Backpacking

Mastering Public Transport While Travelling

15th January 2025Erin Buckingham

Travelling to new countries is all about stepping outside your comfort zone—and nothing screams “adventure” quite like figuring out public transport in a foreign place. Mastering buses, trains, and metros isn’t just a money-saver; it’s a rite of passage for every independent traveller. So, let’s break it down and help you tackle public transport like an absolute pro!

General tips for any backpacking trip

Download a local transport app: Apps like Moovit, Rome2Rio, and Google Maps are lifesavers for finding routes, schedules, and ticket options.
Carry small change: Not every place accepts cards or large notes, so a stash of coins is a game-changer.
Ask locals for help: A friendly smile and a simple question often go a long way. You’ll be surprised how helpful people can be when you’re lost or confused.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what to expect in popular backpacker destinations:

South-East Asia

a girl looking at a sunrise from the top of Mount Batur in Bali, Indonesia — Sunrise from the summit of Mount Batur – Bali, Indonesia

Public transport here can feel chaotic, but that’s part of the charm!

Buses and minivans: These are super cheap but can be confusing. Pay attention to locals hopping on and off, as schedules aren’t always fixed (and by that I mean they are completely random!)
Tuk-tuks: While not strictly public transport, they’re iconic! Always agree on a price before hopping in to avoid surprises, these are one on the biggest tourist scams in South East Asia.
Apps to download: Grab, GoJek and Google Maps are lifesavers in Asia.

Australia & New Zealand

people gathering near swimming pool at bondi beach australia

Things are a bit more straightforward here, with efficient and reliable systems.

Opal, Go Card, Myki… what?: These are regional travel cards you’ll need to tap on and off trains, buses, and ferries.
Regional buses: Perfect for getting to remote beaches or hiking trails, but plan ahead—they don’t run as often as city buses.
Apps to download: TripView (Australia), Metlink (New Zealand).

South and Central America

green and brown mountains of Machu Picchu - Peru

Public transport here is an adventure all on its own!

Chicken buses: Colourful, cheap, and packed with personality, these old school buses are iconic across Central America. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride!
Metro systems: Cities like Medellín and Mexico City have clean, affordable metro systems—perfect for getting around.
Apps to download: Busbud (for long-distance buses) and Moovit.

Europe

A girl stood in front of St. Charles Church in Vienna, Austria

Ah, Europe—the holy grail of efficient public transport.

Metro systems: Paris, London, Berlin… almost every major city has a metro system that’s easy to navigate.
Trains: Rail passes (like Interrail) are brilliant for exploring multiple countries without breaking the bank.
Apps to download: Citymapper and Rail Planner.

Figuring out public transport in a new country might feel daunting at first, but trust me, it’s worth it. Once you’ve got it down, you’ll feel unstoppable. Independence, adventure, and endless new places await!

For more tips and tricks on travelling like a pro, follow me on Instagram and TikTok, or sign up for my newsletter to get insider advice straight to your inbox. Let’s keep this adventure going!