It’s expensive to get around. Commuting to work, running errands, and even grabbing drinks with friends all have seemingly hidden transportation costs that sneak up on you. That’s because getting around is a part of daily life; there’s no real way to avoid it. So, what can you do to cut back on transportation costs without resorting to extreme measures? Here are six examples of simple and worthwhile adjustments you can start doing today.
Plan Trips Wisely
Before you hop in the car, take a moment to plan your strategy. Combine errands into one outing to minimize driving and save on gas. Think of it as an epic quest: “Today, I shall conquer the grocery store, the post office, and the dry cleaners—all in one trip!” Your wallet will thank you, and you’ll feel like a true transportation master, not to mention someone who knows how to make the most of their time.
Check for Discounts and Rewards Programs
Many transportation services offer discounts and rewards programs. Whether you’re using public transit, ride-sharing apps, or even renting a car, be sure to check for any available deals. You might find that your loyalty to that coffee shop down the street earns you a free ride home (or at least a discount on your next latte).
Bike Your Way to Savings
When was the last time you used your bike to get you from point A to point B? Many of us love biking as a leisure activity, but few of us harness the power it has to get us where we need to go. Riding a bike is a fantastic way to save on gas, parking, and gym memberships. However, you may want to bring a change of clothes if you’re biking to work; you can really work up a sweat that others in the morning meeting might not be too keen on.
Go For a Walk
If your destination is within walking distance, do yourself a favor and stretch out your legs. Walking is free and comes with the bonus of burning calories. This is particularly good for those who work desk jobs; you’d be surprised by how much a brisk walk can do to fight off that mid-afternoon slump. And you’ll save money while you get an easy but effective workout.
Try Carpooling
If you’re going to be stuck in traffic, you might as well make it a party! Carpooling is a fantastic way to split costs and reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Just remember to choose your carpool buddies wisely. You don’t want to be trapped in a car with someone who insists on blasting electronic music during your morning commute.
Use Public Transit
Probably the most obvious but efficient way to save on transportation is to join your fellow commuters on the morning bus or train. Save yourself often exorbitant costs on gas or parking while catching up on podcasts or reading your favorite blogs online (like this one!). It’s an underrated way to unwind after work—and something you just can’t get when you’re sitting in traffic in your car.
