Alternatives to Renting a Car

Before you go to the time and expense of renting a car for your next business trip, take a moment to think about your needs and where you’re going. Some cities have such good public transportation that renting a car isn’t essential. In fact, car rental could actually be more of a hassle than a benefit, because you’ll be driving in unfamiliar territory and more likely to get lost or delayed.

By taking a taxi, using public transportation or hiring a car service, you not only ensure you get where you’re going on time, but you can also use your travel time more productively by working on your laptop or checking your email.

Consider the pros and cons before you make your decision. You don’t want to arrive at your business meeting windblown or sweaty after waiting for a city bus in the hot sun. But if stepping out of your hotel into a waiting taxi can get you there with fewer driving and parking hassles, why not? Another plus: In these days of environmental awareness, your colleagues are more likely to applaud your “going green” by taking public transportation instead of driving a car. And you’ll also avoid the expense of parking your rental car at the hotel.

Even if you don’t use alternative transportation to get to and from your business events, consider doing so for sightseeing. A ride on a subway or in a taxi can give you a whole new perspective on a city.

With that in mind, here’s a look at your transportation options in some of the most popular cities for business travel.

New York City: Yellow cabs, the most convenient way to get around the city, are easy to find on the street or outside your hotel. Private car services are also plentiful; have your hotel arrange for one ahead of time. If you’re feeling adventurous, New York’s subway system runs 24 hours a day; you can buy daily and weekly Metrocards good for unlimited rides. Unlike the subway, buses frequently get delayed by traffic, so it’s best not to rely on them except during off-peak hours. Visit the public transportation section of NYCTourist.com for taxi rates and links to the subway, bus and rail systems.

Washington, DC: With confusing one-way streets, lots of traffic and parking at a premium, DC can be difficult to navigate. But the city has a comprehensive public transit system and plenty of taxis. CommuterPage.com includes links to the Metropolitan Washington Area Transit Authority, Metrorail (regional subway) and Metrobus (regional bus system) as well as local bus systems. There’s a trip planner, schedules and fare information.

San Francisco: Bad traffic, steep hills and a dearth of parking test the mettle of even the most seasoned driver. Taxis are plentiful; you can hail one on the street, call ahead or nab one outside most major hotels. The city’s municipal bus, streetcar and subway network is comprehensive. You can get a one, three or seven-day MUNI Passport at the airport or online at www.sfmuni.com. Go to 511Transit and click on “Transit” to view transit schedules and fares, and plan your trip using bus, rail, shuttle or even ferry.

Chicago: In the city center, cabs are the easiest way to go. The “El” (elevated train/subway) or bus are less expensive. Buy visitor passes for one two five days of unlimited travel on El trains and buses at local rail stations. Chicago Traveler.com has a good “Transportation” section that explains how to get around and has links to information about the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) bus system; the El; rail options including Amtrak, Metra Rail and RTA; car services; and taxis.

Los Angeles: You can’t stand on a street corner and hail a cab in L.A. Taxis line up outside train and bus stations, airports and major hotels, but you’ll need to call ahead if you want taxi service anywhere else. Public transportation is limited, but may be an option depending on your destination. Check out Experience L.A. for links to the Metropolitan Transit Authority, bus and rail systems, including Metrorail and Metrolink.

The following services are useful wherever you’re going. Use 1-800-TAXICAB to search for taxi companies and limousine services nationwide. You can call the site’s toll-free 800 number to be connected with a local taxi service. Visit TaxiFareFinder.com to estimate your fares in major cities. Google Transit provides transit information for cities nationwide. Put in your starting point and destination; select the mode of travel (car, public transit or even walking); and get suggested routes.