aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Heading Home for Winter Break? Consider Ditching your Car

Yuk. Avoid this if you can!

Transportation is Western’s biggest source of carbon emissions, and this winter break we all have the chance to reduce our impact and save money. Here are some tips on how to travel this winter break car-free:

Amtrak

Take the train to your destination. If home is along the I-5 corridor, Amtrak is a great option. Bellingham’s Amtrak station is located in Fairhaven, you can take the WTA bus route 14 from campus or 1 from the downtown station to get to the train station. Students get 15% off their fare by showing their Western Card and 18 and under ride free when you pre-book your trip.

Bus Options

Taking the bus is a great option to get a little closer to your destination. Using your Western Card, you can get to the Everett Station for free. From there, buses can take you to Seattle, Lynwood, Bellevue, and beyond. Get a custom bus trip plan by requesting a trip plan on Transportation Services’ website.

There are also private charter buses that go to SeaTac airport, University of Washington, and Seattle’s Downtown Station. Check out FlixBus and Bellair Charters & Airporter for details and routes.

Carpool

Do you have a friend who lives in the same town as you? Or can you hitch a ride to close to your destination and have family pick you up? Not only are road trips with your friends fun, this will save time and money!

Going to the Airport

Flying out of Bellingham? You can ride the bus to and from downtown using WTA route 3 (Airport/Downtown). Or if you are flying out of SeaTac you can take the Amtrak train, public Transit, or private transit from Bellingham. Public Transit from Bellingham to SeaTac is under $6 each way! Get a custom bus trip plan to and from SeaTac by requesting a trip plan on Transportation Services’ website.

Leave your Car at Home

Having a car can be costly! Parking permits, the time and energy to find a parking spot, gas and maintenance, parking tickets... did you know that 41% of Western Students opt to not have a car in Bellingham? And of the 59% who do have a car here, nearly half say they use their car never or rarely. Save yourself money and the headache that comes with having a vehicle and leave your car at home.

If you have an academic year parking permit at WWU, contact Transportation Services to return your permit and you’ll get a partial refund.