Random thought about driving vs public transport🚗🚌
On today’s episode of random thoughts — driving vs public transport.
Recently I started my new job and it is located at Raffles Place. The idea of driving there and getting a season parking did cross my mind, but the cost just wasn’t justified no matter how I thought about it.
$300-400 a month just for parking. Oof.
So I went back to taking public transport for a long time.
Yea, I was pretty pampered previously as I got to work remotely (also wrote a post about it). But that has changed with my new job, so I got to go to the office a few days a week.
_
For something that I was very used to doing for the bulk of my life, it felt a little rusty going back to taking the bus and train hahaha.
But what I discovered now about is better understand why people would prefer driving.
_
You might be thinking about the crowd.
Or the convenience.
Or the comfort.
Which, honestly, are not as good when you drive during peak hour. Seriously not fun.
Or you might think driving is faster.
Not really. If there is a jam on the road, you are almost certainly gonna take at least 45-60 minutes. Which is the same as taking public transport.
And being caught in a jam is very tiring!!
And public transport is significantly more affordable.
_
But I think what I learned to miss about driving is the concept of autonomy.
The ability to take my own actions and own it.
The freedom to make my own decisions and go with it.
That is the feeling I realized I missed.
_
If you are driving, you can decide when to go.
You can decide which route to take.
Even if there is a jam, you are controlling your speed and your route.
You are in control of your path.
On a public transport, that won’t be possible.
You decide the bus you want to take, but you can’t control when the bus comes.
The app might say 2 minutes, but it can easily be delayed and you can’t do anything about it.
The bus driver might decide to stop at every bus stop, wait 1-2 minutes before going off, you can’t do anything about it.
The train can be crazy crowded. You can’t board. You can’t do anything about it.
The level of autonomy is naturally a lot lower. And I think that is something a routine driver would feel.
That sense of control.
_
To own a car in Singapore is a luxury and privilege (more reflection here), while taking the public transport is also not something shameful. It shouldn’t be.
In fact, both are just ways of life. We choose what suits us the most.
Each has its pros and cons, just like everything in life.
Anyway, no right or wrong here ok! Just some random reflection as I unpack my own thoughts. Thanks for reading and as always, follow for more!
_
One thing I’ve noticed after switching from driving to public transport in Singapore is how much the cost difference impacts the decision. Monthly parking fees alone can reach $300-400, which is a significant expense to consider. Public transport not only helps save on parking but also reduces costs from fuel, tolls, and car maintenance. While driving offers a unique sense of freedom — deciding when to leave, which route to take, and controlling your journey pace — it also comes with the stress of unpredictable traffic jams during peak hours. I found that during rush hour, driving can be just as time-consuming as taking a bus or train. In fact, public transport, despite occasional delays or crowding, can provide a more predictable commute time. For seniors or those holding concession cards like the MyKi card, public transport offers additional affordability and convenience. Singapore’s extensive MRT and bus networks provide reliable coverage throughout the city, making it feasible to choose not to own a car, especially when considering car ownership expenses like COE and road tax. Practical lessons through programs such as the SSDC (Singapore Safe Driving Course) highlight the challenges and responsibilities of being behind the wheel, which also shapes many people’s preference for public transport. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal priorities: cost savings and environmental benefits versus the comfort and control of private driving. Both options are valid lifestyles and reflect different needs and values. If you’re considering switching or are on the fence, I recommend evaluating your commute time, budget, and daily schedule to find what truly suits you best.
👍