For most parents, when you need to travel anywhere you will immediately grab the car keys. Driving is convenient and there are a number of benefits of this way of travel for families, but it is not the cheapest option. The cost of driving can eat into your monthly budget significantly when you factor in the cost of the car, fuel (a major issue right now), insurance, road tax and maintenance. Many households are feeling the squeeze, so what should you do to save money on travel?

 

Walking

Before jumping in the car, you should ask yourself if walking is a realistic option. Walking can be the best option because it is free, it is a great form of exercise and it is environmentally friendly. Walking with young children can also be helpful in terms of increasing their activity levels as well as showing them how to walk safely as a pedestrian – this can then help to develop their independence.

 

 

Scooters/Electric Scooters

Scooters can be a great and fun way to get around and are ideal for medium-length journeys. Electric scooters are also rising in popularity and can help you to cover ground quickly – just be careful when using these in public!

 

Cycling

Cycling is another good option for trips that are too far to walk. Cycling is an excellent form of exercise, it is free and there are no emissions involved. It can also be an enjoyable and rewarding way to get around and could save you a lot of money over the long term.

 

Train

For longer journeys and trips away, you should try to get the train instead of drive if possible. The train network in the UK is excellent and it is never too hard to reach your destination, plus you can book your tickets online. If you are planning a trip with the family on a budget, you could book a train ticket to a beautiful seaside town like Whitby from Leeds and be there within 90 minutes. This also means that you do not have the stress of driving yourself, so you can arrive feeling calm and ready to explore.

 

Electric Car

An electric car might cost a lot upfront (although they are getting cheaper), but they are a smart financial investment that will allow you to make huge long-term savings. You do not have to worry about the rising cost of petrol with an electric car or even have to pay road tax, plus you can also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that you are doing your part to reduce your environmental impact.

 

If you are looking to make savings on travel as a family then these are the best forms of transport that could help you to make big savings and bring other benefits to your family’s life.