In order to save money, I bought myself a bus pass since it’s so cheap at the student rate. (One Zone). If I take the bus religiously, we’ll be saving roughly 60 dollars a month on gas, and 20-30 dollars a month on car insurance. Quite compelling since that pays for an entire bill. Add the $60.00 a month I shell out on parking… Lots of money to save.
The disadvantage? Time. It takes roughly 10-20 minutes longer to get to the destination than going by car. Also, it forces me to adhere to more of a rigid schedule. The car provides so much more flexibility since I’m not worried about when the next bus will come and what would happen if I missed it.
So the past week or so, I’ve been bussing it. surprisingly, the transit system is a LOT better than it was when I was going to UBC. Busses are on time, transfers are quick and the best part of it: I don’t have to stress out driving here and there, battling traffic and battling my exhausted body trying to stay awake on the wheel. Also, I can read and study on the bus without any fear of bumping into the guy in front of me.
If you have a few minutes, take stock of how much money you’re putting into your car and if taking the bus is feasible. Most people, myself included, get used to routine that they don’t stop to think if there’s an opportunity for improvement. Try the bus. It’s much better than you think.
The downsides are days when it’s raining cats and dogs and you have to walk 15 mins to the nearest bus stop. The other thing that bugs me about it is that I have to leave the house 1 1 hour earlier than if I drive by car. However,I do like the fact that I have less stress because I don’t have to work. May I’ll do it in the summer 🙂
I take the skytrain occasionally during the summer. It is less flexible, but it’s nice to sleep, read, rest on the train & it feels good to do a little bit to help save the environment. For the winter, I just can’t bear with the cold and rain. Although with all the crazy drivers dashing around for last minute shopping & fighting for car parks, I might take the train when I go shopping. Actually, maybe I can just walk to Pacific Centre. =P