How to Save Money Commuting (2024)

Commuting, whether by foot, bike, car, or public transport, is a daily reality for many. In the UK, the average commute takes 28 minutes, with driving being the most common way of travel. As the cost of living rises, finding ways to save on everyday expenses, including your commute, becomes crucial.

This blog offers practical tips to help you cut commuting costs and save money over time.

When commuting by private vehicle, there are several benefits and costs to consider.

Financially, owning a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing individuals to travel directly from their homes to their workplaces without relying on public transport. However, the costs include fuel expenses, parking fees, maintenance, and vehicle taxes.

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer a cost-effective alternative, with lower fuel costs and reduced maintenance requirements compared to traditional petrol or diesel cars. Additionally, EVs contribute to a greener way of travel and can be quicker for those in areas with limited public transport options.

However, Public transport can be more cost-effective than owning and maintaining a private vehicle, especially with options like monthly passes and railcards. Public transport is often efficient, particularly in well-connected cities, and reduces the hassle of driving and parking. Environmentally, it reduces the number of vehicles on the road, leading to lower overall emissions.

Public transport often proves to be a cost-effective way of travel. The primary expense is the cost of tickets, which can vary significantly depending on travel times, whereas additional fees may apply if you travel to the train or bus station by bicycle or car. Planning ahead and purchasing tickets in advance can help reduce costs.

While public transport can involve waiting times due to potential delays, it can be faster during peak times as trains and buses often bypass traffic congestion. Comfort might however be compromised, as seats may not always be available on busy routes.

Environmentally, public transport generally has a lower impact, especially with electric buses and trains. Planning your route to minimise transfers can help maximise the environmental benefits.

Commuting every day by car involves significant monetary costs, including ownership payments, vehicle taxes, servicing, MOTs, fuel expenses, and parking fees. Electric vehicles can reduce costs with home charging options, and the market for used EVs is becoming more affordable. Tolls, such as Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ), can also increase commuting expenses.

Travel time by car can vary, with faster travel during school holidays. Driving also offers flexibility in commute times and routes to avoid congestion.

Environmentally, commuting by car impacts emissions, though EVs and hybrids offer greener alternatives.

Ticket Buying: Purchasing season tickets can lead to significant monthly, quarterly, or even annual savings. Planning ahead and buying tickets in advance helps to avoid higher costs on the day of travel. However, if you’re committing to a specific transport schedule, ensure it aligns with your timings to avoid being late to your destination.

Exploring Different Routes: Starting your journey from smaller stations can result in cheaper fares and a quieter commute, while split ticketing through available platforms like Split My Fare can also reduce costs.

Change of Working Hours: Consider adjusting your working hours slightly to travel outside of peak times. For example, commuting after 10am or after 6pm can help you avoid the busiest travel periods, potentially reducing your travel costs and making your journey more comfortable with fewer passengers.

Bring a Hot Drink from Home: Bringing a hot drink from home not only saves money but also enhances the commute experience by eliminating the temptation to purchase drinks or treats. Additionally, using your commute time to enjoy a book or listen to a podcast can create a relaxing start to your workday.

Car Parking: Booking parking in advance or purchasing weekly or monthly tickets when available can help save money. You could even consider parking further away and walking or biking the rest of the way as this will also significantly reduce costs.

Cost-Saving Options: Exploring cost-saving options for your car commute can prove to be worthwhile. If multiple people who live in the same area are heading to the same destination, it may be worth considering car sharing. Splitting the costs of fuel and parking saves money each month and taking driving in turns makes it fair overall.

Electric Vehicles: Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) can save money in the long term, as the running costs are lower than those of petrol or diesel vehicles, especially if you can charge at home. Although the initial investment for an EV can be higher, the long-term savings make it a worthwhile choice.

Service Plans for Vehicle Maintenance: Reduce the running and maintenance of your vehicle by exploring the service plan options that are on offer. When you buy a vehicle, you want it to remain in the very best condition to retain its market value. With a service plan, you can spread the costs with affordable, inflation-proof monthly payments while ensuring you keep a full-service history.

Fuel Cost: Fuel prices can vary significantly across different stations. Avoid filling up on motorways or in city centres, where prices are usually higher. Stations outside the city tend to be cheaper, so it's worth trying different locations to find the best price.

Park and Ride: Park and Ride combines public transport and parking, offering a cheaper and more environmentally friendly commuting option. This can also reduce the stress of finding parking in busy city centres, though it may take longer, and availability can vary by city and location.