Best Forms of On-Campus Transportation
Whether you commute to school, live nearby, or reside in a dorm, getting around campus can sometimes feel like a hassle. Thankfully, there are various forms of accessible transportation to help you out. Don’t be like me and attempt to skateboard around a hilly campus with beginner skills, because it will not end well. Save yourself from the scrapes and bruises and read through this helpful list to find a method that’s best for you!
Long-Distance Transportation
If you live farther from campus, the following options can save you time and money.
Car
Out of all the options, this is one is pretty obvious. A car can be the most convenient option, but it can also bring some extra expenses like parking fees and gas. Depending on the college, campus parking may range from hourly fees to a semester-long permit. See what options your college provides and consider how they fit within your budget. You should also account for what kind of car you drive and consider routine expenses like gas and maintenance. Regardless of make and model, you should be prepared to handle any unexpected emergency expenses.
You can also consider carpooling and splitting the cost of gas and/or parking. This can save you a lot of money while also giving you and your friends some extra time to bond!
Moped
On my college campus, mopeds are a popular mode of transportation for a number of reasons. Many students prefer this option because of a moped’s speed and compact size.
I was always very envious of students with mopeds, because parking was always a hassle for me, while mopeds could be squeezed easily into the tiniest of spots. If you choose this option, remember to wear a helmet and stay aware of your surroundings!
Rideshare
Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are a convenient and affordable method of transportation; you can move directly from point A to point B for just a few dollars. Most rideshare companies offer monthly passes for frequent riders as well as the option to ride with other people and split the fare.
The rideshare service can also be used as a good backup plan when your other modes of transportation are unavailable. Going to miss the bus? A little late for school? A rideshare can be a quick, convenient way to make your commute to class less of an issue.
Bus/Train
Opting to take a bus or train to campus is one of the least expensive options available to you.
Public transit usually doesn’t cost much, and your campus/city may even offer students discounted or free rides. Riding a bus or train can also give you more time time to work on assignments or take a quick nap to get you ready for your school day. Just make sure you’re aware of when you should get off, or else it can become a very long ride! (Trust me, it’s happened to me a lot.)
Medium- to Short-Distance Transportation
The following options are helpful for students who live closer to campus. They work for students who live far from campus, too, but they could take a bit more time and effort.
Bike
Bikes are the classic campus method of travel. It’s a great way to get some cardio in, save time, and avoid paying for parking (though you should make sure to check whether your campus requires a bike permit). Please remember to lock your bike! Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for some students to have had their bikes or bike tires stolen. To help prevent a theft, register your bike, use a high-quality lock, and park in areas that are densely populated with other bikes.
If you don’t own a bike, find out whether bike-sharing services are available where you live. Most major cities are equipped with rentable bike stations. All you need to do is visit a station, use the monitor to rent a bike, and then park it at another station closest to your destination. Of course, you should be aware and wary that bikes are not always available when and where you need them.
Skateboard/Longboard
If you are experienced and know how to skateboard or longboard, you’re able to utilize a compact, parking-free method that can save you a lot of hassle. Like I said before, please do not choose this option if you are not confident in your abilities, because it can be dangerous. If you are capable, you can zoom around campus and always have your wheels at the ready. You can even buy electric skateboards that require less effort!
Scooter
Scooters may have been all the rage during your childhood, but the recent rise of ride- and bike-sharing apps have given them a great platform to be popular among adults as well.
Electric scooter rental services are popping up all over the country. Their process is similar to that of renting a bike: you download an app, find a scooter, rent it, and leave it parked safely at your destination. Ride prices vary depending on the duration or length of your ride but can still be a cheap option. Make sure to follow local regulations and be aware of your surroundings.
Must apply the safety measures.
Walking
This isn’t always the popular option—it’s probably a dreadful idea for most. It’s slower than the others, but it’s also the freest! Besides, it’s good for your health to take a walk anyway.
Make getting your degree easier by choosing the most convenient way to get to class. Remember always to prioritize your safety; if you ever feel that an option may be safer for you, use it regardless of its price. Your security is most important.
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