Lately, the cost of transportation in Lagos has been high due to a hike in fuel prices. As a working class in Lagos, it is important to know that reducing transport expenses helps manage the budget, save cost, improve health and well-being, and so many more regardless of the factors contributing to it. So, have you been thinking about how you will reduce these transport expenses, then Read On?

Factors that Contribute to Transport Expenses

• Traffic Congestion:

Working as a professional in Lagos, being stuck in traffic contributes to transport expenses because traffic causes the longer the road trip, the higher the transport fare. Usually, you either own a car or transport to work in commercial vehicles. According to commercial drivers and private car owners, driving in traffic for a prolonged period has a way of affecting the vehicle, resulting in the additional expense of repairing the vehicle. 

• Fuel prices:

When the price of fuel suddenly goes high, it automatically affects the loading of a fuel tank, causing transportation fares to be expensive. For instance, when the price of fuel was sold for 160 NGN, the cost of transportation from Berger to Oshodi was 300 NGN but now that hat the price of fuel has increased to 620 NGN, the transport fare from Berger to Oshodi has also increased to 1,000 NGN.

• Distance traveled:

Travelling a long distance daily as a worker in Lagos has a major impact on transportation expenses. The farther the distance, the higher the cost of fare spent, and the fuel used, which can also affect the vehicle if driven on a badly structured road. The closer you live to your place of work, the lesser the cost of transportation for you. It is therefore not a surprise that Lagosians prefer to seek employment closer to their location. 

• Weather Conditions: 

We cannot overemphasize the effect of the weather on transportation in Lagos. When the weather gets gloomy and there is a heavy downpour of rain, it causes roadblocks, and more fuel than normal may be used. Hence, it is essential to think ahead and make a proper plan for weather conditions like this to avoid spending excessively, but wisely. 

Ways to Reduce Transport Expenses as a Lagos Working Class

• Optimize your commute:

Thinking of how to achieve this? Consider mass transit, like subways, and buses that help you reduce cost since you are not the one driving or responsible for financing the fuel or any caused damage to the vehicle. Also, you can consider ride-sharing and carpooling, i.e., looking out for people going your same route and making arrangements with the driver to drop you all at your designated places. If your workplace is not a long distance from your house, you can try walking if you can. 

• Plan your routes efficiently:

Considering the fact that Lagos is known for its constant traffic congestion. Planning your routes and time is one efficient way how much you will be spending on transport. The popular belief is that there is always a shortcut (especially in Lagos). Examine and explore structured routes that are less strenuous or traffic congestion-free. Also, make proper plans for an errand journey just in case you are going through the same route,

• Explore affordable transportation alternatives:

The type of transportation system you take can also determine how much you will spend. Instead of using Uber, Bolt, or car rental services that charge more and can become unpredictable due to traffic, you can explore other cheaper options like commercial Okada riders, Keke Napep, especially for short-distance travel, and boats for waterway routes. 

• Enhance remote work opportunities 

An average Lagosian is aware of rush hours, which are usually around the start of work and close of work. During these rush hours, transport fares are usually more expensive. If you don’t leave your house within this timeframe or reduce the number of times you leave the house, you are likely to save money. Communicate remote work or hybrid plans with employers of the organization, and make use of open offices for flexibility. 

• Budget and track your transportation expenses:

Planning is essential; while different transportation systems might be an option when you are running late or in traffic, it is advisable for you to have a budget for each month and also think of better alternatives when necessary.  After you examine how much you spend monthly on transportation, create a financial plan, and point out areas that can help you save.  

• Adopt fuel-saving habits: 

The frustration of being a driver in Lagos is real. So, it is important to maintain driving standards that can reduce your cost of transportation or transport expenses. Drive safely and avoid rapid acceleration for low use of fuel. Always do well to check the health of the vehicle before taking it out. This will save you from unnecessary expenses.  

In conclusion, It is important to take responsibility for your transport expenses by carrying out effortless and realistic strategies for cost reduction.