14 Fun Things You Could Do If You Didn’t Have to Pay for a Car
Posted on October 30, 2024
Have you ever wondered how much life could change if you didn’t have to worry about paying for a car? The monthly car payments, gas, insurance, and maintenance fees can really add up. In its 2024 Your Driving Costs study, AAA says average ownership costs for a new vehicle driven 15,000 miles annually is $12,297 a year, or $1,024 a month!
At Choose Your Way Bellevue, we’re all about exploring better, greener, and more budget-friendly ways to get around town. So, we thought it would be fun to imagine all the amazing things you could do without spending so much on your car. Ready to dream big? Let’s go!
1. Buy a Bike (or Two!)
Swap out your four wheels for two! A brand-new bike and all the gear could be yours—plus, you'll save on gas, help the environment, AND stay fit! The average first-time e-bike costs around $2,000, according to ebicycles.com.
2. Take a Spontaneous Weekend Trip by Boat or Train
With all that extra cash, you could treat yourself to a quick getaway! One option is to take the Victoria Clipper from Seattle to Vancouver, BC, with fares ranging from $82-209 for a one-way ticket. If Portland is more your vibe, take the Amtrack from Seattle for a one-way ticket for anywhere between $21-100.
3. Upgrade Your Public Transit Game
Get an unlimited ORCA card for $100 a month and hop on the bus, light rail, or even carpool. Spend less time stressing about traffic and more time enjoying podcasts, books, or people-watching!
4. Spoil Yourself with Fancy Coffee
Imagine indulging in a daily latte or artisanal coffee without guilt. Your car-free savings have got you covered, and as long as you have a lid over your beverage, bring it on your transit travel!
5. Plan a Big Adventure
Dreaming of international travel? Your car-free lifestyle could help fund a trip to explore new cities—without worrying about parking fees, of course. Bellevue has a new airport shuttle service that can take you to and from the airport for $30 each way. Grab a roundtrip flight to Sydney for around $1500 and stay at a hostel for four nights for $360. You still will have saved money from not owning a car!
6. Invest in a Good Pair of Walking Shoes
Ditch the gas station for some fresh air! A comfortable, stylish pair of walking shoes will make your strolls around Bellevue even more enjoyable.
7. Get a Year-Long Fitness Membership
With the money you save on car payments, why not join that fitness class or yoga studio you’ve been eyeing? Bonus: a great way to make new friends, stay active, and improve health and wellbeing.
8. Treat Yourself to Many Nights Out
Use your extra funds for dinner and a show in downtown Bellevue. There are tons of great restaurants, and with public transit, biking, or walking, you never have to worry about finding parking. If you choose not to own a car, you can go out 10 times a month for $100!
9. Start a New Hobby
Always wanted to learn how to throw pottery, or maybe try your hand at painting? Now’s your chance to invest in a creative hobby! Take a 10-week pottery class in Bel-Red District for $495!
10. Host a Potluck Party
With less stress about car repairs, you’ll have more mental energy to throw a fun get-together. Invite your friends and neighbors over for a cozy evening of food and fun.
11. Donate to Your Favorite Cause
Feel like spreading the love? Use a portion of your savings to donate to a charity or cause close to your heart.
12. Create a Chic Outdoor Space
No need for a carport anymore! Transform that area into a beautiful outdoor hangout space with fairy lights, comfy seating, and a fire pit.
13. Take Up Gardening
Without worrying about car expenses, you can start growing your dream garden! Whether it's herbs, flowers, or veggies—get your green thumb ready.
14. Save the Environment
Last but not least, by ditching your car or going car-light by reducing the number of cars in your household, you’re making a real difference in reducing your carbon footprint. It’s one small change for you, but one giant step for the planet!
There you have it—14 reasons why life could be even more exciting (and relaxing!) without a car. Plus, with so many convenient and sustainable ways to get around Bellevue, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner! Did you know that you can also be rewarded for all your sustainable travel?! You will earn a $50 gift card to REI, Hulu, Spotify ($60) or a $50 ORCA card for logging your first 25 non-drive-alone trips on ChooseYourWayBellevue.org ! So, what will you do with your extra car-free savings? Let us know in the comments!