Getting around is often part of the experience when you travel. It’s not always just about getting from A to B, but how you get there, whether that’s by train, bus, or something a bit more local and unexpected. Some of my best travel memories are from being in transit, for example sailing in a felucca down the Nile in Egypt, driving a 4×4 on the beach in Australia, riding the Amtrak train from LA to San Francisco, and exploring the temples of Myanmar by horse and cart.
Around the world, transportation varies a lot depending on the region, with everything from standard options like cars and planes to more unique ones like tuk-tuks, ferries, or even camels.
In this guide I’ve put together a giant list of all the types of transportation from around the world.
Different Types of Transportation (Main Categories)
- Land transportation (cars, trains, buses, bikes)
- Air transportation (planes, helicopters, seaplanes)
- Water transportation (ships, ferries, boats)
- Animal transportation (camels, reindeer, horses, yaks)
- Unique / traditional transport (tuk-tuks, cable cars, funiculars etc.)
Train
Trains are a common form of land transportation used for both passengers and freight. In countries like Japan and France, high-speed rail networks such as the Shinkansen and TGV have made long-distance travel much faster and more efficient. In other places, train journeys are less about speed and more about the scenery along the way.
I personally love traveling by train because it usually drops you right in the center of the city. Some of my favorite train memories include hopping on the Design & Story train in Kagoshima (Japan) and riding the Amtrak Coast Starlight from Los Angeles to San Francisco.
Tram
Trams, also known as streetcars, are a common way to get around in many cities, especially in Europe. They run on tracks through the streets and are usually electric, which makes them a quieter and more eco-friendly option compared to buses.
In places like Lisbon, Amsterdam, and Prague, trams are part of everyday life, but they’re also a fun way to see the city as you move between neighborhoods. If you find yourself in Lisbon, it’s worth riding the famous Tram 28, which winds through areas like Alfama and Chiado. You’ll also find trams in parts of the U.S., including New Orleans and San Francisco.
Bus
Buses are one of the most common and affordable ways to get around, whether you’re in a city or traveling between towns. They’re used everywhere, from local routes to long-distance journeys, and in many places they’re the easiest option if you don’t have a car.
I’ve taken buses in all kinds of places, from short city rides to longer trips between destinations, and while they’re not always the fastest, they’re usually the most straightforward way to get around.
Ship
Ships are mainly used for transporting goods across oceans and play a huge role in global trade. While most cargo ships operate behind the scenes, they’re essential for moving products between countries.
Ships are also used by navies around the world for defense and security. As a traveler, you’re more likely to come across passenger ships like ferries, especially when moving between islands or coastal cities.
Bicycle
Bicycles are a simple and efficient way to get around, especially in cities. They’re popular for shorter distances and are a good option if you want to avoid traffic and explore at your own pace.
In places like Amsterdam and Copenhagen, cycling is part of everyday life, and many cities now have bike lanes and rental schemes (like Citi Bike) that make it easy to get started. Electric bikes have also made longer rides a lot more manageable.
Rickshaw
Rickshaws are a common form of transport in many parts of Asia, especially in busy cities. They’ve evolved from traditional hand-pulled versions to cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws, which are now the most common.
They’re useful for short distances and getting through narrow streets where larger vehicles can’t go. I’ve taken rickshaws in places like Thailand and Cambodia, and while they can be a bit chaotic, they’re a fun way to experience new places.
Taxi
Taxis are one of the easiest ways to get around, especially when you need to go door-to-door or are short on time. You’ll find everything from traditional cabs to ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft, depending on where you are.
They’re usually more expensive than public transport, but they’re useful when you don’t want to deal with routes, schedules, or carrying luggage around.
Subway
Subways are one of the fastest ways to get around big cities, especially when traffic is heavy above ground. They run on underground train systems and usually connect major neighborhoods, airports, and transport hubs.
Cities like New York, London, and Tokyo rely heavily on their subway systems, and once you get the hang of them, they’re often the easiest way to move around quickly.
Motorbike
Motorbikes, from scooters to larger bikes, are a common way to get around in many parts of the world, especially in busy cities. They’re quick, easy to maneuver in traffic, and much easier to park than cars, which is why they’re so popular in places like Southeast Asia.
