There are plenty of ways to get to uni, but each mode of transport brings its own pros and cons…
The Free Buses
+ The 55A and 55C buses usually run every 10-20 minutes
+ They’re free!
– You don’t know disappointment until a packed bus passes your stop without letting anyone on
– Regular traffic problems around Wollongong can lead to buses running late
How to avoid the rush: get to the bus stop half an hour earlier than you were planning.
Carpool:
+ Ideal transport for you and your two favourite friends/acquaintances… or random you pick up on the way
+ Free parking!
– Traffic backlogs at peak times, with traffic easing when everyone stops going to early morning lectures (usually by week 3)
How to avoid the rush: organise a reliable group of people and car pool at the same time every week.
Trains
+ Usually reliable and on-time
– The cost of tickets can add up quickly
– Occasionally unexpected delays due to track work
How to avoid the rush: keep an eye on sydneytrains.info and @131500trains on Twitter for delay and track work announcements, and download an app to track trains in real-time.
Car
+ Sometimes it’s just easier to travel alone
– Be prepared to take out a loan to pay for parking
– Not very environmentally friendly
How to avoid the rush: check Live Traffic NSW for traffic conditions in the area, and check the Parking @ UOW site to see which
Bike
+ Environmentally friendly
+ Plenty of bike parking on campus
– Not a great mode of transport on rainy days
– Don’t be the guy riding in front of the traffic line in a 60km zone
How to avoid the rush: check for weather conditions the day before, and have a backup plan just in case!