Getting to Class: 5 Travel Modes You Should Know
Wrenching yourself out of your warm bed to commute to class sucks, but it has to be done. Here are 5 ways you can get to class, complete with the pro and cons.
Updated 08 May 2019
Wrenching yourself out of your warm bed to commute to class sucks.
Sadly, it’s an everyday affair with no escape in sight (unless you’ve magically enrolled to an institution that blissfully doesn’t require any physical presence). However, commuting to class doesn’t have to be the end of the world.
We’ve come up with a list of ways for you to get to class, pros and cons included. So get ready to compare all 5 and choose the option that suits you best!
#1. Walking to class
Pros
If you’ve been meaning to squeeze in some light exercise before you get to class but have no time for the gym, walking to campus will be the perfect way for you to do this. Besides requiring absolutely no money whatsoever, physically trekking your way to class reduces your carbon footprint and is good for the environment. Plus, all that fresh air outdoors can also boost your creativity.
Cons
Unfortunately, you might have to look for an alternative to walking if you live more than 15 minutes away from campus — or risk being late. If you have a long way to walk, be prepared to brave both rain and shine and accept the fact that you may look as if the weather took its toll on you (too bad a sweaty face and windswept hair is not in trend).
TLDR: Good if you live a short distance from campus as you can walk safely and arrive just in time. Not a good option if you live very far away and prefer to arrive looking pristine and fresh.
#2. Cycling to class
Pros
You’re helping both yourself and Mother Nature by cycling to class, way to go! Psst, unlike your classmates who drive or take public transport, your cyclist self is a happy one as exercising elevates your mood, not to mention the mastery and skill of whizzing away on a bike beats sitting in a car.
Don’t have your own two-wheeler? Hop on an oBike, which is widely available at public spots. A 60-minute ride only costs RM1 if you choose to use the dockless bicycle sharing service.
Cons
However, cycling’s not for you if biking to campus is hampered by how far away home is. Similar to walking, you’ll have to deal with the weather and might appear sweaty and out of sorts when you arrive to class. You might also have helmet hair if you’ve been cycling for a long time. Aside from that, if you forget to lock your bike, you risk having it stolen and that can leave a big dent in your wallet.
TLDR: Good if you don’t live too far from campus and if you already own a bicycle. Opt out if you stay further away.
#3. Taking public transport
Pros
While we moan and groan about the pain of boarding trains and buses to class, it’s a relief to sit back (or stand and grip for dear life on a hanging strap) and let someone else drive.
Remember gritting your teeth while spending a good hour stuck in traffic jams? That’s a thing of the past once you’re on the LRT, lucky you. Not to mention your finances will be in better shape as public transport is generally less expensive than owning a car. Think of the 50% discount from MyRapid that you’re entitled to as a student!
Cons
Although public transport may sound like a godsend, there are plenty of annoying things about it. Rush hour mania will have you packed into a train or bus filled with strangers during peak hour, unreliable departure times and oddly-timed schedules can ruin your plans and long-winded routes will add hours to your daily commute.
TLDR: Good if you have public transit stops near home. Say nay if you like your privacy and have heard your fair share of public transport horror stories.
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Start now#4. Carpooling with a buddy
Pros
Prefer to drive but would like it better if you had a buddy next to you? Carpooling is for you. Being able to split the cost of petrol is a definite perk, while chatting away with your friend is another bonus. It’s also a good way to make new friends if you’re just starting college — you’ll have the whole commute time to get to know your new carpool pal. On top of that, you’ll also escape the sweltering heat and pouring rain as you’re safe and dry inside your car.
Cons
Nonetheless, there are some distinct cons to carpooling. Having to share space with others in a car after a bad day might magnify your bad mood. You’ll also face a headache syncing schedules with fellow carpool riders. There’s also the question of money, in which one person might claim they shouldn’t have to chip in for petrol because they didn’t carpool together on a certain day.
TLDR: Good for students who like driving and want to save some cash, as well as those who don’t mind being in the passenger’s seat. Steer clear if you value your privacy.
#5. Driving solo
Pros
There’s always good ol’ driving by yourself when the options above aren’t feasible. What’s there to lose when you can travel on your own schedule, sing along badly to your favourite songs without judgement and can go anywhere you please?
Cons
Driving is generally the most expensive way to travel to college apart from taking a Grab. Think of petrol, insurance, car instalments, maintenance, parking… the list goes on! It’s also the least environmentally-friendly mode of transport. But the worst thing about driving would have to be the traffic jams during peaks hours — so have your favourite playlist or podcasts ready to avoid feeling stressed and bored when you’re stuck in one.
TLDR: Good for you if you live far away from class and if you’re able to afford car-related costs. But if you don’t have your own car, take the public transport route instead.
And there you have it, 5 solid ways you can get to class, complete with the pros and cons for each option. There’s no denying your commute will influence how you begin and end your day, so think carefully before you decide to go with one of the options above. Good luck and have a safe journey!
Wonder what it’s like to hop on the train or bus everyday? Here are annoying things about taking public transport in Malaysia.
Melissa Mazlan
Your friendly Klang representative who enjoys romantic walks to the fridge.
