Transport costs ‘fuelling cost-of-living crisis’

Getting from A to B, whether it’s to go to work or do your weekly shop, shouldn’t break the bank.

But new IPPR research suggests that transport costs are putting serious pressure on people’s budgets.

New figures show that the average UK household spends £87 a week on transport.

And that goes up to £108 if they own a car.

But for many, poor public transport links mean that going without a car simply isn’t an option.

Transport costs hitting low-income households the hardest

The IPPR points out that people on low incomes typically travel much less than higher earners.

However, they’re spending a much bigger share of their income on getting around.

Figures show that the poorest fifth of households spend 18% of their income on transport.

That’s almost double the average of 11%.

And for poorer households that own a car, a staggering 25% of their income goes on keeping it running.

What can be done?

The IPPR believes that transport costs are “fuelling the cost-of-living crisis” and has recommended:

• more funding for local councils to protect vital bus routes
• better concession schemes, like cheaper travel passes for young people and jobseekers

“Too many people are locked out of opportunity because the transport system simply doesn’t work for them,” said Becca Massey-Chase, principal research fellow at IPPR.

“Parents are out of work, kids are late to school, and medical appointments are missed - not because people are unwilling, but because the buses don’t turn up or the cost of a journey is unaffordable.  

“If the government is serious about tackling poverty, it must fix local transport.”

What can you do to cut travel costs?

Major changes to public transport provision take time, but there are a few things you can do to keep transport costs down.

Car share 

If you rely on a car, why not split the cost of petrol and parking by sharing journeys with friends, neighbours or colleagues?

Invest in a bike 

If it’s safe and practical, cycling can cut out fuel and parking costs entirely. 

Some councils also offer bike loan schemes or grants, so check with your local authority to see what’s available.

Look for community transport schemes

Community minibuses or volunteer driver services may be available in some areas, such as rural locations, for people who struggle with transport options.

Check with your local council or Citizens Advice to see what schemes are up and running where you live.

Ask about flexible working

If you’re struggling with the cost of travelling to work, why not ask your employer if you could work from home or on a hybrid basis so you don’t have to make as many trips.

And if the bus or train timetable doesn’t suit you, see if you can change your hours so travelling to work is more convenient.

Be smart with your journeys

If you’ve got several errands to run, see if you can combine them into one single trip.

Look for local travel discounts

Young people, students and jobseekers often qualify for cheaper bus and train tickets, so see what discounts are available in your area.

Apply for a young person’s railcard

If you’re aged 16 to 25 (or a full-time student), a 16-25 Railcard can cut the cost of train fares by up to a third.

Plan ahead for cheaper train fares

If you know you need to take a train on a certain date, book in advance rather than on the day you’re travelling, as it can be much cheaper.

Use fare comparison sites or apps to find the best deal for your journey, such as:

• Trainline
• National Rail
• Split My Fare
• TrainSplit

Buy season tickets or travelcards

If you travel regularly, weekly or monthly passes usually work out much cheaper than buying individual tickets each day. 

Compare the costs and see if you can save.