How to reduce the cost of commuting

Can you save money on your rail travel?

How often, when the tube has stopped running or the traffic has stopped flowing, have you wished for a good old-fashioned teleporter, like the ones you get in 70s Sci Fi.

There must be some people out there who enjoy their daily commute to work but for most of us it’s something to be endured. The best we can hope for is that there won’t be any delays, to prolong the misery. The fact that it has to be done is bad enough, but in addition there’s the cost, and it’s always one that is rising and rising.

It’s important for your physical and mental health to make your commute as congenial as possible and if you are able to trim the cost of your daily journey you can use that money to give yourself a treat. Here are some suggestions to get you thinking.

Can you save money on your rail travel?

A season ticket is probably your best bet, even though it’s a hefty initial outlay, but have you costed out your journey with a railcard? There are a range of railcards which you should consider.

The 26-30 Railcard costs £30 a year and gives you a third off all journeys and the Two Together Railcard offers the same level of discount but has no age restriction. Are you able to negotiate with your employer and agree on travel times which would allow you to avoid expensive peak travel?

Lift share

There are inconveniences to lift sharing, but it makes environmental sense and it makes financial sense. It also gives you a break from driving each day. Use this website to see if anyone is going your way.

Car Insurance

Especially for young drivers, car insurance is a major expense. Shop around to get the best deal here and consider having a telematics box fitted, it will encourage you to drive safely and efficiently and it could save you money on your insurance premiums.

Parking

Don’t leave your parking to chance and don’t pay more than you need to. Find the cheapest and most convenient place to park by using this website.

Walk or cycle

Alright, this may not be an option but if it is then why not give it a try. You might be able to transform a daily ordeal into an enjoyably healthy and environmentally friendly form of regular exercise.

There are times when you won’t feel like it, but the more you do, the easier it will become. If the distance seems a little too far to cycle then consider an electric bicycle, you’ll soon recoup the cost and it will decrease your journey time and give you a greater range.

Drive economically

If there’s no alternative to using the car then get in the habit of driving economically. The best fuel consumption is achieved at 55-65 mph. I know that this information is of no use when you are stuck in traffic, but if you are motionless for more than 10 seconds, turn the engine off. Heating doesn’t affect fuel consumption, but air con does, so does weight, so only ever half fill your tank. And those under inflated tyres? They are costing you money.

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