They’re also used for longer rides and road trips, but safety is important, so having the right gear, like prescription motorcycle glasses, makes a difference. If you’re thinking about buying one, it’s also worth considering things like the trade-in value of a motorcycle before making a decision.
Tuk-Tuk
Tuk tuks, also known as auto-rickshaws, are a common transportation method in many parts of Asia and Africa. They sit somewhere between a taxi and a rickshaw, with a small motor that makes them quick and easy to maneuver through traffic.
They’re especially useful for short distances and navigating narrow streets, and you’ll see them everywhere in busy cities. They’ve also become a bit of a cultural symbol, although the open design means they’re not always the most comfortable or safest option.
Car
Cars are one of the most common types of transport, especially in places where public transport is limited. They give you the most flexibility, whether you’re commuting, taking a road trip, or exploring areas that are harder to reach.
In countries like the U.S., having a car often makes travel much easier, while in other places you might only need one for specific trips. With more electric and hybrid options now available, they’re also starting to shift in a more environmentally friendly direction.
If you fancy taking the ultimate road trip, I’d highly recommend a road trip along the Great Ocean Road in Australia or road tripping through the Cotswolds in England.
Airplane
Airplanes are what make long-distance and international travel possible, connecting cities and countries that would otherwise take days or weeks to reach. Whether it’s a short domestic flight or a long-haul journey, flying is usually the fastest way to get around.
Costs can vary a lot depending on where you’re going and when you book, so it’s worth knowing how to find good deals. I’ve put together a guide to cheap flights that covers how to save money and find the best options.
Ferry
Ferries are a common way to travel between islands and coastal cities, carrying both passengers and vehicles across the water. They’re often used where bridges or tunnels don’t exist, and in many places they’re part of everyday transport.
They’re usually slower than flying, but the views are often the best part. I’ve taken ferries in places like Italy and the Greek Islands, and they’re definitely part of the experience. That said, if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth sitting on deck or bringing along some motion sickness relief tablets.
More Reading: Culebra Ferry: Important Tips for Riding the Ferry to Culebra
Camel
Camels are traditionally used for transportation in desert regions, especially in parts of North Africa and the Middle East. Known as the “ships of the desert,” they’re able to carry people and goods across long distances in harsh conditions.
These days, you’re more likely to experience them through tours or desert excursions. I’ve ridden camels in places like Tunisia and Egypt, and while it’s not the most comfortable ride, it’s definitely memorable.
Jet Ski
Jet skis, also known as personal watercraft, are more about fun than getting from one place to another. You’ll usually find them at beaches and lakes, where they’re used for short rides out on the water.
They’re fast and a bit of a thrill, but definitely something you do for the experience rather than as a form of transport.
Cable Car
Often used to reach higher ground, cable cars are common in mountainous areas and cities with steep hills. You’ll find them in places like ski resorts or cities such as San Francisco, where they help connect different levels of the landscape.
The cabins are suspended on cables and glide above the ground, which means you often get some great views along the way.
Funicular
Built for steep hills, this type of railway is often used in places where regular trains or roads would struggle. You’ll usually find them in hillside cities, ski resorts, or at viewpoints where the incline is too sharp for other forms of transport.
The system works using two connected cars that balance each other as one goes up and the other comes down. It’s a simple setup, but it’s also a fun way to reach higher areas while taking in the views. If you find yourself in Lake Como, for instance, you can ride the funicular to the perched village of Brunate, where you can see beautiful views of Lake Como and the Alps.
Skateboard
Often associated with youth culture and city life, skateboards provide a simple way to get around short distances or just have fun. You’ll see people using them to cruise through streets, parks, or along waterfronts, as well as for tricks and skate parks.
They’re lightweight and easy to carry, which makes them practical in cities, although they do take a bit of balance and practice to get used to.
More Reading: 8 Ways to Circumnavigate the World
Segway
Segways are two-wheeled, self-balancing vehicles that you control by shifting your body weight. They’re often used for short distances, especially on guided city tours or in places like parks and large indoor spaces.
They’re easy to ride once you get the hang of them and can be a fun way to cover more ground than walking. That said, they work best on smooth surfaces and can take a bit of getting used to at first.
