Here’s how I’m going without it:

  • army backpack from the surplus store $40 NZD (this is a “longpack” it’s pretty big) I can’t hang my wide brim hat over my back hanging from the string while carrying this pack that’s the only downside.

  • wind proof balaclava, $50 NZD

  • Led Lenser 90 lumen “P3 Core” torch, $48 NZD

Then just get some waterproof gear and multiple pairs of boots or footwear. I generally don’t cook where I live because it’s a shared kitchen with 10 other people and I also don’t trust the hygiene of the washing machine, so I walk to the laundromat or go elsewhere.

Bus and e-scooter works really well. I’m pouring money into these services now and chatting with random boomers at bus stops. EV rental is nice but costs a small fortune even for 2 hours. Avoid as much as possible lol, there’s nowhere to park and you risk getting scammed with BULLSHIT parking fines due to license plate recognition cameras being everywhere. Not only fixed ones but built onto parking enforcement vehicles too.

  • utopiah@lemmy.ml
    2·
    4 days ago

    I imagine you did the math already but between the time it takes, the cost to get there and the actual price of paying for the machine I’d consider entry level washing machine (even if you won’t use it for years and you might have to sell it when you move) or a 2nd hand one (especially if you are ready to fix one, could be free). Out of curiosity I checked in Belgium a basic new machines is ~300e and a 2nd that works (but is loud) starts at 40e. It takes some space though but you can stack things on it, again if you are handy installing a plank over. Additionally if you know some people nearby you can trust, you could split the cost.

    … but yes, nobody needs a car for that. People are so “afraid” of a bit of rain it’s silly, just dress accordingly.

    PS: others mentioned a cart, if things get heavy that’s definitely what I’d recommend. When I buy heavy groceries, typically drinks, that’s what I prefer. It’s way easier than putting things on your back. For dry clothes though maybe it’s less maneuverable.