A commuter’s guide: Everything you need to prepare yourself for commuting
Are you a current or potential college commuter? If you are, you’ve clicked the right article. The idea of commuting to college can be intimidating to some. Let me be the first to tell you, IT’S OKAY! I decided to create this guide because it is something I have not seen many people talk about. Whether you are a Rowan University student or a student at another college or university, this guide is THE guide that I believe every commuter needs to read. This article will focus on things you should know before the first day of classes, and some essentials I recommend to have in your car. My plan for this guide extends beyond just this article, as I plan to make it into a mini series. For future commuter advice, stay tuned.
THE BASICS
STEP 1: Know Where to Go
Before you even set foot on campus for the semester, know all the parking lots. And yes, I mean all of them. This means knowing where employees, residents, and commuters park. In addition, I’d also recommend knowing where the parking garages are around your campus, as this can be helpful for when you can’t find spots in the usual commuter lots. As you observe the commuter lots, take note of how to get there. This is especially important as there can be different ways to get to a commuter lot and sometimes, there can be surprises on your way to campus.Â
RU STUDENTS: Here are some helpful linksÂ
Rowan Blvd Parking Garage Info
STEP 2: Know Your Campus Rules
There may be a time when you find yourself late to class; it’s okay, it happens. However, making sure you get to a commuter lot safely is what is most important. Don’t speed in parking lots or create a parking spot, no matter how bad you want to. There are reasons parking spots and speed limits are created. With that being said sure to look over your school’s rules!
RU STUDENTS: Here are some helpful linksÂ
General Parking Rules & Guidelines
STEP 3: Parking PassesÂ
Some schools require you to buy a parking permit. Rowan University students buy parking passes and are sent a sticker via mail to put on their back window. If you have tints its ok, they have your license plate on file. If for some reason you get a ticket even though you have a parking permit, talk to campus security. Every campus has different requirements; know if you are required to have a pass to park on your campus.Â
RU STUDENTS: Here are some helpful linksÂ
Recommended Essentials With Their Do’s & Don’tsÂ
| Recommended Essentials | DO | DON’T |
| Pillow & Blanket | If there is anything you take from my article, let it be this… You NEED to have a pillow and blanket at all times in your car. There will come a time when you will get tired and want to take a nap in between classes. Double up on blankets during the winter; I recommend a comforter + a soft/fluffy blanket as the perfect combo for winter warmth. It will literally be the best nap of your life. However, I ask that you be safe and do not nap in your car in extreme heat/ cold temperatures. 32°F is the lowest temperature you should go down to during the winter. |
– DO NOT SLEEP IN YOUR CAR IN THE SUMMER (extreme heat) – DO NOT SLEEP WITH THE CAR RUNNING/ WITH AC ON (Carbon monoxide is extremely dangerous. If your car has an exhaust leak or blocked tailpipe, carbon monoxide fumes can build up in the car) -DO NOT SLEEP FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME (carbon dioxide from the breath we release can build up when there is no ventilation) |
| NON-PERISHABLE SNACKS | Snacks are a must but…only if you pick the right ones. Energy/ Protein Bars Trail Mix Freeze-dried fruits pretzels/ crackers Beef jerky sticks Chips: good as long as they are thick/ non- greasy. Thin ones go bad faster and tend to be more oily. |
– DO NOT BRING ANYTHING PERISHABLE (TRUST) |
| Tints/ Shades | Tinted windows are great if they aren’t too dark/ too light. If you have tints, that’s great as long as you are comfortable. For those who have tints but want something extra, or for those who don’t, grab sunshades. | |
| Portable Fan | This can be a fan that is just handheld or one that has a little stand. This is just for the hot days on campus. | – DO NOT use it in the car to cool off on a hot day. Outside only. |
| Steering Wheel Tray | One of my favorite car accessories to have is a steering wheel tray for snacking/ eating in the car. Truly is a must. | |
| Trunk Storage | This is really only necessary if you feel you will be on campus a lot and just want to stay organized. | |
| Emergency Kit | There are four emergency kits I recommend, two of which you need to have handy. The two you absolutely must have are: a standard first aid kit and a roadside assistance kit. For the girls, I highly recommend a period kit to carry around with you. The last kit I suggest is for those who have anxiety or panic attacks: pack essential oils, alcohol wipes, sensory fidgets, etc. |
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| Change of Clothes | You never know when there will be an accident, so carry some extras with you. One pair is enough for just an emergency, but if you want to pack an extra for going out, that’s always good to have as well. | – DO NOT GO OVERBOARD WITH THIS… ONE OR TWO IS ENOUGH! |
| Hot spot | This is really just extra and good if you just want to chill in the car or are too lazy to go out. There are different options out there; I recommend that if you are really interested in buying one to do some research to find the best one for you. |