Ditching your car doesn’t mean giving up convenience—it can actually open the door to more affordable, eco-friendly, and flexible ways to get around. From public transit and scooters to rideshares and e-bikes, there are plenty of transportation options that keep you mobile without the hassle of parking, gas, or insurance.

Here’s a look at the best alternatives to driving, plus how to save money on each one using tools like Fluz.

Take Advantage of Public Transit Systems

Public transportation remains one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to navigate any city. Whether it’s a subway, bus, or light rail, transit networks help millions of people get where they’re going daily—without the traffic or fuel costs.

Major systems like New York City’s MTA and Chicago’s CTA offer wide coverage and digital passes for easy access. Many cities also support mobile payments and route-planning apps, making public transit more user-friendly than ever. If you’re commuting regularly, look into monthly pass discounts or employer-sponsored commuter benefits to cut costs further.

Try Taxi Services

Taxis and flat-rate transportation services offer a dependable way to get around without needing to drive yourself. For people without access to robust public transit—or those traveling during late hours—these services fill the gap with door-to-door service.

While often more expensive than buses or trains, you can make taxi travel more affordable by budgeting ahead, splitting rides, or using prepaid options where available.

Rely on Rideshare Apps for Flexibility

Apps like Uber and Lyft are staples of urban mobility. They’re perfect for occasional trips, traveling with luggage, or getting somewhere quickly when public transit isn’t convenient. To save money, consider using Fluz to purchase digital gift cards for Uber or Lyft. Fluz gives you instant cashback when you buy these cards—so you’re earning rewards just by paying for the rides you already take.

You can preload gift cards into your rideshare app wallet and use them automatically for future trips, turning every trip across town into a budget-friendly choice.

Explore the City by Scooter or E-Bike

For short trips and quick errands, scooters and e-bikes are efficient, fun, and easy to use. Most major cities now support rental programs like Lime, Bird, Citi Bike (in NYC), or Divvy (in Chicago). These are great for avoiding traffic and reaching destinations too far to walk but too close to drive.

Looking to invest in your own ride? You can actually earn cashback on e-bike and scooter purchases when shopping for brands like Uber or Lyft via Fluz. Check the Uber or Lyft merchant pages in Fluz to see available e-bike gift card options and current cashback rates. Whether you’re buying gear or topping up a rental account, these little savings stack up fast.

Combine Options for Maximum Flexibility

The best way to move through a car-free lifestyle is to mix and match. Use the subway for long commutes, grab a scooter for the last mile, and rely on rideshare when convenience counts. Planning your travel with multiple options not only saves money but also adapts to your day’s schedule, weather, and accessibility needs.