Commute to Work Smarter: Your Guide to Happier Journeys

Work commutes include setting out to make that daily journey from home to your workplace and then back home. And it takes a good chunk of your day. Driving is the first thing on most people's minds when thinking about how to commute to work. But there are other options, and certainly, driving won't be the best decision for everyone.

If you're looking for wiser, more economical commuting options, you've come to the right place. Scroll on! We'll show you some of today's hottest commuting options. And we've added some useful tips to help make commuting less stressful, despite the hustle and bustle of city life.

Types of Commuting

1. Driving (Your Own Car)

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Is it better to drive or commute?” Let's consider the pros and cons of driving, so you can decide whether it's the optimal choice for your commute to work.

Now, let us start with these perks!

Pros

One of the best benefits of having your own car is the complete flexibility. You can leave when you wish, take the scenic route, or swing by your favourite coffee shop on the way in. It's also handy if you have to drop the kids off or give someone a ride on your way to work.

There’s the comfort factor too: you’ve got your own space, your playlist, your temperature settings… and no noisy passengers next to you. Whether you’re carrying your laptop, gym backpack, or even a few painting supplies, driving to commute to work all fits in easily.

If you live in the suburbs or out in the countryside, a car can be more of a necessity than a luxury. Public transport links can be sparse, and if your job involves travelling to different locations throughout the day, driving can save you a lot of time and hassle.

Having a car of their own provides commuters with total control and comfort. Photo by Kostiantyn on Adobe Stock

Cons

And, of course, there are some downsides to choosing to drive to work:

That being said, daily driving isn't necessarily the cheapest or most convenient choice. What with gas, upkeep, insurance, and parking, it can get pretty expensive. For most, it’s more expensive than a monthly train or bus pass.

And then there's traffic. Being stuck in a jam with no way out can be extremely annoying, especially if it's going to make you late. Let alone the frustration of trying to find a parking spot when you arrive.

And the environmental impact. Single driving contributes to air pollution and carbon emissions, which is not great for the planet or our lungs.

2. Public Transit (Bus, Subway, Light Rail, Commuter Trains)

If you’ve ever thought, “Is it better to drive or take public transport?” – you’re not alone. 

Let’s weigh up the pros based on what it’s really like out there!

Pros

First of all, it's cheap. No gasoline, no high-priced parking, no car problem. Just your fare money, and if you buy a month or year pass, it's even cheaper than paying by the day.

And then there's the planet. Ditching the car and using the bus, train, or tube cuts your carbon footprint by a massive proportion. In fact, studies show replacing car travel with public transport can reduce CO2 emissions by more than 40% on buses and more than 70% on trains. That's a success all the way around.

It also helps you use your commute time in a more meaningful way. Instead of driving yourself crazy, you can handle important emails, review for the next day, or just unwind to a great audiobook or podcast. Some even capitalise on the moment to squeeze a few pages in of reading or language study.

Cons

And certainly, choosing the bus or train to commute to work is not always rose petals and sweet tea.

Delays do happen, sometimes because of staffing shortfalls, equipment failure, or just bad luck. When your train is running behind or your bus doesn't show up, it can ruin your whole day and leave you feeling flat before you've even punched the clock.

If you're out in the suburbs somewhere or in the middle of nowhere, your options are not really that great. You can expect longer travel times and even have to pay more money for additional transport in between.

And then there's rush hour. Tubes and trains become really cramped during rush hour, never mind other times of the day. You could be packed in like a sardine with barely any room to breathe, and if it's a hot day, well, let's just say it's no great start to the day. And overcrowded areas happen to be also a hotbed for pickpocketing as well, so you'd best be on your guard.

3. Biking

Got a bike? Well, you've already got a way to commute to work. Whether it's your trusty old mountain bike or something a bit more streamlined, it'll do. But if pedalling a few miles leaves you feeling knackered, you might want to take an electric bike instead. It'll push you along nicely without leaving you breathless.

Pros

Why it's a winner:

Firstly, cycling doesn't cost your bank account or the earth. You won't be shelling out for fuel or car maintenance, and you'll be cutting emissions into the bargain. And it's much quieter than a car, so you're also keeping the roads a bit quieter, too.

