Last week we let you in on secrets to maximize your savings while flying. But what about other ways we can save on transportation?
Most of us cannot imagine living life without constantly driving our cars. In less you live in a big city, it sometimes seems impossible to find any other way to get around. Luckily, transportation solutions are popping up everywhere, and many of them are campus-friendly! Whether you are on campus this summer or returning in the fall, read on for some transportation tips. You will probably find that you can apply these in your hometown or any other place you may visit.
Take apartment shuttles. It can be rough living off-campus when you have to commute every day. If you find yourself wanting to spend less on gas, consider taking advantage of the shuttle that your apartment complex offers. Most apartment complexes in West Lafayette have them, and they usually run hourly, so you can be dropped off and picked up during times that work for your classes. Apartment shuttles usually take you somewhere central on campus, like Stewart Center. It might beat the drive and walk from wherever you park! You don’t need to request the shuttle; simply head to the designated pick-up location at your apartment or on campus, and you should be all set. It is a benefit that comes with your apartment, so don’t be afraid to use it!
Utilize CityBus. Did you know CityBus is a contracted partner with Purdue? That means that students, faculty, and staff ride free! CityBus spans all Campus Loop routes and also has nine regular routes throughout Greater Lafayette. All you need is your Purdue ID to hop on. CityBus runs by many apartments and by all of the residence halls. With all of the routes offered, you can even take it to the mall! All routes, as well as real-time bus information, are available online and at the front of every residence hall.
Ride your bike. Purdue and the surrounding area is very bike-friendly. There are specified bike lanes on campus, and many parks that are perfect for bike riding. It is a common occurrence in the area, so most pedestrians and vehicles know to be aware of bike riders. Just remember to wear a helmet and be safe! Not only will riding a bike save you gas money, but it will also help our environment and be a great way to get some exercise! Don’t have a bike? No problem. Keep your eyes peeled for the teal bikes on campus (they are everywhere, so hard to miss!). These are VeoRide bikes. All you have to do is download the app, scan the code to unlock the bike, and you’ll be enjoying a nice ride! Simply return it to any bike rack when you are finished. For more information on VeoRide, click here.
Carpool. Do your roommates and friends all drive to campus or to the store just like you? If you really want to take a car but still want to save, think about carpooling! If you take turns being the driver to class or the grocery store, you will all be spending less on gas and giving less wear and tear to your vehicles. Plus, you’ll have company!
Take up a new hobby related to transportation. Have you been dying to get back on rollerblades? Want to try longboarding? Give it a go! You may not go long distances with options like these, but it might get you to class quicker or allow you to make a short trip that you otherwise would have had to move your car for. Purdue has a club for everything it seems, so it can be quite easy for you to find friends that share a love for the hobby you’d like to take up. They can teach you a thing or two about it!
Research airport shuttles. Many of you fly home for breaks instead of driving the long distance to maximize your time with family. It can take quite a bit of gas to get to the airport, not to mention the costs associated with leaving your car at the airport. If you can’t find someone to take you to the airport, taking an airport shuttle may be a better option. Lafayette Limo regularly runs to the Indianapolis Airport, and may be a cheaper option in the long run.
Whether by bus, bike, or longboard, we wish you happy travels!
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