As someone who doesn’t drive, I often encounter curiosity about what life is like without a car, especially as a parent. Many people struggle to comprehend how one can manage daily life, let alone parenting, without the convenience of a vehicle. Here’s a glimpse into my experience.
Contrary to common belief, life without a car isn’t as burdensome as many think. While it presents challenges, I find it manageable. Living in a bustling city has provided me with reliable public transportation options, making it easier to get around without a car.
Growing up in New York City, I became accustomed to using the subway. During my teenage years in Brooklyn, several subway lines were within walking distance, allowing me to reach various parts of the city quickly. Later, I attended college in Boston, where my campus living meant that everything was nearby. Even when I moved off-campus, my apartment was just a 20-minute stroll from school, and I willingly paid extra rent to avoid public transport.
The most surprising turn came when I decided to move to Los Angeles—without a car. LA is notorious for its car-dependent lifestyle, and while that may hold true for certain areas, I’ve found it fairly easy to navigate the city without one. I often hear, “You really should learn to drive,” a sentiment voiced to me countless times since I turned 18. I understand the advantages of driving, but the prospect of getting behind the wheel is genuinely intimidating, to the point where it makes me anxious. My attempts to learn, like a driving lesson with my dear friend Mia at 22, ended with me feeling overwhelmed and unable to drive since then.
But here’s the kicker: I’m surprisingly content without a vehicle. Parking in a city can be a real hassle. In LA, while some areas have more luck with parking, it’s not always straightforward. Finding a spot can involve circling for ages, and in my current apartment, which lacks designated parking, this has turned into an advantage.
Environmental benefits also play a role in my choice. I’m not contributing to emissions from driving, helping to reduce pollution in an already smoggy LA. While eco-friendly vehicle options exist, my choice to avoid driving altogether significantly lessens my carbon footprint.
The most significant benefit? The cost-effectiveness. I spend around $100 monthly on transportation, which hardly covers a month’s worth of gasoline for a car. I’m free from the burdens of car payments, gas, and insurance—financial pressures that can weigh heavily on those not in a stable economic situation.
Of course, there are drawbacks. Relying on public transit can lead to unpredictability, which can be frustrating. As someone who values punctuality, delays can be problematic, especially now that I have a young child, like my son Tommy, who can easily derail our plans with last-minute needs.
Running errands can also be tricky. It often means relying on rideshare services or waiting for a friend with a car, which can be frustrating. That said, my friends are incredibly supportive, frequently offering to help without me having to ask, understanding the challenges I face.
Perhaps one day I’ll overcome my fear of driving and find myself in a position where owning a car becomes feasible. Until then, I’m comfortable catching the bus or train, soaking in the sights as I travel. Public transportation offers a unique perspective on life and connects me with diverse people along the way. For more insights on navigating parenthood and transportation, check out our post on home insemination options or learn more about the process with Cryobaby’s kits. For additional guidance, consider this resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while being a parent without a car comes with its challenges, it also offers unique advantages and opportunities for growth. With a supportive network and a willingness to adapt, I navigate parenthood and transportation with relative ease.