Perth is one of the most isolated state capital cities on the planet. It has also been labelled ‘the world’s longest suburban sprawl’ thanks to its 150 km long boundary that takes you from Mandurah in the south to Two Rocks in the north. (Although Sochi in Russia has something to say about that!).
What is not in dispute is that while the public transport system is good in the ‘City of Light’, getting around it is a lot easier with a car.
Not only does the sun-soaked capital of Western Australia have an excellent road network that is easy to navigate (especially with Waze or Google Maps), but there is also plenty of paid and free parking available pretty much anywhere you want to go.
If you haven’t yet learnt how to drive, you should take Perth driving lessons with Ezlicence. But if you’ve already passed your test and don’t have access to a vehicle, here are seven reasons you need a car in Perth.
1. Convenience and flexibility
Arguably the biggest reason why you need a car in Perth is that having one provides you with the ultimate in convenience and flexibility.
With a car, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, without being tied to timetables or having to wait for others.
You can also comfortably take all the possessions you need with you for the purpose of your drive and travel in the comfort of a nice seat.
At the same time, you will be able to listen to music at a volume you like and even have something to eat without others coughing and sneezing in close proximity of your food – which is often the case on public transport.
2. Save time
Another major reason why it’s beneficial to have a car in Perth is that it can save you time. While the city is not immune to traffic jams, often driving to a destination in your own vehicle is much quicker to do than on public transport.
For instance, if you want to head for a swim at Cottesloe Beach, a latte at a café in Fremantle, or make your way up to the John Forrest National Park for a hike, it will typically take you longer to get there via public transport than it would in a car.
3. Easier and cheaper for families and bigger groups
If you are travelling with kids or 3 or 4 friends it can be much easier logistically to drive than to navigate your way through Perth’s public transport system.
Carrying a stroller or multiple bags can be a cumbersome task on a bus or train. However, with a car, you can simply load up the boot with your essentials and head off whenever you are ready.
Additionally, if you are travelling in a larger group, it can be cheaper to drive to where you are going than to individually pay for the public transportation service.
4. Relief from the sun
Perth is known for its hot weather, particularly in the summer when temperatures often soaring above 35°C (95°F).
Under such conditions, waiting for public transport or walking to your destination can really sap your energy to the point that it could potentially lead to dehydration, if you do not have water or hydrolytes with you.
In comparison, having a car with a good air conditioning system can be a godsend, as it will enable you to travel comfortably on even the most scorching of days.
5. Handy for emergencies
If you find yourself in an emergency situation, having a car can literally be a lifesaver. Depending on the circumstance, it can be the difference between getting to a hospital in time for someone to receive urgent medical care or not.
It can also mean helping someone avoid a potentially dangerous or uncomfortable situation, such as having to walk home late at night or can provide you with the fastest means of getting to a person in need.
6. You can take road trips
Perth is a lovely city to explore by car, with plenty of attractions and destinations, such as Scarborough Beach, Adventure World and the WA Maritime Museum to keep you engaged and occupied.
However, with access to a car you can also explore further afield on one of many road trips you can take from the city.
The likes of Lancelin, Nambung National Park and Jurien Bay can all be visited within a couple of hours, while destinations like Carnarvon, Exmouth and Broome are accessible via epic, multi-day, soul-lifting journeys.
If you intend to travel on a road trip with children, here are some important survival tips for parents to follow.
7. Helps us be more social
If you don’t have a car, it can be harder to meet up with friends and family as you will either have to rely on them picking you up or take public transport.
This could result in you becoming socially isolated and possibly losing contact with some of them. But with a vehicle at your disposal, you can easily socialise with your nearest and dearest on a more regular basis by driving too them.
