No home charger? Here’s how to find the best EV charging stations

Living without a home charger for your electric car? Here’s how to find the best EV charging stations near your home and on the move.

If you’re thinking about getting an electric car but don’t have a home charger, you might be wondering how the logistics will work. Well, it’s not as hard as you think.

In reality, thousands of drivers successfully own and use electric cars without home chargers every day. The key is knowing where to charge, when to charge, and how to avoid paying more than you need to.

With the right apps, a flexible routine, and a few smart habits, public charging can fit neatly into your lifestyle without draining your wallet.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used electric car right here on Carwow. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

Start with the right charging apps and tools

The easiest way to find good charging stations is to stop guessing and start using apps that do the hard work for you.

These tools show you nearby chargers, availability, speeds, connector types, and pricing, so you can avoid overpaying.

Here are some common apps worth having a look at:

• Zapmap: This app lets you filter chargers by speed, connector type, network, and payment method. It’s particularly useful for comparing options before you set off, helping you balance convenience with cost.
• PlugShare: This one adds a community layer, with real driver reviews and updates. This helps you avoid broken chargers and spot cheaper or less busy locations than might not appear obvious at first glance.
• Octopus Electroverse: This brings multiple networks into one platform, letting you access a large number of chargers through a single account. It can simplify payment and sometimes unlock lower rates or promotions across different providers.

Did you know that Carwow has its own EV charging stations tool? This helps you quickly locate nearby EV chargers and compare key details like speed, availability, and cost in one place. It’s designed to make planning easier when you’re on the move, especially if you want a simple, no-fuss way to find reliable charging without switching between multiple apps.

Don’t forget to compare before you charge

Instead of driving around and hoping for the best, these tools let you compare options in advance. This means you can choose not just the closest charger, but the best-value one too.

Many apps also display live pricing per kWh, helping you avoid expensive rapid chargers when a cheaper option is nearby.

Turn everyday trips into charging time

One of the best ways to keep EV costs down is to charge where you’re already planning to park. So instead of making separate trips, you build charging into your routine.

Here are some locations to think about:

• Supermarkets and retail parks: This is a great way to add range to your car while doing your weekly shop or running errands.
• Work charging: If your workplace offers charging, it can be one of the cheapest and convenient options available. You’re likely to avoid peak public charging prices altogether and reduce reliance on expensive rapid chargers.
• Leisure and fitness stops: Gyms, cinemas, and leisure centres are increasingly offering charging bays. These are ideal for slow or mid-speed charging while you go about your day.

Make the most of on-street charging

If you don’t have off-street parking, on-street chargers can be a valuable middle ground.

Many local councils have installed chargers in lamp posts or dedicated kerbside units, making overnight or long-stay charging possible.

While not always the fastest option, they can often be significantly cheaper than repeated rapid charging sessions.

If you can leave your car plugged in overnight, this becomes one of the most cost-efficient ways to charge without a home charger.

Keep charging costs under control

Public charging prices vary widely depending on its location and what type of charger it is, so a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Don’t default to rapid charging: Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers are great when you’re in a hurry, but they usually come at a premium. If you have time, slower chargers almost always offer better value.
• Compare prices every time: Even chargers a few streets apart can have very different pricing. Checking before you plug in helps avoid unnecessary costs.
• Don’t always charge to 100%: Most EVs slow down charging after around 80%. Unless you need the extra range, unplugging earlier can save both time and money.
• Look out for off-peak rates: Some networks offer cheaper pricing at quieter times of day. If your schedule is flexible, this can lead to meaningful savings over time.

Consider memberships if you charge regularly

If you find yourself using the same charging network often, a membership plan may reduce your overall costs.

Discounted kWh rates can make a noticeable difference, especially if public charging is your main source of power.

Even small per-session savings can add up significantly over a month of regular use.

Examples of electric car charging memberships include:

• BP Pulse
• Fastned
• IONITY
• Tesla Supercharger

Some car manufacturers even offer proprietary charge cards or partnerships that bundle public and home charging. For example, programs like Kia Charge, FordPass Rewards, or VW’s Elli offer discounted rates across various European networks for their respective brand drivers.

Some car brands also help take the hassle out of public charging. For example, services like Kia Charge and Volkswagen’s Elli let you access multiple charging networks in one place, with a single account and consolidated billing – and in some cases, discounted rates depending on where you charge.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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