We here at the SDC have had our fair share of anxiety-inducing moments upon realising that we might have either misplaced or left our belongings somewhere. We’re pretty sure you can identify, especially if you’re as forgetful as we are.

But some people seem to have the universe rooting against them as one Uber driver revealed a list of the weirdest things that were left behind by customers, ranging from a brand new TV to very, ahem, ‘personal’ possessions.

Uber just released its annual ‘Lost & Found Index’ that tracks both unconventional and mundane items its customers have left behind while on a trip – and this year definitely warrants an award for the most hilarious mistakes made.

As Covid-19 cases start to dwindle, it’s unsurprising that plenty of Aussies have been out and about more often.

“With travel back in full swing and with Mercury in retrograde influencing forgetfulness, we're back with Uber's annual Lost & Found Index,” announced Head of Rider at Uber ANZ Margarita Peker.

“From a prosthetic eye and a sewing machine to a sentimental metal straw and a leaf blower, Aussies and Kiwis have been more forgetful than ever this year.”

Well… That’s odd… Image Credit: ABC News​

“As we continue encouraging the country to get going again, we look forward to helping return these lost items – no matter how bizarre they may be!'

Perth ranked first as the most forgetful Australian city while Brisbane ranked as the least forgetful. The five most commonly left behind items were: a phone or camera, keys, a wallet or purse, backpack, and glasses.

Over the past year, Aussies may have stepped it up with the odd and hilarious items that they've left behind during their Uber trips, including burger buns, a leaf blower, an electric scooter, a SpiderMan costume, and a 65 inch TV, just to name a few.

One person left behind a photo of a koala and another a blonde wig – I mean, how wacky can these items get?

Among the silly list of things left behind are: an adult toy, a breath testing device, a Dyson vacuum head attachment, a Gucci belt, a sewing machine, a kettle, and a toaster.

How to retrieve an item. Image Credit: Gadget Hacks​

If you ever forget an item and only realise it after taking an Uber home, the best way to retrieve it is to call your driver. However, if it was your phone that you left behind, you can always access your account via other gadgets such as a computer or a tablet.

If you’re still unsure how to navigate the Uber application, follow the steps below to retrieve a lost item:

1. Click 'Your Trips' and select the trip where you left something.

2. Scroll down and tap 'Find lost item'.

3. Click 'Contact driver about a lost item'.

4. Scroll down and input the mobile number that you prefer to be contacted at before hitting the ‘Submit’ button.

5. If your driver picks up the call and confirms that your item has been found, coordinate a mutually convenient time and place to meet up so they can return it back to you.

What’s the weirdest item you’re willing to admit to leaving behind in an Uber or taxi, or on public transport? Share your confessions with us in the comments!

 

[Ricci]

Living rural we don't have anything as fancy as uber, we're lucky to get one bus per day!!