Horse and Carriage
Horse-drawn carriages were once a primary way of getting around before cars became common. Today, they’re mostly used for tourism and special events, especially in historic cities where they add to the atmosphere.
You’ll find them in places like Central Park in New York or parts of Europe, where they offer a slower, more traditional way to see the surroundings. It can be a nice experience, although there are ongoing discussions around the welfare of the horses.
Airboat
Designed for shallow water and swampy areas, airboats use a large propeller mounted above the water rather than underneath. That flat-bottom design lets them glide over wetlands where regular boats would struggle or get stuck.
They’re commonly used for things like wildlife tours and exploring places like the Florida Everglades. They’re definitely loud, but it’s one of the only ways to reach certain areas.
Hovercraft
Hovercrafts are a bit different from most vehicles, as they travel on a cushion of air rather than wheels or a traditional hull. This allows them to move across water, sand, mud, and even ice without needing to switch modes of transport.
They’re not something you’ll see everywhere, but they’re used in certain places for transport and tours. It’s a pretty unusual experience and feels very different from being on a regular boat.
Helicopter
Helicopters are used for short-distance flights and accessing places that are harder to reach by road or plane. Because they can take off and land vertically, they’re often used in cities, remote areas, and for things like rescues or tours.
As a traveler, you’ll usually come across them on scenic flights, like over New York, the Grand Canyon, or Hawaii. It’s definitely more of a splurge, but the views are hard to beat. I’ve done a couple of helicopter tours in my life – one in Edmonton and the other in South Australia – it’s definitely a great way to see a new place from above.
Gondola
Gondolas are traditional wooden boats you’ll find in Venice, where they were once a main way of getting around the city’s canals. Today, they’re mostly used for sightseeing, with gondoliers guiding you through narrow waterways that larger boats can’t reach.
Riding in a gondola is one of those things you simply must check off your bucket list when visiting Venice. It’s such a romantic and relaxing experience, and gives you a totally different perspective of the city. They can be pricey though, which is why I wrote a full guide on how much a gondola ride costs, and how to make the most out of it.
Sailboat
Sailboats rely on wind rather than engines, which makes them a quieter and more traditional way to travel on the water. They’re often used for leisure, day trips, or longer journeys, and you’ll see them in coastal areas all over the world.
They’re slower and depend on the weather, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s a much more laid-back way to travel and feels more connected to the surroundings.
Cruise Ship
Cruise ships are designed more for the experience than getting from one place to another. They’re essentially floating hotels, with everything from restaurants and entertainment to pools and shows onboard.
They usually stop at multiple destinations along the way, so you get to visit different places without having to pack and unpack each time. It’s an easy, all-in-one way to travel, although there’s also growing awareness around their environmental impact.
Truck
Trucks are mainly used for transporting goods over long distances and play a big role in how products get from one place to another. From smaller delivery vans to large 18-wheelers, they’re constantly on the road moving everything from food to everyday essentials.
As a traveler, you won’t use them directly, but they’re a big part of the supply chain that keeps things running, especially when you’re on the road.
Dog Sled
Used in snowy regions, dog sleds are a traditional way of getting around in places like Alaska, Canada, and parts of Scandinavia. Teams of dogs pull the sled across snow and ice, often covering long distances in remote areas.
These days, you’re more likely to experience them on tours or winter excursions, especially in Lapland.
Felucca
Feluccas are traditional wooden sailing boats used mainly along the Nile River in Egypt. Equipped with a single lateen sail, they serve as primary transportation or offer serene river trips to tourists.
Despite lacking modern technology, feluccas allow intimate exploration of the Nile, its scenic beauty, and cultural heritage sites. While motorized boats have largely taken over for efficiency and speed, feluccas remain, offering an ecological and authentic sailing experience. My felucca ride on the Nile in Aswan was so relaxing, and with the sun setting in the background, it made my trip to Egypt even more memorable.
Space Ship
Spaceships are used to travel beyond Earth’s atmosphere and are mainly associated with space exploration and research. For now, they’re not something most people will experience, as they’re used by astronauts and specialized crews.
