The pandemic changed many things. Now that life has returned to a new normal, I’m going back to some old habits. One of them is using public transportation.
I was one of those people who stopped riding buses and trains when COVID-19 changed the world. Now, I’m back to walking through turnstiles and boarding public transportation around the San Francisco Bay Area.
Being back on board has given me a chance to see both the good and bad sides of public transportation. Here are a few things families should consider.
Fewer Passengers
Public transportation ridership dropped during the pandemic. Train and bus crowds have not fully returned to pre-COVID levels.
For commuters, this can be a good thing. Crowded trains used to be a regular part of my day. I have been squeezed between passengers and bumped from every direction more times than I can count.
These days, crowding has not been a major problem. It is also nice to step onto a train and have a good chance of finding a seat. I can’t complain!
A Fun Adventure for Kids
Adults often see public transportation as a simple way to get from one place to another. Kids see it differently. For them, riding a train can feel like a fun adventure.
Both of my young boys LOVE taking the train to their dental appointments in downtown San Francisco. Every part of the trip excites them.
They enjoy walking through the turnstiles, getting on the train, picking a seat, and watching the world go by. They especially love riding through the tunnels as the train speeds along.
Save Money
Public transportation is a useful and convenient way to get around cities and towns. It can also cost less than driving.
You do not have to pay for parking garages or tolls. For families trying to save money, those savings can add up.
Sporting Events and City Trips
Buses, streetcars, and trains are my favorite ways to travel into city centers. They can save money and reduce the stress of dealing with traffic and parking.
When I plan to shop downtown, I usually prefer taking the car. It is much easier to load my purchases and avoid carrying bags from place to place.
For sporting events, however, public transportation is my first choice. I can get close to the arena entrance without worrying about parking or walking long distances.
During the day, I consider public transportation a good option when traveling with children. I am less comfortable taking buses or trains with them at night.
Thankfully, we plan our kid-friendly outings during daylight hours. This lets us enjoy our trips while the sun is still out.
Public Transportation vs. Ride-Sharing
Uber and Lyft are also popular choices for getting around. These services can be helpful, but they are not always the best option for families.
The cost can be high, and you still have to deal with traffic. You also have to trust a stranger to drive you and your children.
For me, trains and buses can be more predictable. They also help us avoid some of the stress that comes with driving in busy city traffic.
A More Predictable Trip
Traffic can be a nightmare. Since it can change at any time, planning a trip by car is not always easy.
How much time should you allow for traffic? What happens if there is an accident on the freeway or bridge?
Public transportation can make travel easier to plan. As long as the train is running normally, you can often estimate how long it will take to reach your destination.
That predictability makes traveling with children a little less stressful.
Hygiene and Unpleasant Smells
Not everything about public transportation is pleasant. One thing I have noticed is that some streetcar stations can have strong and unpleasant smells.
I have also seen people loitering around the stations. This can make the experience uncomfortable, especially when I am traveling with my children.
The smells in some stairwells and along the walls of the streetcar lines can be hard to ignore.
There is no easy solution. Sometimes, the best choice is simply to avoid areas that seem unpleasant or crowded.
When traveling with children, I remind them not to touch surfaces unnecessarily. I also tell them not to lean against station walls.
At least, that is how I approach public transportation in San Francisco.
Stay Aware of Your Belongings
Families should also pay attention to their surroundings when using public transportation.
When shopping or visiting the city, keep your belongings close. Avoid leaving phones, wallets, bags, or other valuables where they can easily be seen.
I have also seen people skip the fare gates during trips into the city. During one train ride, I noticed several passengers moving from one train car to another even though plenty of seats were available.
I do not know what they were doing, but it reminded me to stay alert.
When traveling with children, being prepared can make the trip much easier. Keep your belongings close, stay aware of your surroundings, and make sure your children stay near you.
The Family Adventure
Despite the challenges, I still enjoy using public transportation with my family.
For my children, riding a train is more than just a way to get somewhere. It is part of the adventure.
Public transportation can save money, reduce driving stress, and make city trips easier to plan. It also gives kids a chance to experience something new.
As with any family outing, it is important to choose the right time, stay aware of your surroundings, and plan ahead.
For us, hopping on a train has become a simple way to turn an ordinary trip into a family adventure.
