Many Canadian families have one or more cars. Canadians either buy their cars new or used or they lease them, which is a form of rental.

Make sure you think of all the costs before you decide to buy or lease a car. When you own a car you will have to pay to keep it working well, for gas, monthly loan payments, registration and insurance. When you lease a car you will sign a contract to have the car for a set period of time. You will pay the same costs as you do when you own a car.

Car insurance

It is the law that all cars must be insured and registered with your provincial or territorial government. Car insurance can be expensive, but it protects you and other drivers in case of an accident. In most provinces, you can find more information by calling the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

Many Canadians also choose to use public transportation, walking or biking because they are less expensive than maintaining a car and are better for the environment.

Public transportation

Public transportation choices vary across Canada. Large cities such as Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver have the most options for public transportation with buses, urban trains or subways. Smaller Canadian cities also have public transportation, such as buses and commuter trains.

Buses and trains

Passengers must go to bus stops and train stations to wait for buses and trains. Some cities also have services called Park and Ride. If you live far from a bus stop you can drive your car to a special parking area, park your car and then take the bus or train.

Smaller towns and rural areas usually do not have public transportation, but many have a local taxi service.

The hours of operation and cost for public transit vary. Check the schedule of your local public transit for exact times and for information about where buses, trains and subways can take you. Transit information can be found on the Internet, in the yellow pages of your telephone book or in the city government listing in the white pages of your telephone book.

Long-distance transportation options

There are a number of ways that you can travel long distances between cities in Canada. Depending on your budget and how far you will be traveling, you may want to consider one of the following options:

• Travel by long-distance bus. You can find listings for bus companies offering service in your region by checking the yellow pages of your telephone book.
• Travel by train. VIA Rail is Canada’s long-distance train service.
• Travel by air. Many people travel by air, especially when traveling long distances across the country. Contact one of the Canadian air carriers offering service in your community.