Saving money is always a priority for college students. One of the best ways to do that is by using the best transportation options available. To help get you thinking about how to save on transportation before the fall semester begins, here is a short list of the most common options students can use, along with some perspectives you may not have considered yet.

  • Parking Passes: Buying a parking pass can be a great idea for students who commute. Look carefully first though at what you are getting for your money. You may be able to save by purchasing a “lower grade” pass that restricts you to lots further from campus, or by finding an off-campus parking space.
  • Living On or Near Campus: This is one of the most common ways that students try to save money on transportation. If you are not able to find housing on campus, or within walking distance as you would like, consider finding a place withing biking distance, or somewhere near a mass-transit system you can use.
  • Busing and Mass-Transit: Many universities have their own mass transit systems you can use. Also, you may be able to use city transit at a discount, or for free, with your student ID.
  • Carpooling: Carpooling sounds like a good idea, but can be difficult for students who often have conflicting and variable schedules. If you are in a position to carpool with someone, take the first step, and volunteer to drive or spring for gas money for someone who can.
  • Internet Courses: Be careful when considering internet courses as a way to save on transportation. If you don’t have all the computer resources you need at home, you may defeat yourself through the necessity of using computers you have to drive some place to use.
  • Scheduling: When making out your schedule for the next semester, keep in mind the number of times you will have to get to and from campus. You may be surprised at the amount of time and money you can save by compressing your on-campus time rather than spacing classes out throughout the week.
  • Auto Maintenance: Finally, if you have a car, and must use it to get to and from class, make sure you are keeping up the regular maintenance on your vehicle. Staying current on things like oil changes and tire pressure can dramatically increase the mileage you get out of the gas you buy.



Categories: General