Kids on the Fly: 2014

Pinching Pennies: 5 Great Ways to Save on Public Transportation

So, you are off to the city for a family vacation. Before you book that car rental, wait! Gas, parking and car rental fees can add up fast. Plus, parking in a city can be a real hassle with kids. Trains, subways and even buses can make getting around with kids a lot cheaper, more convenient and (for the kids) a lot more fun. Let’s face it, sometimes getting there is part of the adventure. When a kid gets in the car, it is the same old routine but a subway is exciting. Using public transportation can give them a sense of adventure and independence. My kids love scanning a subway card and finding the right stop on a map. So leave those car seats at home and take the train, tube, metro, light rail or subway.

Here are five great ways to save money when traveling around any city with kids.

1.       Look for a free fare zone

Many cities like to encourage people to come to their shopping and entertainment districts by offering a “free fare zone.” Although some cities, like Portland and Seattle, have recently done away with these zones, you can still find them in many mid-size cities such as Salt Lake City, Pittsburgh and Buffalo.

2.       Check Fare and Age requirements

Kids under two ride free on most bus and subway systems, but some cities are generous to even older children. In London, kids 10 and under are free when traveling with a paying adult. The MBTA in Boston offers free rides to kids up to age 12.

3.       Check for a group rate or family fare

Save money by buying a group or family ticket. In Munich, two adults and 6 kids or one adult and 8 kids can travel all day for just €11 (look for the Partner Day Ticket). Salt Lake’s group fare is just $15 for four people.

4.       Look into a day pass or week pass

Most cities offer a day pass or week pass at a significant discount, sometimes for around the same price as 2-3 single ride tickets. Portland's day pass is a bargain at $5. In Amsterdam, children through age 11 can ride all day for €2.50. Or ride all week in Minneapolis-St. Paul for $22.

Sometimes I like to opt for the day pass even if I think I might just be making a round trip or a few stops. Kids can get tired pretty easy after a long day of sightseeing. I like having the option to just jump on the train or bus to go 2-3 blocks rather than dragging a tired 4 year-old that distance. Plus, even a short ride on the train often rejuvenates little ones and gives them a little more energy to get through that last museum or landmark.

Be sure to check the time restrictions on these types of tickets. Some day and week passes go from midnight to midnight, while others are valid from the time you first ride.

5.       Ask for a discount

So, the city you are going to doesn’t have a free fare zone, doesn’t let older kids ride free and doesn’t offer a group fare or day passes. Don’t give up yet! Check and see if the transportation system offers a child discount. In Paris, kids 10 and under ride for about half the price of adults. Kids up to age 18 can travel for just $1.25 each trip in Seattle.

If you plan on using the subway or bus system, keep in mind these tips for a smooth ride. Use an umbrella stroller whenever possible. Elevators are few and far between and not always in service. Be honest about following the age and time restrictions. Be sure to research ahead of time because transportation policies can always change and don't be afraid to ask questions. And don't be afraid to let your kids swipe or scan their own tickets. Then just sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

On a visit to Amsterdam, I packed up my husband and kids and sent them into the city while I took a bus out to the famous open air gardens of Keukenhof. Then I spent the next three hours wishing I had brought them with me. Hidden around every corner was something else for kids to climb over, run through, or play on. Keukenhof is a giant playground for kids!

Here are just a few of my favorite things for kids to do at Keukenhof:

1. Explore a windmill