In a country as vast as Australia, owning a car has long been seen as a necessity. However, with rising costs, environmental concerns, and the availability of alternatives like car sharing and public transport, many Australians are rethinking the need to own a car. In this blog by Drive mate, we'll explore five essential tips for living mostly car free while still enjoying the freedom and flexibility that driving offers.

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1. Embrace Public Transport​

One of the easiest ways to transition to a car-free lifestyle is by embracing public transport. Australia's major cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, have extensive public transport networks that include trains, buses, and trams. These options are not only convenient but also cost-effective compared to the expenses associated with car ownership.

Benefits of Public Transport:

  • Cost Savings: By relying on public transport, you can save on fuel, maintenance, insurance, and registration costs. According to recent data, the average cost of owning a car in Australia is approximately $734.84 weekly, or $38,212.68 annually.
  • Environmental Impact: Public transport is a more sustainable option, reducing your carbon footprint by decreasing the number of cars on the road. Fewer cars mean lower carbon emissions and less traffic congestion, contributing to a cleaner environment.

Tip: Plan your routes using transport apps like Moovit or Citymapper, which provide real-time updates and help you navigate the best options for your daily commute.

2. Consider Cycling or Walking for Short Distances

For short trips, consider cycling or walking. Not only is it good for your health, but it's also environmentally friendly and free. Many Australian cities have become increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and shared paths making cycling safer and more accessible.

Why Cycling and Walking Work:

  • Health Benefits: Regular cycling or walking can improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and increase overall fitness levels.
  • Cost Savings: By choosing to walk or cycle, you eliminate costs associated with fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance.
  • Environmental Impact: Cycling and walking produce zero emissions, contributing to reduced air pollution and conserving energy resources.

Tip: Invest in a good quality bike and safety gear. You can also join local cycling groups or communities to stay motivated and discover new routes.

3. Utilize Car Sharing and Rental Services

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Even if you decide to go car-free, there will still be times when you need a car. Whether it's for a weekend getaway, a road trip, or moving house, renting a car or using car sharing services like Drive mate can provide the flexibility you need without the long term commitment.

Benefits of Car Sharing and Rentals:

  • Cost Efficiency: Instead of paying for car ownership expenses year-round, you only pay for a car when you need it. Drive mate offers a wide range of vehicles, from budget-friendly hatchbacks to luxurious SUVs, on an hourly, daily, or long term basis. This means you can rent a car that suits your specific needs and budget without the ongoing costs of ownership.
  • Flexibility: Services like Drive mate Flex+ offer a next-level car subscription service in Australia, where you can rent a car with flexible terms. This includes comprehensive packages with insurance, maintenance, and roadside assistance, all seamlessly integrated into a transparent weekly payment. You can also cancel anytime with just a 4-week notice, providing the ultimate freedom to adapt to your changing needs.
  • Extra Income: If you already own a car but don’t use it regularly, you can share your car with Drive mate. This allows pre-approved renters to access your car when you're not using it, earning you some extra cash in the process.

4. Optimize Your Lifestyle for Car-Free Living

Living without a car means making a few adjustments to your lifestyle. This might include choosing a home closer to work, shopping locally, or even telecommuting. By optimizing your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the need for a car.

Lifestyle Changes to Consider:

  • Live Close to Work: Choose a location close to your workplace or public transport routes to make commuting easier.
  • Shop Locally: Support local businesses and reduce travel time by shopping at nearby stores. Many local shops offer delivery services, further reducing the need for a car.
  • Telecommuting: With the rise of remote work, consider telecommuting if possible. This reduces the need for daily commuting, saving you time and money.

5. Understand the Financial Benefits of Going Car Free


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Going car-free isn't just about convenience; it's also a smart financial decision. The cost of owning a car in Australia includes purchase price, depreciation, insurance, maintenance, fuel, registration, and more. When you add up these expenses, it becomes clear that car ownership can be a significant financial burden.

Cost Comparison Between Car Ownership and Car Sharing:

  • Car Ownership Costs: According to a comprehensive analysis , the annual cost of owning a car in Australia is around $38,212.68, including all expenses. This doesn't account for unexpected repairs or rising fuel prices.
  • Car Sharing Costs: In contrast, using car sharing services like Drive mate allows you to pay only for the time you use the vehicle. This can be a much more economical option, especially for those who don't need a car daily.

Environmental Impact of Going Car Free:

  • Lower Carbon Emissions: Fewer cars on the road mean reduced carbon emissions, which is crucial for combatting climate change. By choosing car sharing or public transport, you're contributing to a cleaner, greener environment.
  • Reduced Traffic Congestion: With fewer cars, traffic congestion decreases, leading to shorter travel times and less stress for everyone.

Why Choose Drive mate?

At Drive mate, we understand that going car-free doesn’t mean giving up the freedom to drive. Here’s why Drive mate Flex+ is your ultimate car-finding companion:

  • Choice: We offer a wide range of vehicles, from budget-friendly hatchbacks to luxurious SUVs, to meet every need.
  • Flexibility: Whether you need a car for a few hours or a long term car rental, we’ve got you covered with flexible rental options that fit your budget and lifestyle.
  • Peace of Mind: Our rigorous vetting process ensures that both hosts and guests in our car sharing community are reliable. Plus, every trip is covered under our comprehensive insurance policy.
  • Earn Extra Income: Already own a car? Turn it into a money-making asset by sharing your car with Drive mate. You can offset your ownership costs while keeping the convenience of having a car when you need it.

Conclusion

Living without a car in Australia is not only possible but can also be a more economical, healthier, and environmentally friendly choice. By embracing public transport, cycling, car sharing, and optimizing your lifestyle, you can enjoy the benefits of a car-free life without sacrificing the convenience of driving when you need it by renting a car for a day or as a long term rental. Drive mate is here to support you every step of the way, offering flexible and affordable solutions for your transportation needs.

Also read:
​Car Sharing vs Car Rental in Australia: The Pros and Cons​
​Own the Road, Not the Car: Drive mate Flex Plus: Freedom Redefined​
​The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Car Ownership Costs in Australia in 2024​