Nowadays, many travelers are considering other modes of transportation over flying. Traveling by air has its challenges, and people often seek alternatives to flying when they move from one location to another.
The major reasons people prefer to travel without flying include the increasing cost of plane tickets, occasional delays, fully booked planes, jet lag syndromes, and unplanned or last-minute trips.
The cost of plane tickets has continued to increase. Plus, some couples that could afford a plane ride when they were on their own, now have 2 to 3 kids. Adding their plane tickets to the cost of family trips is not cost-effective. Similarly, airlines around the world occasionally have delays. This has often led to passengers having to reschedule flights.
There are hundreds of ideas regarding ways one could travel without flying. Let’s discuss 5 of these practicable alternatives to flying.
Alternative Ways to Flying
Variety is the spice of life. You can manage your affairs and activities when there are numerous options for you to choose from. So, I put together these practicable alternatives to travel without flying.
Flying Alternatives – Traveling by Train
The first obvious alternative to traveling by air is to use trains. Trains have been out there for a while now and have continued to improve from locomotive engines to electric and solar-powered engines.
Nowadays, some trains are remarkably fast and cover long distances in a short amount of time. International trains can also transcend borders and move across several states and regions.
Irrespective of the weather condition, trains are built to move and arrive at their destinations safely (without turbulence). More so, trains emit less carbon and are an environmentally friendly alternative to air travel.
And if you need one more incentive, you can relax on the train and enjoy some scenic landscapes that you can never appreciate from a plane.
Photo by Balazs Busznyak on Unsplash
Traveling by Cruise Ships
Cruise ships are big, luxurious, and can travel across continents. They are the only alternative to flying across continents. There are cruise ships that move between America to Africa or Africa to Asia.
Aside from that, they come with comfort and are designed for pleasure. People who go on excursions, couples on honeymoons, and adventurers prefer cruise ships because they have private rooms, dining halls, plenty of entertainment, and balconies for natural views.
Besides, traveling by rather small ship cruises offers a unique and rewarding experience for adventurers seeking an intimate and immersive journey. These cruises allow passengers to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and access ports that larger ships cannot reach, unveiling hidden gems along the way. Countries such as Greece, Croatia, Norway, and the Galapagos Islands are renowned for their small-ship cruise offerings. Croatia, in particular, stands out with its picturesque coastline, dotted with charming islands and historic towns. Small ship cruising along the Croatian coastline allows travelers to navigate the stunning Adriatic Sea, hop from one idyllic island to another, and soak up the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the azure waters of this Mediterranean gem.
Traveling By Bus – Flying Alternatives
The bus is a public transport system. If you intend to travel short distances, it is advisable to use the bus. Depending on your taste, luxurious buses are very comfortable and will give you a stress-free traveling experience.
Organizations and workplaces that take their employees on work or field trips can use the bus if they intend to travel without flying. And while we usually take the bus within a city to get from A to B, some larger areas also rely on bus transportation. For instance, the public transport in Malta is based on a very well-organized bus network.
Cycling
One of the most inexpensive travel means is riding a bike or bicycle. While it may seem impractical for long distances, it is ideal for short travels.
Cycling is energy-efficient and eco-friendly. It also doubles as a workout routine, helping you stay fit. There are many kinds of bikes available, each suited to different terrains, rider types, and paces. For those who prefer off-road or mixed-terrain rides, the GVR Frameset for gravel bikes provides both durability and comfort. Just a gentle reminder: the more you cycle, the more strength and energy you’ll need to keep going, so always be mindful of your limits.
Self-driving – One of the Most Popular Alternatives to Flying
Licensed drivers would prefer to travel across cities using their cars. If you have a valid driver’s license, you can rent a car or use your own.
Self-driving allows you to move at your pace and is flexible in planning your schedules. Families who do not want to travel by air can cover long or short distances with their cars. It’s the most cost-effective alternative for families with two or three children.
Final Thoughts on Flying Alternatives
Anxiety is common among people traveling by air. Some people even become frenzy at the thought of it alone. They, therefore, seek an alternative to move from one location to another.
Whichever way you decide to travel, make sure that you take safety precautions. Have a safe trip!
Disclosure
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Love a good train ride! Short or long it provides such a great way to view the scenery and relax!
Same here! Driving may give you more freedom but a train ride allows you to really enjoy the scenery.