How to cut transportation costs as a college student

Since I've been in college I had to commute to school for me it isn't so bad since I'm not too far. However, other students have to use transportation which can add up over time. There are many ways to save on money for transportation costs.

1.Use Public Transportation and Student Passes

Public transportation includes buses, trains, and subways. Public transit can be more cost-effective than driving, which involves expenses for gas, parking, and upkeep.

• Student Discounts – Many transportation networks provide discounted or complimentary student passes.

• Plan Your Routes – Applications like Google Maps and Transit can assist you in navigating schedules, routes, and potential delays.

• Consider Monthly Passes – If you frequently commute, purchasing a monthly or semester-long transit pass can be more economical than paying per trip.

2. Carpooling and Biking to Save Money

If public transportation isn't an option or doesn’t fully meet your needs try carpooling or biking to cut costs.

Carpooling

• Find Carpool Friends – If you have friends or classmates heading in the same direction carpool together.

• Check School Rideshare Programs – Some colleges have carpool programs or bulletin boards where students can find ride-sharing opportunities.

Biking

• Invest in a Bike – A one-time purchase of a used bike can save you hundreds of dollars in transportation costs.

• Use Bike-Sharing Services – Many cities have affordable bike rental programs like LimeBike or CitiBike, which are perfect for short trips.

• Stay Safe use bike lanes when available and lock your bike securely.

3. Best Apps for Finding Cheap Rides

There are several apps that help college students find affordable transportation options:

• Lyft & Uber – Ride-sharing apps are convenient, but costs can add up. Use student promo codes, split fares with friends, and check for "Ride Pass" subscriptions to save money.

• Car rentals – If you need a car for the day, Turo lets you rent vehicles from private owners, often at lower rates than traditional rental companies.

• GasBuddy – If you do drive, GasBuddy helps you find the cheapest gas stations nearby.

  
  

Getting around as a college student doesn’t have to be expensive. With public transportation, carpooling, biking, and using budget-friendly ride-sharing apps, you can cut your transportation expenses. Share your tips in the comments!