Cars are very expensive to run. We all wish we could use them a little less in our lives. There are just too many reasons why we use the car instead of walking, cycling or taking public transport. However, with a little bit of extra forward planning, and some clever accessories, you may be able to quit the car for a day or two a week. If you want to save some cash, save the environment, or just get a little fitter, check out our response to the top 4 driver’s excuses.
“Public transport is too expensive”. If you’re determined to get rid of your car, public transport is usually a cheaper alternative. Think about the monthly repayments, insurance, taxes, registration, servicing and maintenance costs for cars. They add up to thousands in a single year, and that’s before you add the fuel on top! Perhaps you’re just looking to cut down your driving by one or two days a week. You can calculate the cost of the fuel you use for certain journeys that could be done on foot, by bicycle or by public transport.
“Cycling in the rain is too unpleasant”. It can be horrible to turn up to work soaked through, but most people who cycle wear weather resistant clothing. They can then dry off and change into formal attire when they reach the office. When you factor in the morning rush hour traffic, cycling may actually get you there quicker. Find a good quality backpack, and you can cycle to the supermarket to pick up the ingredients for your evening meal.
“My kids can’t walk that far”. Lots of parents are encouraging their kids to walk more and more. If your journey is only a mile, your preschooler can look to tackle this with just a little practice. If you’re worried they will be too tired, and you have to carry them, think about taking a foldable buggy. If your child is still in the pram, be sure to pack something like the Uppababy raincover to keep them warm and dry in bad weather. Wet weather wear for children is a good investment, especially if they want to be in the park come rain or shine!
“It’s too far for me to walk”. A good pace for an adult to walk is about three to four miles per hour. That means you can cover a couple of miles in little over half an hour. If you are walking, you may even be able to take scenic shortcuts to reduce the mileage and the time. Walking every day is essential to good health. If you feel you don’t have time to fit it in, consider it a workout, saving you having to find time for that exercise class later on.
Driving is not only expensive, it’s stressful and dangerous. Walking or cycling for all or part of your journey can substantially improve your health and fitness. Even if you do this only once or twice a week, you will reap enormous benefits. Save some money, the environment, and your health by cutting out one day of driving a week.
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