Public transport or carpool? Strategies that save more every day
What's the story
Commuting is more than just a journey from home to office — it's a daily grind that takes a toll on both time and wallets.
With soaring fuel prices and rising public transport fares, managing travel costs has become a tricky balancing act for Indian professionals. But don't worry — saving on your commute doesn't have to mean sacrificing comfort or safety.
From smart travel hacks to tech-driven solutions, here are proven strategies to cut commuting costs.
Sharing rides
Opt for carpooling or ride-sharing
Choosing carpooling or ride-sharing options can significantly cut your daily commuting costs.
By sharing a ride with coworkers or using ride-sharing apps, you can save up to 50% on both fuel expenses and toll fees.
It not only reduces your individual cost but also contributes to easing traffic congestion and reducing environmental pollution.
Public commute
Embrace public transport
Traveling by public transportation such as buses, trains, or metro services is a cost-effective solution for daily commute.
For example, a monthly pass for local trains or buses in major Indian cities would cost approximately ₹1,000-₹2,000, significantly less than the fuel cost of driving a car the same distance.
Plus, several cities provide concessional passes for frequent travelers.
Two-wheel travel
Consider two-wheelers for short distances
For shorter commutes, particularly within 10-15 kilometers, choosing two-wheelers is significantly more cost-effective than cars.
These vehicles offer lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs, making them an economical choice.
Recently, electric scooters have become increasingly popular due to their even lower running costs compared to conventional petrol-powered two-wheelers.
This move toward electric alternatives indicates a rising consciousness and demand for more sustainable and cost-efficient transportation options among commuters.
Remote work
Work from home options
Turns out, if you can't get a raise, there might be another way to negotiate with your boss: ask for work-from-home days instead.
Choosing to work remotely even two days a week would cut commuting costs by almost 40%.
It would not only save money but also the precious time wasted in traffic.
Trip planning
Plan and combine trips
Planning your trips efficiently is a smart way to cut down on commuting costs. How?
By combining several errands into one trip, you can eliminate unnecessary driving and conserve fuel.
Plus, avoiding peak traffic hours can drastically reduce fuel usage. Less time spent idling in traffic jams means less fuel wasted.
Not only will these habits save you money, but they'll also make your trips a lot less stressful.