5 minute read
Some students may think being in college without a car is impossible. However, in reality, not all students need a car. In fact, those who live and study on campus may never need to use a car, at least not during the week. However, there still are occasions and urgent plans that require some form of transportation. So let’s explore the most common options for getting around the city without the car. Knowing the available transportation options in your college town should help you get everywhere on time and reduce the stress of traveling. These are the common options you should consider.
Always plan ahead
First of all, students should always be aware of their schedules, times, and preferred routes. You should learn in advance the distance and the time needed to get from point A to point B without being late. As a result, various travel options available to you should be suited to the created time schedules for each trip.
Hence, you should also take some time to explore your campus and surrounding territory on foot or a bicycle. See where you can cut corners and find the most efficient ways around. Plus, you may discover special places to rest or study during the breaks.
In addition, you need to be extra careful with all time-sensitive activities like job interviews, exams, or medical appointments. These trips require special planning.
Ride shotgun with friends
Let’s start with the obvious one. You can always ask your friends for a ride. For example, you can create carpooling strategies or just ask them for a ride whenever needed. Of course, it may not be the most suitable or reliable way to get around the town. Your friends may be busy at times when you need to travel or have issues with a car, etc.
However, carpooling options can also be a great way to connect with new people, make friends, and arrange more environmentally-friendly trips. Plus, there is a high chance that most people you meet in college will have a car and will gladly help you out time by time. Such an option is especially convenient when you already travel to the same event or have similar study schedules in school.
Public transportation
Let’s not forget about the public transportation options. Depending on where you live, you can have several travel options, from buses to metro. All these options can work fine for long and short-term trips around the town. You can look up the transport schedule ahead of time and find routes that fit your needs best.
The main benefits of such an option are its cost, accessibility, and predictability. Transport will arrive and stop at special locations and certain times, making it super easy to plan your trip and manage your further movement. In addition, public transport can create unique opportunities to observe a new city following bus routes. It helps you immerse into the city routine and become accustomed to new streets and territories.
Lastly, you can use trips on public transport for learning or doing homework. Thus, you can read books, learn how to write an essay on cyber bullying, or check your notes while traveling.
Use a campus shuttle
Most large schools have their own transport available for students during the day. You can use such campus shuttles to reach different buildings around the campus or travel to school busing outside the campus. In some cases, school shuttles can take students to the nearest shopping centers and supermarkets, bus/train stations, and other priority locations.
Of course, you need to know the shuttle’s schedule and be ready to wait for it in line. On the bright side, such an option can be either free or very budget-friendly, depending on the school’s policies. Plus, you can meet other students on your way between classes. It can be a rare chance to chat in person, share speedypaper discount codes, discuss study issues, etc., considering your busy school days,
Biking
Biking is a popular travel option worldwide. It is a great way to arrange independent and eco-friendly travel. Plus, you don’t have to have a bike to use this method. Many colleges or cities have public bike programs. Some colleges even have bike-sharing programs. This method should also be very safe since most campuses and cities have special bike-friendly infrastructure.
If you rent, use public bikes, or have your own bike, you still save a lot of money on gas or taxi rides, making this option highly cost-efficient. Just beware of theft and keep your bike secure. Don’t leave it without a lock or in sketchy areas of the city.
Walking
Depending on the weather, distance, and your love for walking, you can travel to campus on foot. Surely it is not the ideal option, especially if you have little time to spare. Still, it can be quite a nice replacement for using any transport whenever you feel like it and have free time.
Building a habit of walking instead of riding can take you a long way (literally and metaphorically). It can be a great lifestyle change, strengthening your health and physique. In addition, long daily walks are also great for your mental health. It is a perfect opportunity to meditate, observe, and recharge.
