordering direct often removes third-party fees and lets you use loyalty points, rewards, or exclusive offers not available on delivery apps.
- Schedule Orders During Non-Peak Hours
Ordering during lunch or dinner rush? You’ll often see higher delivery and service fees due to increased demand. If you’re flexible, try placing your order 30–60 minutes before or after peak periods. You may also unlock “Priority” delivery for free when it’s less busy.
- Use Gift Cards or Cashback Apps for Added Savings
Instead of paying with a credit card, consider using digital gift cards purchased through a cashback platform like Fluz. Many restaurants on Uber Eats and DoorDash accept gift cards for payment within their app or through direct ordering. With Fluz, you can earn instant cashback by purchasing cards for restaurants like:
You can also use Fluz to generate a virtual card that works with Apple Pay or Google Pay at checkout, giving you up to 1.5% cashback even if the restaurant isn’t on the app.
- Consolidate Orders to Maximize Value
Most delivery apps have minimums to qualify for free or reduced delivery. Instead of placing two small orders, group meals together. If you’re ordering for the family or with roommates, this can help you meet those thresholds and reduce per-item fees.
- Join DashPass or Eats Pass (With Caution)
Subscription services like DashPass and Uber One offer free delivery and reduced service fees for a monthly fee. These can be worth it if you order more than 2–3 times per month. But if your usage is occasional, it’s better to rely on one-off promos and cashback opportunities.
Conclusion
Ordering fast food delivery doesn’t have to come with sticker shock. By comparing platforms, using in-app deals, and integrating cashback gift cards from apps like Fluz, you can satisfy cravings without overspending. Just a few quick checks before checkout can turn a pricey order into a budget-friendly win.
