Navigating transit and U-Pass

As a UBC student, you are automatically signed up for U-Pass — a $40-a-month transit pass that gives you unlimited access to TransLink’s network of buses, the SkyTrain and the SeaBus.

TransLink uses Compass Cards — wallet sized cards used to pay fares that you’ll load your U-Pass onto. TransLink has a full list of retailers online but at UBC, Compass Cards can be purchased at the UBC Bookstore, the Shoppers Drug Mart on campus or the Save-on-Foods in Wesbrook Village.

You’ll need to reapply for your U-Pass once a month. You can apply anytime after the 16th of the previous month but earlier is better as the U-Pass can take up to 24 hours to load.

As for what you can do with your U-Pass, TransLink’s network is vast. UBC alone is served by more than ten buses, including two rapid transit buses going to and from campus, as well as the 68 community shuttle which goes around campus.

Beyond buses, there’s also the SkyTrain: Vancouver’s metro train system consisting of three lines. The SkyTrain is augmented by the SeaBus, a passenger ferry that crosses the Burrard Inlet, and the West Coast Express, a commuter train serving the Fraser Valley.

Luckily, apps like Google Maps or TransLink’s trip planner make navigating long bus routes with multiple transfers as easy as entering your destination.

There are a few important exceptions to the U-Pass. It doesn’t fully cover the West Coast Express commuter train — it only subsidizes the monthly fee — and it only covers TransLink services, meaning BCFerries is excluded.

When you head out on transit, make sure you’ve checked when the last buses depart as getting stuck on campus is no fun. The N17 is the only route to UBC that runs through the night.

When you’re on transit, it’s important to follow some codes of conduct. 1. Only board once passengers have finished exiting. 2. Yield priority seating to the people who need it. 3. If you’re bringing baggage or other things with you, such as a backpack, try to take up as little space as possible and don’t block the aisle. 4. Move to the back of the bus on fuller buses. 5. Don’t play loud music and avoid disturbing other riders and transit staff. U