Throughout my life, there have been a number of reasons I’ve had to use public transportation. Each time, I am reminded that I really do love having my own car. There are some things I simply can’t get over when it comes to riding the bus or taking the subway. Here are the biggest pains about taking public transportation that you may have noticed too.
1. Limited and Unpredictable Schedules
Depending on where you live, public transportation isn’t all that reliable. One of the biggest complaints when it comes to public transit is the limited availability and unpredictable schedules. Buses don’t always run on time, which can lead to unexpected delays. You might wind up waiting longer than you thought, especially if it isn’t a busy time for travel. Missed connections, breakdowns, and detours can make even the simplest trip a long ordeal. In the end, this can lead to missed appointments and, at the very least, it’s frustrating to deal with.
2. Overcrowded Conditions
Public transportation can be crowded. Buses and trains are often packed to capacity, especially if you are traveling at rush hours. This can make it difficult to find a seat, which will leave you standing. Not to mention, these close quarters make it easier for germs to spread, which is a significant concern during flu season or if you have health problems. Ultimately, being sandwiched between strangers on a daily basis can be a drag.
3. Lack of Personal Space
This goes hand in hand with the last point. When the buses and other public transit are overcrowded, there is no personal space. There is always someone in your “bubble,” especially when seating is limited. This lack of space can make people feel anxious during their journey home (or wherever they might be going). You might also have to deal with other people’s body odor, loud conversations, or unwanted contact. Riders who prefer personal space might find public transport to be an exhausting ordeal.
4. Hygiene Concerns
Speaking of body odor, there are a number of hygiene concerns that come along with riding on public transportation. Seats, handrails, and floors all harbor germs or debris. Not to mention, there can be things like spilled drinks, litter, and just unpleasant smells that fill the cabin of the commuter train. If you are someone who prioritizes hygiene, it can be a stressful experience.
5. Long Commute Times
As previously mentioned, public transportation schedules leave something to be desired. Buses, trains, and other public transit can turn a short commute into a lengthy journey. This is because they’ll stop multiple times and potentially even detour to cover their routes. In some cases, a car ride would take just 15 minutes, whereas riding the bus can take more than an hour to get to the same destination. Commuters may feel that they’re losing valuable time each day sitting in transit.
6. Safety Concerns
There are also some safety concerns about using public transportation, especially if you find yourself traveling late at night. Poorly lit stops and unruly passengers contribute to some commuters’ concerns. There are frequent incidents like theft, harassment, and arguments that occur as well. All of this can make some passengers feel vulnerable and uneasy about their security.
7. Uncomfortable Seating
Let’s face it, the seats on public transportation aren’t comfortable. If you have to settle in for a longer ride, it can be close to unbearable. Anyone finding themselves on the bus might experience leg and back pain due to minimal padding and legroom. Uncomfortable seating turns what could be a quick trip into an endurance challenge.
When the Journey Is Less Than Ideal
Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of advantages to public transportation. You are decreasing your carbon footprint, and saving money, and there are a list of reasons why someone might choose to ride the bus or train. However, it comes with plenty of headaches too. From unreliable schedules to uncomfortable seating, these issues can make even the simplest journey a stressful experience.