That said, space tourism is starting to become a reality, with companies working on making passenger travel possible in the future. It’s still early, but it could eventually become a very different kind of travel experience.
Golf Buggy
Golf buggies, also known as golf carts, are small vehicles used to get around golf courses. They make it easier to move between holes without having to walk long distances, especially in larger or more spread-out courses.
You’ll also see them used in places like resorts, airports, and gated communities where short-distance transport is needed. On golf courses, details like custom golf ball markers with club logos or event names are often included on the carts, helping keep things organized and adding to the overall experience.
Snowmobile
Designed for snowy conditions, snowmobiles are used to travel across terrain that would be difficult to reach by car. They’re especially common in places like Canada, Alaska, and Scandinavia, where snow-covered landscapes make regular roads less accessible.
They’re used for both recreation and more practical tasks, whether that’s exploring trails or looking into snowmobiles for sale for things like rescue work or reaching remote areas.
Toboggan
Toboggans are a traditional form of transportation used in snowy and Arctic regions, designed to glide smoothly over ice and packed snow. Unlike sleds with runners, toboggans have a flat bottom, which makes them ideal for traveling across soft or uneven terrain. Historically, Indigenous communities in places like Canada used them to transport goods and supplies during winter months. Today, while they’re mostly associated with recreation, toboggans are still used in remote areas where modern vehicles struggle to operate in deep snow.
Sidecar
Sidecars are one of those quirky forms of transportation you don’t see every day, but when you do, they instantly make the experience more fun. Attached to the side of a motorcycle, they create a three-wheeled ride that feels equal parts practical and adventurous.
You’ll spot them in places like Vietnam or parts of Europe, sometimes used by locals but often for unique city tours. Riding in one gives you an open-air view of your surroundings, making it a memorable way to explore while still getting from point A to point B.
Trike
Trikes are a common sight in parts of Southeast Asia, especially in places like the Philippines. These three-wheeled motorcycles are usually used as taxis, and you’ll probably end up riding in one without even planning to.
They’re a simple and affordable way to get around, weaving through traffic and narrow streets with ease. It’s not the smoothest ride, but it does the job, and you quickly get used to how everything moves around you.
Jeepney
Bright, colorful, and impossible to miss, these iconic vehicles are a staple of getting around in the Philippines. Originally made from old U.S. military jeeps, they’ve been transformed into shared minibuses, each one decorated with its own personality.
They follow set routes but don’t always have clear stops, so you just hop on and off as needed. It can feel a bit confusing at first, but once you get the hang of it, they’re one of the cheapest and most common ways to get around.
Dune Buggy
If you’ve ever been somewhere with wide open sand dunes, chances are you’ve seen dune buggies tearing across them. These lightweight, open vehicles are built for off-road driving, especially in desert areas where regular cars just wouldn’t work.
You’ll find them in places like Dubai or parts of Peru, usually as part of guided tours rather than everyday transport. They’re fast, a little bumpy, and definitely not the kind of ride where you stay clean for long.
Longtail Boat
Long, narrow, and powered by a loud engine mounted on the back, these boats are a common way to get around in places like Thailand. You’ll see them zipping between islands, along rivers, and through mangroves, often used like water taxis.
They’re simple but surprisingly effective, especially in areas where bigger boats can’t navigate. It’s not the quietest ride, but they’re quick, practical, and a big part of daily life in many coastal regions.
DUKW Duck Tours
You’ll usually spot these before you know what they are. They look like a cross between a bus and a boat, and that’s basically what they are.
Duck tours run on land before heading straight into the water without stopping, which always feels a bit strange the first time. They’re mostly used for sightseeing in cities like Boston or London, taking you past major landmarks before switching over to rivers or harbors.
A little touristy, but an easy way to see a lot in a short amount of time.
Bamboo Train
Out in rural Cambodia, you’ll find one of the simplest and most unusual ways to get around. The Norry, or bamboo train, is basically a wooden platform made of bamboo slats that sits on railway tracks, powered by a small engine.
It was originally used by locals to transport goods and travel between villages, especially when regular train services were limited. These days, it’s mostly a short ride for visitors, but it still gives you a glimpse of how people once moved around the countryside.
