How To Tackle Public Transit Traveling Alone
Are you a solo traveler who loves to explore new places, but don’t want to break the bank on movement? Then public transportation is the way to go! It’s cheap, easy, and convenient. In this post, we’ll take a look at why public transportation is great for solo travelers and how you can use it to get around your next destination.
The best aspect of public transport for me was always being able to immerse myself in the local movement of wherever I am going. We all know it’s not news that New Yorkers make their way through the subway, but how to navigate as a new independent pathfinder? I find freedom and versatility in public transport, and I hope this mini guide to this helps you!
- Bring necessary supplies to make the ride easy
If you want the ride to be part of your experience, pack some headphones, ultraportable, or a book to enjoy along with the ride.
No matter what method of movement, you always want your ride to be fast, efficient, and worry-free! If you want the ride to be part of your experience, pack some headphones, ultraportable, or a book to enjoy along with the ride. I’m a huge techy gal, so I always have some music to match my travel. A snack is never a bad idea either, just make sure your transit allows for food.
Sometimes, a slower ride is all part of the experience! On a train ride to a beach day, one of my favorite parts of it was being able to switch to a train with a higher platform, and letting the station checkpoint person hole punch my card! It made me feel like I was on the Polar Express. If you love taking in your surroundings, such as on a train or a bus, consider taking a handy multi-charger with you, and keeping all of your tools, media, and gadgets in a smaller bag to have everything tidy and moveable when you are!
2. Choose the best ride for you!
There are a number of factors that go into choosing the best type of ride when it comes to solo travel. In the way of public transport, trains and buses are usually the main methods. Some also use trams, which are lovely for sightseeing.
If you’re lucky enough to have a ferry or a boat as a means of travel where you are, it’s another opportunity to take in your sights as you float to your next destination. All aboard! (always wanted to shout that)
Keep in mind these elements when you are picking your method of travel:
- Do you have a specific location that can only be reached via one method, or several?
- Is there a specific time you need to travel?
- How much does all of it cost?
Some locations only offer one primary means, and you may have to adapt! If you are using a bus or a train, is it better to purchase a day pass for your needs, or something more substantial? Do the locals have shortcuts? Don’t be afraid to ask questions and do some research to see if you can stay one step ahead! The more organized and knowledgeable you are, the better!
3. Optimize your arrival and departure times.
When you travel alone, be sure to make the best of when you come and go using transit! One of the drawbacks is that no one is there to shake you awake if you oversleep, so plan to get to where you need to be a little earlier or later depending on the method of travel. Just think — you always want to make your plane, right? It’s the same with trains, trams, buses, etc. They have schedules too!
The weather can also be one of those elements of travel that throw a wrench in your plans! Don’t worry! Even if you have changes in weather, most places will update their arrivals and departures with delays. I utilize Google Maps often to see live, up-to-the-minute stats of where some schedules are coming and going! Do what works for you!
Relax and enjoy the experience!
This is often the first step in your solo travel journey. You’re off to a new city, or on your way to uncharted waters, so gear up and enjoy what it may have in store for you! Remember that everyone around is also doing their own thing too, and you may even run into someone going the same path as you. If so, grand! If not, just know that friendliness goes a long way. I have plenty of experiences coincidentally sitting with people who might share something in common with me, and it’s always lovely to meet a fellow pathfinder!
What is your favorite way to travel, and where? Tell me in the comments below!
First Time, Pathfinder?
No problem! My name is Marleena and I love to be on the move. The best thing about solo travel for me is being able to use my frugality, sense of direction, and curiosity to find some of the best places to eat, hang out, and capture. Plus, I love research! Let me do all the work and stay tuned/follow for tips and tricks about going it alone on your next adventure!
✨ Subscribe to my Medium articles for a regular dose of wanderlust-fueled storytelling and solo travel insights! 🌍📚
☕️ Love my content? Fuel my solo travel adventure blog journey on Ko-fi — your support keeps the stories flowing! 🚀❤️
📸 Follow me on Instagram @marleenawrites for behind-the-scenes + solo travel inspo. Let’s explore together! ✏️
💖 Clap, save for later, and drop your thoughts in the comments for solo travel conversation!
🌐 Found value? Share the adventure with a friend who needs a solo travel boost!
🗣️New? Start here!
