Driving Less: The Overlooked Benefits for Health, Wealth & More

Many of us depend on our cars to get around. But with rising gas prices and growing concerns about the environment, an increasing number of people are driving less. As it turns out, cutting back on car travel has some big upsides beyond saving money and reducing your carbon footprint.

Improved Health and Wellness

Driving is a pretty sedentary activity. Spending less time behind the wheel means more opportunities for exercise, whether it’s walking, biking, or public transit commuting involving a little walking.

Studies show that public transit users tend to meet daily exercise requirements more easily and have healthier weights compared to those who mostly travel by car.

Cutting back on driving can also lead to significant reductions in stress. Long car commutes in particular can negatively impact mental health.

More Time for What Matters

Driving eats up a lot of time – the average American spends around 300 hours behind the wheel every year. That’s nearly two full weeks you could take back by driving less.

You can reallocate that time to self-care through rest, reflection, creativity, connecting with loved ones, or whatever gives you joy.

Financial Savings

It’s no secret that cars are expensive. AAA estimates the yearly cost of owning and operating a car in the U.S. to be over $9,500. Cutting your mileage even a little can free up a nice chunk of change.

For some, less driving means managing with one car instead of two or forgoing car ownership altogether in favor of other transportation options. The savings here can be substantial.

Cleaner Air, Less Congestion

Fewer cars on the road is good news for air quality. Motor vehicle emissions are a major contributor to air pollution. Less driving directly translates into cleaner air for all to enjoy.

Plus, fewer cars means less traffic congestion making roadways safer and commute times more predictable for those who have to drive.

FAQ

What are some alternatives to driving everywhere?

Walking, biking, public transportation, carpooling, ride sharing services, etc. For longer distances, consider buses or trains over flying.

Is driving less realistic for rural areas?

While high-mileage car trips may be unavoidable in rural areas lacking robust public transit options, there are still opportunities to cut down by batching errand runs, ride sharing, etc.

How can I start driving less?

Try active commuting a few days a week, combining errands into fewer trips, or skipping unnecessary car trips that don’t save much time over walking or biking. Gradually challenge yourself to spend less time driving.

Don’t EVs solve the problems with driving?

Electric vehicles help cut carbon emissions, but many issues around congestion, sedentary lifestyles, etc. persist. Still, switching to an EV is one way to drive more sustainably.

What if public transit isn’t a great option where I live?

You may need to get creative by exploring ride sharing options, organizing a neighborhood carpool group, substituting some car trips with biking/walking when possible, batching needed car trips, and advocating for local transit improvements.