Party Bike
You might hear these before you see them. Party bikes are large, multi-seat bicycles where everyone pedals together while cruising slowly through the city. They’re usually set up with a bar in the middle, music playing, and a group of people celebrating something. Y
ou’ll find them in cities across Europe and the U.S., mostly for birthdays or group nights out. They’re not exactly practical for getting around, but they do turn a simple ride into something a lot more social. I tried one in Palm Springs and I’ll have to admit, it was super fun.
Canoe
A canoe is one of the simplest ways to travel on water, and in some places, it’s still part of everyday life. You’ll find them on lakes, rivers, and even in remote villages where roads aren’t easily accessible.
They’re usually narrow and lightweight, paddled by hand, which makes them easy to maneuver but a bit of a workout over longer distances. Whether it’s used for fishing, transport, or just getting from one side of the river to the other, it’s a quiet and reliable way to move through the water.
Coracle
Small, round, and a little unusual looking, coracles are one of the oldest types of boats still in use today. You’ll find them in places like India, Vietnam, and parts of the UK, often used for fishing or short trips across calm rivers.
They’re lightweight and easy to carry, traditionally made from woven materials and waterproofed to float. Steering one takes a bit of getting used to since they don’t exactly go in a straight line, but they work surprisingly well for such a simple design.
Junk Boat
With their distinctive sails and wooden frames, these traditional boats have been used across parts of China and Southeast Asia for centuries. You’ll often see them in places like Hong Kong or Vietnam, either still used for fishing or repurposed for sightseeing cruises.
They’re sturdy and designed to handle coastal waters, with a look that hasn’t changed all that much over time. These days, they’re just as likely to be carrying visitors as they are cargo, but they’re still a familiar sight along the water.
Suspension Railway
Running above the streets instead of below or alongside them, suspension railways are a pretty unusual way to get around. The train hangs from a track overhead, which gives you a completely different view as you move through the city.
You’ll find them in a few places around the world, like in Germany, where they’ve been part of daily transport for years. It feels a bit strange at first seeing the carriage suspended mid-air, but they’re just as reliable as any other train system.
CocoTaxi
You’ll notice these straight away thanks to their bright yellow, coconut-shaped shells. Common in Cuba, cocotaxis are small three-wheeled taxis that are mostly used for short trips around the city. They’re compact, a little cramped, and open enough to feel the heat and noise of the street as you go. They’re not the fastest option, but they’re easy to find and work well for quick rides between nearby spots.
Maglev
Some of the fastest trains in the world don’t actually touch the tracks. Maglev trains use magnetic levitation, which means they float just above the rail and move incredibly smoothly and quietly. You’ll find them in places like Japan and China, usually connecting major cities or airports. They’re known for their speed, but what stands out most is how effortless the ride feels compared to a regular train.
Chicken Bus
Brightly painted and often packed with people, these buses are hard to miss across parts of Central America. They’re old U.S. school buses that have been repurposed and decorated in bold colors, usually running along fixed routes between towns and cities.
There’s no strict schedule, and they tend to stop whenever someone wants to get on or off. They can get crowded and a bit chaotic, but they’re one of the cheapest and most common ways to travel locally.
Barco de Totora
Made from tightly woven reeds, these traditional boats are still used on places like Lake Titicaca in Peru and Bolivia. They’ve been around for centuries and are surprisingly sturdy, even though they look quite delicate at first.
Locals use them for fishing and short journeys across the water, while some are now used to take visitors out onto the lake. It’s a simple design, but it’s held up over time and still works just as well today.
Cyclos
Slow-moving and easy to spot, these three-wheeled cycle taxis are still used in places like Vietnam and Cambodia. The driver pedals from behind while you sit at the front, which gives you a clear view of everything as you move through the streets. They’re mostly used for short distances, especially in older parts of cities where traffic can get tight. It’s a relaxed way to get around, even if it’s not the quickest.
Hot Air Balloon
Drifting slowly above the landscape, hot air balloons offer a completely different way of getting around. You’ll see them in places like Cappadocia or parts of Africa, usually at sunrise when the conditions are calm. They’re not really used for everyday transport, but more for seeing a place from above without any noise or rush. Everything feels quiet up there, with wide views stretching out in every direction.
