When assessing your expenses, it is important not to miss your commuting costs. Getting to and from work can take up more of your salary and budget than you may expect, so being vigilant about these expenses is key.
If you have already realised your commuting expenses are sky-high, you are probably curious about saving money — and that is where we come in.
Today, we are looking at ways you can save money on commuting without working from home. We will save the work from home vs commuting argument for another day! Keep reading to learn how to ditch your expensive commute now.
Even the most expensive commutes can be mitigated. Here are five ways to lessen your work travel expenses.
We will kick things off with the most obvious suggestion: Swap to free transport methods.
Yes, a train or car is more comfortable than cycling or walking to work. But these comfortable picks can quickly rack up costs. Before you know it, you are paying thousands a year for tickets or petrol.
Where possible, walk, bike or scooter to work. It is understandable if you choose to avoid these on wet or cold days. But when spring and summer roll around, slice your expenses by choosing these affordable alternatives.
If you live near friends and family or neighbours who work in the same area and on the same schedule as you, it could be beneficial to create a carpool group.
In a carpool, you drive to work together in one vehicle. This means people only pay for petrol when they drive, thus saving costs. It is also great for the environment and means that you only have to navigate through traffic when it is your turn to drive to work.
However, this option only works if you have a work route similar to people nearby. Some local governments organise carpooling services. So, check these out to meet new commute buddies.
Unfortunately, this tip won’t apply to all readers. However, it might help a few who have forgotten about or not investigated whether they have employee benefits.
Stipends and reimbursements from your employer can help you save on travel costs. For example, some companies provide reimbursements for those who cycle to work or take public transport rather than drive.
This can help you save on an expensive commute and inspire you to make healthier choices, such as cycling or walking.
If most of your commuting expenses are petrol, work towards making smart fuel savings.
For example, you can make your fuel go further if you keep up with car servicing, avoid harsh braking and acceleration, and ensure your tyres are correctly inflated.
Stop-and-go traffic jams can also guzzle petrol. Take quieter routes wherever possible.
This tip to save money on commuting might not be possible for all drivers. However, consider an electric or hybrid option if you are in the market for a new car.
EV and hybrid cars can slice your petrol expenses while also reducing your carbon footprint. A win-win!
Alternatively, if you have more than one car in the family, use the more fuel-efficient one for long drives and work commutes.
Commutes can be expensive. But with reflection and a few small changes, you can reduce your costs and save some extra disposable income. Hopefully, these tips have inspired you to make a change.
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