It's wonderful for your health, too. Commuting to work on a bike can burn off calories, can make you fit, and can get your heart into top condition. And don't forget the mood-booster, cycling releases all those vital feel-good endorphins, which calm tension and get your head clear for the day ahead.

And parking. Forget driving around the block looking for a space or paying outrageous prices. Most city government buildings offer bike racks or bike rooms, and in a pinch, you can generally secure your bike to a railing or post (where allowed, of course).

You will be fit because cycling to work will keep you in good shape.

Cons

What to look out for when cycling to commute to work:

Now, the weather’s the real wildcard. Riding in blazing sun, heavy rain, or strong winds isn’t exactly a joy. So, if you’re cycling to work regularly, it’s worth investing in a good waterproof cycling backpack to keep your gear dry, including your laptop and even your lunch!

Safety may also be a concern where the cycling infrastructure is substandard. If your path does not have adequate bike lanes or proper signs, then it might not be the safest route. And if that is so, it is okay to look for alternatives.

And finally, cycling isn’t for everyone, especially if you’ve got a long commute or loads of tricky turns. It can be time-consuming and physically tiring, as no one wants to show up to work completely drained with a sweaty shirt. So think about your route and energy levels before committing.

4. Walking

If you’re lucky enough to live close to work, ditch the car as walking might just be the best way to go.

Pros

So, why is it great to commute to work on foot?

For starters, it's completely free. No gas, no maintenance, and absolutely no bother. And it's also the greenest option on the planet, with zero emissions to speak of. And if you keep it in good shape on a regular basis, walking is also wonderful for your body. Your muscles get toned, your metabolism goes up, and you might even sleep better at night.

It's also a top mood-improver. With each walk, you dispense endorphins (those lovely feel-good hormones) so you're even a little lighter on your way to work. Need to take your commute to work to another level? A light backpack like the CabinZero (with clever laptop pockets) will have you comfortable and organised on the route.

A walk to work is twice the fun with a friend alongside.

Cons

And a couple of points to bear in mind:

Of course, walking isn't for everyone, especially if your workplace is miles away. A long walk would exhaust you, make you sore, and even get you late. It really is only worth thinking about if your route is short and straightforward.

It also depends on where you live. If where you live has bad pavements, crossing points, or proper lighting, walking might not be so safe, you know, especially at night.

And then, of course, there is the weather. Rain, snow, or ice can turn a peaceful stroll in the park into a muddy horror. Icy footpaths? Treacherous and slippery. And though it is not likely, personal safety can also be a concern during late-night solo walks, so it is always best to stay alert.

5. Ridesharing & Carpooling 

If you're hopping in an Uber, taking a neighbourhood ride-hailing app, or carpooling with a group of coworkers, ridesharing and carpooling are wise options that save you money. And to add to it, choosing these economical ways to commute to work will benefit the planet, too.

Pros

Now, so whyare we urging you to give it a shot:

First up: the savings. Splitting the cost of petrol, tolls, and parking can seriously cut down your monthly travel expenses. Your wallet will definitely thank you. Plus, sharing the ride means less traffic on the roads, which can significantly reduce emissions and air pollution.

Sharing the ride can bring people closer. Photo by Andrey Popov on Adobe Stock

Thanks to those apps like Uber, Bolt or Lyft, it’s also really easy to arrange. With just a few taps on your phone, you’ve got a lift sorted. This makes it ideal not only for your daily commute to work but also for last-minute plans after hours.

Cons

That being said, ridesharing is not as flexible as driving alone. You'll typically have to follow a set pick-up time or route, so you have less freedom to drop off for a cup of coffee or make a side trip if you're late.

There can be the occasional glitch, too. Drivers occasionally cancel, or you spend more time waiting during rush hour or bad weather. And when you're driving with other folks, your commute in the mornings is interrupted if someone's running late or cancelling at the last minute.

What to Prepare for a Daily Hassle-Free Work Commute?

Here are four friendly tips we’ve learned over the years (and still find useful today) that can make your commute to work a little easier:

1. Pack Your Essentials The Night Before

This tiny trick will give you a few minutes of additional time to sit and eat in peace during your breakfast or coffee at home. Make sure to take your laptop, working documents, earbuds, adapter, purse or wallet, your keys, and a water bottle.

