disadvantages of public transport

While using public transportation can be a great way to curb traveling expenses, it also has several disadvantages that one must remain aware of. These include possible threats to personal safety, irregularities in scheduling, and the fact that, in some communities, mass transit has limited coverage and is available for limited hours. Travelers who rely on public transportation should take time to familiarize themselves with the systems available in the various places they visit, in order to avoid difficulties and danger. Pre-trip preparation is particularly important for those with disabilities or special needs, as some public transportation systems are less accommodating than others.

A primary consideration of travelers should be whether they can actually get to the places that they wish to visit via public transportation. In some countries, routes can be very limited, which can be a major disadvantage for travelers who do not have an alternative means of getting around. If a traveler does visit a place where the main attractions or accommodation options are not located near public transportation routes, he or she may need to inquire about private transportation services, such as taxi-cabs. Another consideration is that public transportation services do not always operate during evening, holidays, or weekend hours. Again, if a traveler is staying in a relatively remote area, this can cause significant difficulties unless the traveler can secure private transportation.

For many travelers, the most significant disadvantage of public transportation is the possibility of being attacked or robbed. In situations where travelers are unfamiliar with the customs or language of a particular place, they may be particularly vulnerable to being targeted by criminals. Tourists should speak to local guides or hotel employees about the safety of different public transportation options.

While less serious than the coverage restraint or the problem of crime, the unreliability of some systems remains one of the more significant disadvantages of public transportation. Various types of public transit are subject to malfunctioning equipment, as well as service disruptions caused by emergencies and even labor strikes. These disruptions can create problems for tourists who have carefully planned their day's activities, only to find them significantly delayed because of track construction or a broken down vehicle. In some cases, travelers can avoid routes that are having problems by checking the status of various train lines and bus routes at stations or online.