Seaplane
In places surrounded by water, seaplanes are often the quickest way to get around. They take off and land directly on the water, which means no need for a traditional runway. You’ll find them in destinations like the Maldives or parts of Canada, connecting islands and remote areas that are harder to reach by road or boat. Flights are usually short, but the views from above make them feel a bit more special than your average journey.
Horse
In some places, getting around on horseback still makes sense, especially where roads are limited or the terrain is too rough for vehicles. You’ll see it in rural areas, mountains, or wide open landscapes where horses are part of daily life. It’s a slower way to travel, but it gives you time to actually take in your surroundings as you go. Whether it’s used for work or getting from one place to another, it’s still a reliable way to move through certain parts of the world.
Canal Boat
In cities built around waterways, canal boats are a regular part of getting around. You’ll see them in places like Amsterdam or Venice, moving slowly through narrow canals that cars can’t access.
Some are used for public transport, others are private or for deliveries, but they all follow the same steady pace. It’s not a fast way to travel, but it works well in cities where the water is just as important as the roads.
4X4
In places where the roads aren’t exactly roads, a 4×4 is often the only way to get around. These vehicles are built to handle rough terrain like dirt tracks, mountains, or deep sand, which is why you’ll see them used in places like deserts, national parks, or remote villages.
They’re especially common on safaris or off-road tours, where getting to the destination is half the challenge. It’s not always the smoothest ride, but they’re reliable when conditions get a bit unpredictable.
Yak
In high-altitude regions like Tibet and parts of Nepal, yaks are still used to get around where vehicles can’t go. These sturdy animals are well adapted to cold climates and steep terrain, often carrying supplies or helping people travel through mountain passes. You’ll usually see them along trekking routes, moving slowly but steadily. It’s a practical way of getting around in places where the environment makes other options difficult.
Songthaew
Common across Thailand, these shared taxis are basically pickup trucks with two benches in the back. They run along set routes but don’t have fixed stops, so you can flag one down or hop off wherever you need.
You’ll see them in cities and smaller towns, often used by locals for everyday travel. They’re simple, affordable, and one of the easiest ways to get around once you understand where they’re heading.
Hydrofoil
Designed to move quickly across the water, hydrofoils are a bit different from your standard boat. As they pick up speed, the vessel lifts slightly above the surface on wing-like fins underneath, which makes the ride smoother and faster.
You’ll find them in places where there’s a need to travel efficiently between coastal cities or islands. They’re not as common as ferries, but they’re a good option when you want to cut down travel time on the water.
Reindeer Sled
In places like northern Scandinavia, reindeer sleighs are still used to travel across snowy landscapes. The sleigh is pulled by a reindeer and glides easily over the snow, making it well suited for winter conditions.
You’ll mostly see them in regions like Lapland, where they’ve been part of Sámi culture for generations. These days they’re often used for short trips rather than everyday transport, but they still play an important role in the region.
Rowboat
Rowboats are about as simple as it gets when it comes to getting around on water. Powered by oars, they’re usually used on calm lakes, rivers, or quiet coastal areas where there’s no need for a motor. You’ll see them used for fishing, short crossings, or just moving between nearby spots. They’re easy to handle once you get the rhythm, and they don’t rely on anything other than a bit of effort to get you where you’re going.
Paddle Steamer
Recognizable by the large paddle wheel at the side or back, these boats feel like something from another era. Paddle steamers were once widely used for transporting people and goods along rivers, especially in the 19th century.
These days, you’ll mostly see them on scenic routes or short cruises rather than as everyday transport. They move at a steady pace, and the whole experience tends to feel a bit more relaxed compared to modern boats.
Escalator
You don’t always think of escalators as transport, but in some places, they’re a key part of getting around. In cities with steep hills, like Medellín or Hong Kong, long outdoor escalators connect neighborhoods and make daily travel a lot easier. Instead of climbing endless steps, you just step on and let it carry you up. It’s a simple idea, but it can completely change how people move through a city.
A Final Word
Over time, I’ve found that how you get somewhere can be just as memorable as where you’re going. Some modes of transportation are purely practical, and sometimes journeys can feel long and tiring, but sometimes they’re also a little bit special.
