How to Get Around for Free: Free Rides on the Subway in New York City Part I - "Swipes"

If you have ever been to New York City, you will notice that the cabs will suck your life savings in mere moments.  Or is that just because my life savings amounts to five dollars?  I digress.... 
Locals, the working class if you will, typically choose a combo platter of taking the subway and then walking to get to virtually any destination.  This is the method of choice for necessary travel in the city.

At the time of this writing, subway one-trip fares cost the rider $2.50 and go to one destination.  You can switch trains, but you cannot exit the subway station.  Never get out and walk to another subway station by exiting or you are looking another $2.50 dead in the eye with a scowl.  For example: You can take the (Q) train to the (6) train by doing a transfer at the Lexington Ave / 59th St Station by walking through the pathway... as long as you don't exit the station through the turnstiles.  If you exit and return, goodbye $2.50, nice to know ya.

One way to circumvent your wonderful stay in the mass transit systems is by "asking for a swipe."

Eh?  What the?

Yes; asking for a "swipe."  A swipe is lingo for when you run the thin metro card through the turnstile in order to get on the subway plat.  Many people tend to save money by purchasing 7-day ($30) or even 30-day ($112) unlimited-ride passes.  You should strive to do the same if you are the "paying" type.  (Even on vacation, the 7-day Unlimited will come in handy.  Because you will get lost, or at the very least feel limited by the cost otherwise).  And because so many people have these unlimited passes, it's "free" for them to take unlimited rides.  Now... they "use" the ride on the way to their destination.  But what about on the way out?

When an unlimited user walks out of the turnstiles, he could easily give someone a ride through by simply swiping the card for someone walking in to the station.  And this does happen often.  In fact, some people (myself included) will ask someone if they "need a swipe."  It doesn't cost the unlimited user anything, and the rider gets to their destination for free.

Note: When asking for a swipe be polite and friendly, even if a few people say no.  They may not have an unlimited pass or they may be in a hurry.  Anyway you are, of course, doing this because you misplaced your card, right?  You forgot it at home didn't ya?  Silly you.

Also: This requires politeness and social engineering and should only be used if you intend to return the favor when you happen upon an unlimited card.  [To be discussed in the future.  Because I have a time machine].

[For information on metrocard pricing, please visit: Metrocard Pricing]

- Your tireless comedian, Timmy Daniels
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