Don't be intimidated by using public transportation. While it is easier to jump in your car than it is to head to the bus stop or subway station, it is rewarding to know that you're decreasing emissions, alleviating traffic congestion and multitasking while you ride. After you've begun using your commuting time to get in some reading, work, people-watching or even a short snooze, you won't miss your car.
Figure out your potential cost savings for using public transportation. Don't forget to figure in gas and parking fees, along with estimated annual wear and tear on your vehicle. Visit the Sierra Club website for an interactive tool that calculates how much gas money you'd save by using public transportation (see Resources below).
Get a map of transportation routes and a schedule of local departure and arrival times, available at public transport stations or for download at transit system websites. Check out PublicTransportation.org to search for your public transit system by state or region (see Resources below). Some public transit websites even offer a virtual trip planner that generates a route map when you enter your starting and destination addresses.
Map out the most efficient route you can use, and determine which times works best for your commute based upon when you need to leave and arrive. In order to avoid being late, choose an early departure time the first few times you ride mass transit. This will help you get used to the process and make sure you have enough time to walk to your destination from the bus or train stop.
Find out what kind of ticket system the public transit system uses. While you can often use cash to ride the bus, most subway, train and light-rail systems require a validated paper or electronic ticket. Find out whether you receive discounts for purchasing fares in large quantities. Some transit systems offer monthly discounted rates or discounts for 10- to 20-ride passes, and many can be ordered online and shipped to your home. If you plan to use public transit on a daily basis, you could save significantly by purchasing bulk fares. Check with the regional transit authority for details.
Look into local fare discounts if you are elderly, disabled, a full-time student or a city employee. Some progressive companies even give employees financial incentives to use public transportation by defraying ticket costs or offering a transit allowance.
Don't assume that weekend and holiday schedules are the same as weekdays. Most transit systems have different schedules for Sundays and holidays due to decreased demand. Look online or at the hard copy of your transit schedule for details.
Find out whether bus transfers are included in your light-rail or subway fare. When you're traveling locally, you may need to take a bus from the subway or rail station to get to your final destination. Your city's transit policy may include bus transfers when you purchase other mass transit fares.
Allow other passengers to exit before you board your method of transit, ensuring a smooth transition and less wait time for everyone.
