Getting home safely after a night out

By Chris Pollitt · Updated 8 November 2026

Getting home is the part of the night most people forget to plan. It’s 3am, your phone’s on 4%, the last train has gone and every taxi app is showing surge pricing. Sort it out before you go out and it’s easy.

Plan it before you leave

Work out how you’re getting home before you set off. Check the time of the last train or bus, whether there’s a night service, and roughly what a taxi will cost. Put the money aside so you don’t spend it at the bar.

Public transport

In London, the Night Tube runs on some lines on Friday and Saturday nights, and there’s a big network of night buses. Other cities have night buses too, usually at weekends. Check the times on the operator’s website or a journey planner app before you go, as services change.

If you’re relying on the last train, leave plenty of time. Venues are often a walk from the station, and missing it by five minutes is a long, expensive night.

Taxis

Only use licensed taxis or private hire cars you have booked through an app or a firm. Never get into an unbooked minicab that pulls up and offers you a lift. It isn’t insured to pick you up, and you don’t know who the driver is.

When an app car arrives, check the number plate, the car and the driver’s name and photo match before you get in. Ask “who are you here for?” rather than telling them your name. Share your trip with a mate using the app.

Many clubs have a taxi rank or marshalled pick-up point outside at closing time. Use it if they do.

Stay together

Leave with the people you came with. If you’re splitting up at the end, make sure everyone has a way home and send a message when you’re in. Don’t let a mate who’s had too much go home alone or walk off with someone they’ve just met.

Keep your phone alive

A dead phone means no taxi app, no maps and no way of contacting anyone. Charge it fully before you go out and take a small power bank. Some venues have charging lockers. Keep enough cash on you for a taxi as a back-up.

Walking

If you’re walking, stick to busy, well-lit roads, even if it takes longer. Stay off your phone so you know what’s going on around you. Walk with someone if you can. Some city centres have safe havens or street angels at weekends who can help if you’re stuck.

Driving

Don’t drink and drive, and remember you can still be over the limit the next morning. If you’re driving, you’re driving. Don’t get in a car with a driver who has been drinking or taking anything either.

For more, see staying safe on a night out, or find club nights near you.