A fine work backpack like the CabinZero will easily hold all of them. An even better idea will be to provide a shoulder air flow system, which will allow travelling from home to office in peace.

2. Set Your Alarm Slightly Earlier

Believe us, getting up just 30 minutes earlier (particularly on Monday mornings) can make your commute to work feel a whole lot smoother. No longer having to shove your toast down your gullet while clutching the steering wheel or desperately trying to grab a bus or train!

3. Make A Playlist Of Your Favourite Songs

This is definitely one of ours, and we think you will like it too. Whether your favourite tunes or some language lessons, a good playlist will breeze past your trip and be much more enjoyable. Alternatively, a good audiobook can do the same, and you’ll find yourself 

4. Tilt Your Seat A Bit More Comfortably

If you're investing time driving across the country, a neck pillow is a saviour to keep your neck from hurting. And a little bit of aromatherapy, like mint, vanilla or citrus, or whatever suits your taste, can make you feel calmer and alert in the car. And so, you'll have a better day beginning.

Factors Influencing Commute Choice

Still wondering, “What is a good commute to work?” Look over some of the key points below that can help you decide what is best for your situation:

1. Where You Live Makes A Huge Difference

If you're in the city, you've got lots of options. Underground and buses are usually the most convenient, because of all the connections. And if you're up to it, cycling is a good idea: it's cheap, quick, and you won't have to search for a parking place.

In the suburbs? Parking at your local station and taking the train is one of the simplest options. It’s a good compromise because you save petrol on the longer part of the journey but still enjoy the comfort of your car for part of the way.

Living in the countryside? You’ll probably need your own car – there’s just not as much public transport around. That said, if you’ve got neighbours heading the same way, carpooling can be a great way to split fuel costs and make the ride a bit more social.

2. Your Job And How Flexible Your Schedule Is

If your job has strict start times (like clocking in at 8 or 9 sharp), then driving your own car is probably your safest bet. You’re in control of your commute to work and don’t have to worry about delays.

But if you've got a little more leeway, why not use it? Using public transportation during off-peak hours or taking your own bicycle can allow you to miss out on rush hour.

And for all those people who are always on the move (maybe your job is keeping you scouring locations or interviewing clients), then a vehicle, an app that summons you a ride, or even carpools will grant you the freedom of movement without the stress.

And for those always on the go (maybe your job that involves prospecting sites or client meetings), a good car, an Uber, or even a ride with colleagues may be a time-saver. These options absolutely give you the freedom to move around without the added stress.

Try rideshares, they’re flexible and can save you money. Photo by Alfonso Soler on Adobe Stock

3. Your Budget And Transport Access

Where you reside and how much you make can really affect the way you travel to work.

If you're steady with money and have a small amount of financial leeway, owning a car could be justifiable. It offers you comfort, alone time, and the freedom to drive your commute to work in any manner you please.

But if you’re working with a tighter budget, don’t worry, a monthly bus or train pass can go a long way (espcially true of you are a digital nomad). And if you’re driving, carpooling is a smart way to save on fuel without giving up convenience.

Live by a train stop or have some decent bike paths? That's a major bonus. It makes it that much simpler to abandon the car now and then and give a greener (and often less expensive) alternative a shot.

4. What's Most Important To You

We all have our own set of priorities, and they can totally dictate the manner in which we travel.

If you are green-conscious, taking the bus, bike, or ride-sharing is a great way to lower emissions and your carbon footprint.

If health is more important to you, cycling or even walking the rest of the way to work can do wonders, just try thinking of it as sneaking exercise into your daily routine.

And if convenience is top of your agenda, having your own motor is unbeatable. Listen to your favourite music, have the air-conditioning just the way you like it, and stop wherever you want to. No need to ask for anyone else's permission.

A Stress-Free Commute to Work

As we’ve seen, each of these commute to work options comes with its own set of pros and cons. The best way to figure out what works for you is to try out a few options or even mix and match. Then see which one feels quickest and most convenient. Also, don’t forget a reliable travel mate: CabinZero backpack. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, no matter how you’re travelling, and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Quyen Pham