Commuting in a crowded city can feel like a daily puzzle—with traffic jams, unpredictable transit schedules, and packed sidewalks all slowing you down. But with a few smart strategies and the right tools, you can shave valuable minutes off your travel time, reduce stress, and even make your commute more enjoyable.

Here’s how to stay one step ahead during your daily journey.

Use Navigation Apps to Plan Efficient Routes

Apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Transit are essential for navigating busy streets and avoiding delays. Before you leave home, check real-time traffic or transit updates to identify the fastest route—and consider enabling alerts for major disruptions or service changes.

Google Maps is great for comparing driving, transit, biking, and walking options side by side. Waze, which relies on user-submitted reports, is ideal for drivers who want to avoid traffic jams, construction, or accidents. Transit app helps subway and bus riders track arrivals live and locate the best transfer points, especially in cities with complex public transportation systems.

Avoid Peak Travel Times When Possible

Rush hours can double your commute time in major cities. If your schedule allows, try to travel outside the 7–9 a.m. and 4–6:30 p.m. windows. Many workplaces now support hybrid or flexible hours, so shifting your departure by even 30 minutes can help you avoid packed trains and standstill traffic.

For those with fixed hours, consider taking earlier or later buses and trains to improve your chances of getting a seat—and arriving on time.

Know Your Commute and Backup Options

City travel is often unpredictable, so it helps to map out multiple commute variations. Know which train lines intersect with your usual route, or which side streets let you bypass congestion when walking or biking. If you normally rely on one form of transport, identify a backup—like a bus line or a rideshare option you can turn to in a pinch.

Apps like Transit and Citymapper allow you to customize and compare routes across different modes, including subways, scooters, and bike shares.

Use Technology to Predict and Avoid Delays

Many navigation apps now include predictive features that analyze historical traffic and transit data. Google Maps, for example, can tell you when your route typically sees the most congestion and suggest alternative departure times.

Likewise, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft often show fare increases during peak hours. Planning ahead not only helps you avoid traffic but also saves money if you’re paying out of pocket.

Combine Modes for Maximum Efficiency

Sometimes the fastest commute isn’t a straight shot. Consider combining multiple transport modes to reduce delays. For instance, take the train to skip gridlocked roads, then finish the trip with a short bike or scooter ride. Multi-modal travel can bypass common bottlenecks, especially in sprawling cities with mixed infrastructure.

Look for combo solutions like bike stations near train stops or scooter zones near major bus terminals to build seamless transitions into your route.