Starting Address

You will need to provide your starting address. This is so the public transit service is able to provide you with the correct transit stop to start your journey. This becomes especially important when there is more than one transit stop or mode of public transit in the vicinity of your starting point.

Destination Address

You need to know your destination address. It isn't necessary to know the nearby transit stop at your destination. A transit planner app or customer service employee will figure this out for you.

Special Needs

If you have special needs it is important to plan for these before your journey. Examples include asking if their vehicles are easy to board using a wheelchair, walker, crutches or cane. Are there screens that show upcoming stops? If you have limited vision is there an automated voice announcing the next stop and the best area of the vehicle to sit in order to hear this information?

Transit Route

Find out the transit route name, number or a combination of words that describe the route such as a route name and direction of travel.

Time Of Rides Before, At And After Your Intended Travel time

Find out the scheduled time of the public transit vehicle before, at and after your intended travel. Sometimes this will be on a set schedule (such as every 30 or 60 minutes). Sometimes the frequency may transition throughout the day based on the needs of the community. If you miss your intended ride knowing when the next one comes will help you update your plans and let others know.

Transit Stop Location

Know which starting transit stop to use is. This is especially important when there are multiple transit stops near your starting address. Not all routes use each transit stop.

Frequency

Be aware of the frequency of the transit route(s) you will use during your journey. Then if public transit is running late this will help you adjust your plans and know what to expect.

Final Departure Time

Ask what the final departure time is. If you run late you need to know that you'll be able to get to where you are going. Some transit routes only run for part of the day based on the area they serve.

Payment Method

Find out the available payment options. Just because a payment method is accepted in one community doesn't make it universal.

Transit Shelter Availability

If there is a need to be sheltered from the weather ask if a transit shelter exists at the transit stops your journey will be using. If none exists plan to bring your own umbrella or dress accordingly for the weather.

How To Real-Time Track

If you have a smart phone with data check if real time tracking is available. This is especially helpful when you travel when the weather is unfavourable.