Looking for ways to beat the skyrocketing cost of fuel this summer? You're not the only one. Thirty-five per cent of travelers that responded to a survey conducted by the American Public Transportation Association said they are more likely to use public transportation while away this summer than when they traveled last year. Not bad considering that's seven percent higher the Green Travel Forecast survey taken by the APTA last year.

Of the top 10 U.S. travel destinations it is estimated that nine of them will see an increased number of visitors choosing public transportation over cars. However despite the eco-friendly implications of this, it seems to be that cost-efficiency is serving as primary motivation among most of those surveyed.

“With soaring gas prices, the expense of parking your car or renting a vehicle, a growing number of travelers say they will use the local bus and train as the quickest way to save money while visiting major cities,” said William W. Millar, president of APTA. “Travelers also like the fact that its use helps make the environment greener while they can keep more green in their wallet.”

“With growing concerns about the economy, many Americans this summer will look to save money by traveling closer to home to the nearest city destination,” said Millar. “Public transportation gives travelers the opportunity to stretch their travel budget while gaining a unique local tour of the area and that can only be experienced on the city’s local public transportation system.”

Saving money was the most common reason given for choosing public transportation, with respondents saying that alternate method of getting around would cost significantly less than renting, fueling and parking a vehicle or using a cab. Sightseeing was the top activity that people would use public transportation for, followed by dining, shopping and traveling to and from accommodations.

» News Release Wire