For many people, the idea of living without a car is a daunting thought, but, for Carmen and her family, it has always been normal. What started as a temporary living situation has grown into a comfortable, car-free way of life. Carmen is from Germany, where biking and public transportation are just a part of everyday life, she never expected to stay in Princeton for this long. “Originally we thought it would be one year but then it became more,” she says with a laugh. “But the whole time we’ve been in Princeton we have been car-free. In January it will be 4 years” Here’s a look at how Carmen and her family make it work.
Carmen’s Ride
Carmen’s bike was a second-hand purchase, she shared “A friend of mine brought me by a thrift store and I found my bike for $65.” Following behind her bike is a trailer to carry her daughter, who is learning to ride her own bike. Carmen shared that this past year she brought her daughter to and from preschool every day in the trailer.
To hold her backpack she uses her daughter’s old baby seat that is attached to the bike. Carmen’s husband, who also uses a bike to get around, doesn’t have any electric upgrades either. “I have one bike, my husband has one, and my daughter has three that she is using to learn how to ride.”
One of the biggest advantages Carmen has found is the significant savings that come with not owning a car. “We are lively directly in Princeton so we thought we could use the money from not owning a car for different things.”
Where Carmen Rides
Though Carmen has found most of her biking routes independently, when she first started she used Google Maps. She explained that sometimes she feels safe biking by herself but wouldn’t bring her daughter in the trailer. Carmen shared the difference between biking in Princeton versus surrounding towns, “In Princeton, we have a lot of luck because it is possible to go by bike here but everywhere else it seems more difficult,” she shared, “Most of the towns don’t have a path or sidewalk so it’s a safety concern, especially with a kid following behind. In Princeton, it is totally easy now that I know the best ways.”
Carmen also shared how they will use public transportation like taking the TigerTransit to Princeton Play Space! She also pointed out the difference that “In other countries, it is definitely easier to take public transportation.” Noting that Princeton is lucky to have the TigerTransit but in Germany, they have public transportation in all of the towns. While Carmen and her family try to rely as much as possible on their bikes, they do occasionally use Uber, “We need Uber for the grocery store once a week.”
Biking Through the Weather
When it comes to biking in less-than-ideal conditions, Carmen has found ways to stay prepared. “I use a face shield for rain and wind, and I wear special clothes for the cold,” she says. “The biggest challenge is snow. If there’s too much on the ground, I’ll just take an Uber or walk.” Her daughter’s trailer does zip shut so she doesn’t have to worry about her getting wet or uncomfortable on the ride.
Advice for Others Looking to Ditch Their Car
So, what advice does Carmen have for others who are interested in living car-free? “Normally the most important thing is a good bike. It is good to have more options with the gears because of the up and down roads in Princeton so you can switch gears.” Carmen suggests that having the right bike can make all the difference when biking in an area with varied terrain. The ability to switch gears helps with navigating hilly areas more comfortably and efficiently. While biking may be her primary mode of transportation, Carmen points out that it’s also important to be flexible and consider other options, like public transit, especially on days when the weather or distance may be a challenge.
What you can do!
- Keep cyclists safe while diving by slowing down, moving over, and passing with care. Drivers must allow at-least a 4-foot safety zone when they pass. Pick up a free magnet from the Sustainable Princeton office!
- Report dangerous driving to the NJ State Police by dialing #77
- Get involved with the Pedestrian & Bicycle Advisory Committee who provides research and advice to Council on matters relating to policies and facilities which promote and enhance the safety, comfort, and convenience of bicyclists, pedestrians, and other users of micro-mobility.
- Learn more about bike boulevards in Princeton, smart growth and 15-minute cities
- Save the Date for Sustainable Princeton’s eCommuter Fest on September 6th at the Princeton Shopping Center!
