Free-Fare Bus and Private Car Chauffeuring Among 10-12-Year-Old Children in Two Finnish Cities

Fare compensation policy effects on car use are unclear, particularly in the context of children's travel patterns. This study compares the bus and car travel patterns of 10-12-year-old children (n=427) in two Finnish cities, Mikkeli (with free-fare bus policy) and Kouvola (without) and investigates factors predicting the use of these modes. We found that more children were using bus in Mikkeli than Kouvola, but trip frequency and distance were no different within those using bus. There was no difference in number of children driven by car, car trip frequency nor car trip distance. Perceived easiness of bus use predicted bus use only, whereas sport hobbies frequency predicted car use only. Based on our research, we have found that the implementation of a free-fare public transport policy leads to an increase in the utilization of buses by children. However, it appears that this policy alone does not effectively address the issue of car chauffeuring. To tackle this problem, we propose interventions that promote access to sporting activities through public transport for children and their families. This approach has the potential to reduce the reliance on chauffeuring.