Sometimes, public transportation in big cities can be a bit labyrinthine. From fighting your way through the crowded subway station to catching a bus that has just passed your stop, moving from one place to another can often be much more stressful than it should be. But what if I told you that with a few tips and tricks, you could easily breeze through your daily commute without breaking a sweat?
City slicker or newcomer to the bustle, this guide will walk you through how to uncover a few helpful hacks to maximize your use of public transportation. These simple yet effective tips can make a huge difference in your daily routine, saving you time, money, and even a bit of sanity.
1. Know Your Transit App Inside and Out
First things first, technology is your friend when it comes to public transportation. There’s an app for everything nowadays, and knowing the right ones to use can seriously streamline your commute. Take Google Maps: just because it helps you with driving doesn’t mean it doesn’t have the capability to let you know, in real-time, when exactly buses and trains arrive. Many cities also offer their own transit apps, updating users in real time about delays, service disruptions, and alternative routes.
A personal story: The first time I used a local transit app in a new city, I felt like a pro within hours. Previously, when I didn’t know the app existed, I’d always wait for ages at the bus stop or get off at the wrong stop because I didn’t know the schedule. Now, with my phone in hand, I can plan accordingly and save me from wasting hours of my precious time in frustration.
2. Beat the Rush Hour by Timing It Right
Ah, rush hour-the bane of every city commuter’s existence. The good news is, with a little planning, you can avoid the worst of it. If you can control your schedule, try commuting during off-peak hours. That means taking trains and buses when they aren’t crowded. Most cities have very defined patterns for rush hours, typically between 7-9 am and 4-6 pm.
If you can’t avoid the rush, there are little things you can do. For example, you could try walking a bit further to that less crowded stop. Sometimes, another few minutes’ walk will put you on a less-packed train or bus. Trust me, you’ll be thanking yourself when you’re not squished up against 20 other people.
3. Head for the Quiet Carriage
For those of you who ride the subway or commuter trains, here’s one you may not know: avail yourselves of the quiet carriage, if your transit system has one. The quiet carriage is that part of the train where people who want to have a quiet ride without the loud conversations and hustle and bustle of the other sections of the train sit.
On my morning train rides, I find that sitting in the quiet section not only helps me get mentally prepared for the day, but I can also get a bit of extra work done or simply relax without distractions.
4. Pack Snacks and Entertainment
Commuting on public transport can sometimes feel like a long haul. To help with searching for ways to make the journey more enjoyable, always carry a small snack or drink with you. Not only will it keep you refreshed during those long waits or delays, but it’ll also help keep your energy levels up. Plus, carrying a water bottle will help you avoid buying overpriced drinks at stations or on the train.
But let’s not forget about the fun: download podcasts, audiobooks, or playlists to brighten up the ride. In my opinion, I know listening to an audiobook or favorite playlist while driving, my time on the road appears so short that the next thing I see, I’m arriving and wearing a big smile on my face.
5. Get the Right Passes or Cards
If you are going to use public transport a lot, invest in a transportation pass or card. Many cities have monthly or annual passes that could save you money. Instead of buying one ticket daily, these usually offer unlimited rides within a set time. Many times this is way cheaper than buying a single ticket every time.
I learned this lesson the hard way when I first started using the metro in my city. I was paying for single rides daily, and over time, it added up. Once I switched to a monthly pass, I felt like I was saving a ton of money—and I didn’t have to worry about finding change every time I got on a bus or train.
6. Take the Right Precautions to Stay Safe
Public transportation is generally safe, but it is always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings. Personally, I feel that keeping my phone out of sight unless I’m using it tends to minimize my attracting attention. And if possible, try to ride in areas of the bus or train that are well-lit and near other passengers.
For example, when I have to take late night buses, I try to sit as close to the driver as possible. It’s safer that way, and also more comfortable. Most big cities also have areas around station entrances that are well-lit and populated, so waiting for your bus or train in these spots makes the whole experience a lot more safe.
7. Learn the Back Routes and Hidden Stops
One of the most practical hacks in relation to public transportation in big cities is knowing routes that less people take. Every city has its shortcuts, and once you get familiar with them, you’ll be able to navigate more quickly and efficiently. For example, if there is a less crowded subway line or bus route that would get you to your destination faster, why not take it?
I recall once being shown a ‘hidden’ route when I was running late. It then became my new favourite to take since, by not taking the main line, you miss stops which are busy with people, so you can also reach your destination in record time.
Public Transport Doesn’t Have to Be a Hassle
There is no need for transportation in big cities to be such a big headache. With just a few simple hacks-knowledge of the app, the time it gets really busy, the back routes-you can make the process a whole lot smoother, quicker, and even a little fun. The bottom line is that when you are comfortable with the nuts and bolts of your city’s transportation, every time you go out, you save time and feel more confident and less stressed.
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