For families juggling hectic schedules and numerous commitments, effective logistical management is essential. One child may have soccer practice while another is invited to a birthday party on the other side of town. Meanwhile, my partner might need a couple of hours to finish work, and I’m eager to catch up with a friend for lunch. Each of us has a list of errands to tackle, and let’s not even begin to discuss the never-ending laundry. Seriously, the laundry!
The days of lazy weekend brunches followed by long naps are long gone. We’re as busy as anyone else. Adding to the chaos of our already packed weekends is our decision to be a one-car family.
Our choice to maintain a single vehicle has been both a conscious one and a matter of circumstance. We’ve always had just one car, and it rarely posed a problem—especially when we lived in the city, where parking was a nightmare and traffic was unbearable. Back then, choosing to stick with one car was a no-brainer.
As time has passed, however, it has become somewhat more challenging. Now that our kids are 8 and 10, they have their own social lives and activities, often requiring them to be in different places at the same time. Since moving to the suburbs, my spouse takes the train to work every morning, while my commute is merely a stroll from my bed to my desk as a work-from-home parent. But there are still bumps along the way. Sometimes one of us has to travel for work while the other is left to juggle the kids’ schedules. Our younger son may have a soccer game that coincides with his older brother’s activity. And, of course, our aging minivan occasionally needs repairs, which can throw a wrench into our plans.
Every so often, my partner suggests we consider getting another car. “Maybe it’s time to…” he starts, but I swiftly interrupt with a firm “Absolutely not!”
I won’t deny that the temptation is there. Coordinating carpools can be tricky, and we often find ourselves calling in favors. Sometimes, we spend more time figuring out how to get everyone where they need to go than we do actually enjoying the events themselves. And, let’s be honest, it’s hard not to feel a twinge of envy when a neighbor drives home in a shiny new vehicle or when someone shares a photo online of their latest birthday gift—a sleek SUV.
But here’s the thing: I’m not particularly fond of cars. While some view them as luxurious status symbols, I see them as costly metal boxes that require a significant investment of time and money to maintain. I’m already struggling to keep our current vehicle in decent shape; I certainly don’t want to add another one to the mix.
Cars can be a financial burden. A monthly car payment can easily run several hundred dollars, without factoring in expenses like gas, parking, insurance, and depreciation. According to AAA’s 2015 Your Driving Costs study, owning a minivan can set a family back around $535 a month, slightly less for a sedan and a bit more for an SUV. That’s a lot of money I’d rather spend on home decor, shoes, or even contributing more to my kids’ 529 plans if I’m feeling generous.
Moreover, cars can be a hassle. As I mentioned, I’m not a fan of vehicles. They’re heavy pieces of machinery that need regular fueling and maintenance. Driving around in our dented old minivan (which is thankfully paid off) alleviates a lot of stress regarding keeping it spotless. The last thing I want to do is remind my kids to clean their muddy soccer cleats before getting in or scold them about the fast-food toys strewn about in the backseat. I already have enough on my plate with their clothes scattered throughout the house.
Additionally, cars aren’t particularly eco-friendly. Aside from hybrids and electric vehicles, they contribute significantly to air pollution. In fact, vehicles are responsible for roughly one-third of all air pollution in the U.S. The gasoline they consume contributes to numerous environmental issues, from ecosystem damage during oil extraction to the risks associated with oil transportation.
I understand that for some families, having multiple vehicles is a necessity or perhaps even a luxury worth the expense. However, that’s not the case for us—at least not at this moment. We’re committed to making it work for as long as we can. As a result, we carpool frequently, walk or bike when possible, and use the train for longer distances. When needed, we’ll utilize rideshare services or rent a vehicle for trips to the airport.
Being a one-car family (for the most part) suits us. We save money, keep our garage less cluttered (though it’s still a one-car space), and contribute to protecting the environment—climate change is a real concern!
So, while multi-car garages and luxury vehicles may be in vogue, I’m sticking with my trusty old minivan, which carries the ever-present scents of coffee, snacks, and kid shoes.
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In summary, managing a one-car family is challenging but entirely possible, and it can lead to significant financial savings and environmental benefits.