Are you considering getting your own set of wheels? New car sales shrunk to a 30-year low in 2020, but a gradual easing of restrictions in 2021 has created new opportunities for road trips and other adventures.
Driving is by no means cheap as you’ll need to factor in the price of the car itself, plus insurance, road tax and fuel – as well as driving lessons if you’re just getting started. There are ways to make car ownership more affordable though, like getting learner driver insurance instead of a tutor and buying a used car instead of a new one.
So what advantages make cars worth the investment?
You dictate your own schedule
If you’ve relied on buses, trains or even flights up to this point in your life, you’ll know how common delays are and how inconvenient departure times can be. Owning a car eliminates these worries and allows you to dictate your own schedule.
Driving is usually quicker than public transport too. You can set off exactly when you need to, not when a transport provider decides, and make it to your destination in a fraction of the time.
It’s cheaper in the long run
While car ownership can come with lots of upfront costs, you could save money over time as most journeys will work out cheaper. You won’t have to pay extra to travel during more popular times like you might with trains, planes and taxis, for example.
This point is especially true if you plan to use your car to commute or make other trips regularly. You’ll get even more for your money if you can choose a fuel-efficient car too.
Independence and freedom
One of the best things about owning a car is undoubtably the sense of freedom it brings. You don’t have to rely on other people for lifts and aren’t limited to destinations that are accessible on public transport routes.
Fancy a late-night trip to get food? Want to access a hidden beauty spot? You can go wherever you like, whenever you like – which means you can be more spontaneous.
Privacy
Cars also offer a sense of privacy that you don’t get with public transport. There’s no-one to stop you creating your own driving soundtrack and singing along to your favourite songs as loud as you want to!
You’ll also have more time to relax and think when you need to – like when you’re not quite ready for socialising if it’s early in the morning. You can even keep personal belongings locked away in the glove box or boot if you need to.
It’s easy to see the appeal of getting a car, particularly if your current travel arrangements are frustrating or overly time-consuming. Weigh up these perks before deciding if buying a vehicle is the right route for you.
