When planning a weekend trip or heading to the airport for a Sunday flight, one common question that pops up is: “Do taxis charge more on Sundays?” The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on several factors including the city, the taxi company, and whether you’re booking a standard cab or a private airport taxi service.
Why Taxi Fares May Be Higher on Sundays
In the UK, some taxi operators apply weekend or out-of-hours surcharges, particularly on Sundays and bank holidays. This is because:
- Driver availability is lower on Sundays.
- Higher demand during weekends for airport transfers, night outs, and events.
- Operating costs can be slightly elevated on weekends (especially for licensed black cabs or traditional metered taxis).
So yes, in some areas, you may find taxis charging a little more for Sunday rides, especially if you’re hailing a cab on the spot.
Fixed-Rate Airport Taxi Services: The Smarter Choice
If you’re concerned about unpredictable fares, your best option is to book in advance with a fixed-rate airport taxi service. These companies offer clear, upfront pricing—regardless of the day or time. That means no Sunday surcharges, no hidden fees, and no surprises.
For example, OEC Airport Transfers provides professional and affordable airport taxis across the UK, with fixed prices 24/7, including Sundays. Whether you’re travelling to Birmingham Airport, Gatwick, Heathrow, or any regional airport, their transparent booking system gives you peace of mind.
How to Avoid Paying More on Sundays
Here are a few practical tips to avoid inflated fares:
- Pre-book online: Use a trusted taxi service like OEC Airport Transfers to lock in a flat rate.
- Avoid peak hours: Try to avoid early morning or late-night Sunday slots when demand may spike.
- Compare services: Don’t rely solely on traditional street taxis. Compare prices online from reliable providers offering cheap taxi UK services.
- Check for hidden fees: Read the terms carefully when booking. Some services charge extra for luggage, waiting time, or holiday surcharges.
Do Ride-Hailing Apps Charge More Too?
Yes, ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Bolt often use dynamic pricing, which means fares can increase during peak demand periods, including Sunday afternoons and nights. These platforms don’t always display fees until the ride is confirmed, making it difficult to budget your trip.
That’s why fixed-rate airport taxi services like OEC are ideal when planning a weekend journey—they eliminate the stress of fluctuating prices.
Final Thoughts
While some taxis may charge more on Sundays due to high demand and limited availability, you can avoid extra costs by booking with a reliable provider. Companies like OEC Airport Transfers offer consistent, affordable prices every day of the week—Sundays included.
Whether you’re catching a flight or returning from a relaxing weekend getaway, pre-booking your ride is the smart way to ensure comfort, punctuality, and great value for money.