Why we always try to use local transport

One of our absolute favourite things about travelling isn’t just the destination—it’s the journey. And no, we don’t mean the cliché “life is a journey” stuff. We mean the actual getting from A to B while we’re in a new place. That’s why, whenever we travel, wherever possible, we always opt for local transport instead of taxis or rental cars. It’s cheaper, way more fun, and gives us a real taste of the place we’re visiting. Let’s break it down.

1. It’s a Budget-Friendly Move

Let’s be honest: travel can get expensive. But one of the best travel budget tips is using public transport. A metro ticket in Paris? A couple of euros. A bus ride in Bangkok? Probably less than a pound. A tuk tuk? Who knows, but what can beat trying to squeeze a family of 5 into a tuk tuk? Compare that to taxis or ride-sharing services, and we’re saving enough to splurge on that extra ice cream. Plus, many cities offer travel passes that cover unlimited rides for a day or even a week—perfect for exploring on a budget.

2. Supporting the Local Economy

When we hop on a bus, train, or tuk-tuk, we’re putting money directly into the local economy. Instead of handing cash to a big corporation, we’re contributing to the income of local drivers, conductors, and transport workers. It’s a small but meaningful way to travel more sustainably and support the places we visit.

3. It’s an Adventure in Itself

Let’s be real—taking public transport in a foreign country can be an experience. Maybe we’ll find ourselves squeezed into a packed minibus in Morocco, trying to balance our backpacks while counting coins in a currency we barely understand. Or perhaps we’ll be zipping through the streets of Hanoi on the back of a motorbike taxi. These little moments? They make for the best travel stories.

4. We’ll See More Along the Way

There’s something magical about watching a city unfold from the window of a tram or train. Unlike taxis that take the fastest route, public transport lets us see neighbourhoods, street markets, and daily life as we pass by. We might even discover a cool café or a quirky bookshop we wouldn’t have spotted otherwise.

5. Meet the Locals (And Maybe Make a Friend!)

Travel isn’t just about places—it’s about people. And one of the best ways to connect with locals is by using their transport system. Whether it’s an old woman giving us directions on the underground, a chatty bus driver sharing his favourite spots, or a fellow traveller offering sightseeing tips, public transport puts us right in the mix of everyday life. Who knows? We might even make a new friend along the way.

6. Experience a key part of society

One of the most underrated parts of using local transport is how much insight it gives us into a country’s infrastructure. A smooth, punctual metro system speaks volumes about a city’s organisation. A chaotic but charming network of shared taxis? That tells us something too. Either way, we’re getting an authentic look at how a place functions beyond the tourist attractions.

So there you have it. Have we convinced you? Next time you’re travelling, skip the Uber and hop on a local bus, train, or tram instead. You’ll save money, see more, and truly immerse yourselves in the place you’re visiting. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of successfully navigating a foreign transport system—it’s like unlocking a travel achievement! So go ahead, grab that metro map, and dive into the adventure. Happy travels!