If they’re comfortable accepting money, you don’t necessarily need to calculate exactly how much every individual journey costs. A reasonable weekly or monthly contribution toward fuel may be simpler. The amount can depend on the distance, how often you’re riding together, whether the driver makes a detour, and local fuel costs.
For example, someone who is picked up five days a week and adds several miles to the driver’s commute should probably contribute more than someone whose home is directly along the existing route.
But money isn’t the only way to make the arrangement feel fair.
If your coworker insists that they don’t want anything for fuel, you can still show appreciation. Buying coffee or breakfast occasionally, treating them to lunch, giving them a fuel gift card, or helping them with something they need can communicate the same basic message: I notice what you’re doing for me, and I appreciate it.
There are also smaller considerations that can make a surprisingly big difference. Be ready when your coworker arrives rather than making them wait. Give them plenty of notice when you don’t need a ride. Don’t automatically expect them to change their plans around yours, and understand that there may be days when they simply cannot drive you.
