Should We Buy Bikes or a Car?

I went a whole summer without a car. I biked everywhere including the grocery store. I had a bike trailer that was a Schwinn. It had a connection to the bike and also a safety strap, so there was a back up method to hold him on there. I bought a 2 seat trailer despite only having one kid, so I had room for cargo. I loved it. I stayed in shape, I spent less money on groceries and only bought what I needed. The store is only a mile away so I could bike home with my meat fast enough. I have never in the 3 years I've been pulling him had him go rolling down a hill and I've never feared his safety in it.

I'd say that if you are that energetic to go for the bikes!!! My son is now 6 and while he can bike his own on very long bike rides I still put him in the trailer. (He's small only 40 lbs) I think it's awesome that you are considering it! A bike trailer may be around $100 but you exceed that easily in gas, insurance, plates, etc. Best of luck to you!!!

If you can manage without it, buy bikes now and then save for your car.

How about a scooter for you to go and come quicker but then add the bikes for more a family thing. You are in tempe....lots of trails to get from A to B . If you don't have to go too far........but it will be very miserable in the summer :0( . All power to you to save the money and gas.

I lived for years with no car in my 20's (as a single person with no kids). Most of the time it was okay if there was decent bus service. The one big hassle was grocery shopping on a bus. Nights when there were no buses and other possible emergencies were also a concern. Also it depend to an extent where you live. Is everything you need in walking or biking distance?

Now I have 2 kids and I couldn't do the weekly shopping without a car very well. In good weather it would be doable but a pain and in bad weather it would be a huge headache. My kids are now 3 and 6. Even with a car taking 2 kids, one who is not old enough to listen consistently is an effort.

I think car is probably a better choice if you can manage it. But you could try freecycle or craigslist for used bikes.

E.,

Invest in a car!!!!! Get your child a good carseat and have them install it at the CHP station. Create a budget for what you can afford and you will be fine as long as you know what you can work with. GL

M