Summer is the perfect time to explore the south coast. Whether you’re commuting for work, visiting friends, or embarking on a local adventure, there are plenty of budget-friendly travel options available. Here are the best and cheapest ways to travel around this summer.
1. Use Public Transportation
Buses and Trains
Public transportation is one of the most cost-effective ways to get around. The bus and train networks in Brighton & Hove, East Sussex, Kent, and Medway are extensive and reliable.
- Brighton & Hove Buses: The city has a good bus network, with frequent services covering the city and surrounding areas. You can save money by purchasing a Saver ticket, which offers unlimited travel for a day or longer periods. Members of Wave Community Bank can also save 20% on CitySAVER & NetworkSAVER Annual Tickets from Brighton & Hove Buses and you can apply for a loan to spread the cost. You ca find out more about the Bus Ticket Loans here.
- Southern Rail and Southeastern: Trains are a convenient option for traveling longer distances. Look for off-peak tickets, railcards, and group travel discounts to save money. Check out Southern Railway and Southeastern for schedules and fares.
Park and Ride
If you prefer driving part of the way, park-and-ride services are a great way to save on parking fees and reduce congestion in city centers. Brighton & Hove has several park-and-ride locations, making it easy to park your car and take a bus into the city.
2. Cycling
Cycling is an eco-friendly and affordable way to travel, especially in the summer and there are several cycling paths and bike-friendly routes for you to explore:
- BTN BikeShare: In Brighton & Hove, the BTN BikeShare program offers bike rentals at low rates. You can pick up and drop off bikes at various locations across the city. Visit BTN BikeShare for details.
- Cycling Routes: Explore scenic cycling routes such as the Cuckoo Trail in East Sussex or the Viking Coastal Trail in Kent. These paths offer beautiful views and a safe environment for cyclists.
3. Walking
Walking is the most affordable way to get around and offers a chance to explore the local area up close. Here’s some ideas on where to walk around:
- Brighton & Hove: Stroll along the iconic Brighton seafront, explore the historic Lanes, or hike up to the South Downs for breathtaking views.
- East Sussex: Discover the charming streets of Lewes or take a walk along the Seven Sisters cliffs.
- Kent and Medway: Wander through the historic towns of Canterbury and Rochester, or explore the coastal paths in Whitstable and Margate.
4. Carpooling and Ride-Sharing
Carpooling and ride-sharing can significantly reduce travel costs, especially for longer journeys.
- Liftshare: Liftshare is a popular carpooling platform in the UK. You can find people traveling to the same destination and share the journey, splitting the cost of fuel. Visit Liftshare to find or offer a ride.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Apps like BlaBlaCar connect drivers with passengers heading in the same direction, making it easy to share travel costs.
5. Affordable Car Rentals
If you need a car for a short period, consider affordable car rental options.
- Zipcar: Zipcar offers car rentals by the hour or day, with locations throughout Brighton & Hove and other major towns. Membership includes fuel, insurance, and mileage, making it a cost-effective option. Check out Zipcar for more information.
- Enterprise Car Club: This service provides flexible car rentals with vehicles available in Brighton, East Sussex, Kent, and Medway. You can rent cars by the hour or day, and fuel is included. Visit Enterprise Car Club for details.
Exploring the south coast doesn’t have to be expensive. By taking advantage of public transportation, cycling, walking, carpooling, and affordable car rentals, you can enjoy the local without stretching your budget.
Enjoy your summer adventures and travel smart with these budget-friendly options
