Daily Commute from Reading to Dartford
Hi everyone,
I’ve just secured a job in Dartford, Kent, but I won’t be able to relocate right away due to existing commitments. According to Trainline, it looks like my daily commute will take at least 2 hours each way and cost around £50. I’m hoping to find ways to lower my daily expenses. I’m currently learning to drive, so public transport is my only option at the moment. Any tips for a more affordable commute would be greatly appreciated!
Edit: Thanks for all the advice! I plan to give this commute a shot for the first couple of months, and if I enjoy the job, I’ll look into moving closer to Dartford. Feeling a bit worn out in Reading right now! 🤒
Hi there!
Congrats on the new job! Commuting can be a hassle, but there are definitely a few options to consider that might help reduce costs and make your journey more manageable.
Season Tickets: If you plan to commute for two months, check if a weekly or monthly season ticket might save you money. Sometimes the cost of a season ticket can be less than buying daily tickets.
Train Splitting: Look into train splitting, which involves buying separate tickets for different parts of the journey. It can sometimes be cheaper than purchasing a direct ticket for the whole route.
Alternative Routes: Explore different train operators or routes. Sometimes taking a longer route with a change might be cheaper, even if it takes a bit more time.
Carpooling: Since you’re learning to drive, consider carpooling with someone who might be commuting in the same direction. It could save you money on fuel and give you access to carpool lanes if applicable.
Off-Peak Travel: If your work hours allow it, try to travel during off-peak hours as fares are often significantly lower.
Flexible Hours: Speak with your employer about flexible working hours. If you can adjust your start and end times, you might be able to find cheaper travel options.
Local Accommodations: Since you’re planning to move eventually, consider staying in a budget-friendly accommodation temporarily if commuting gets too tiring or costly.
It’s great to hear you’re planning to evaluate your experience in the first couple of months. Best of luck adjusting to your new job, and hope you feel better soon!
Safe travels!