For daily bus riders, managing transportation costs is about more than just picking the cheapest fare. From monthly passes to digital rewards platforms, commuters have more tools than ever to reduce expenses and streamline their ride. Whether you’re in a major metro area or a regional city, using a combination of transit passes and rewards apps can make a noticeable dent in your commuting budget.
Here’s how to get the most out of your fare while still getting to work, school, or anywhere else on time.
Choose the Right Transit Pass for Your Riding Habits
Public transit systems often offer multiple payment tiers: pay-per-ride, weekly passes, and monthly unlimited options. Choosing the right one depends on your frequency of use.
- If you ride more than twice a day, a monthly unlimited pass often provides the best value.
- Weekly passes are ideal for hybrid workers or those with short-term commuting needs.
- Pay-per-ride may be better for occasional riders or those who walk or bike part of the week.
Cities like New York City (OMNY), Chicago (Ventra), and Los Angeles (Metro TAP) offer online calculators to help determine break-even points for each pass type.
Stack Transit Passes with Rewards Apps
You don’t have to stop at choosing the right pass—you can also pair that fare strategy with cashback and rewards apps for added savings. Start by checking if your transit provider allows fare card reloads or pass purchases online or through affiliated retailers.
If so, consider these stacking techniques:
- Earn cashback with a CVS gift card or get rewards with a Walgreens gift card when loading fare cards in-store
- Use Fluz virtual cards within Apple Pay or Google Pay to reload digital fare accounts like Clipper, SmarTrip, or Ventra
- Shop through Rakuten or Ibotta for related purchases (commuter snacks, travel accessories) and earn extra cashback
Consider Employers That Offer Transit Benefits
Some employers offer pre-tax commuter benefits via providers like WageWorks. These allow you to set aside part of your paycheck for transportation costs, lowering your taxable income while covering your monthly pass.
If your employer doesn’t offer this, suggest it—businesses can often save on payroll taxes by participating.
Leverage Retailers That Sell Fare Cards
Many transit systems partner with retailers like:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Walmart
- Rite Aid
- 7-Eleven
By purchasing fare cards at these stores, you can take advantage of cashback by using gift cards bought through rewards platforms. For example, you can earn cashback with a Rite Aid gift card or get rewards with a Walmart gift card, depending on availability and rates on Fluz.
Track Rewards and Set a Transit Budget
Lastly, set a monthly transportation budget and track your rewards earnings. The combination of digital passes, commuter benefits, and gift card cashback can amount to significant savings over time—especially for five-day-a-week riders.
