Bus Travel Tips

Bus travel is inexpensive, flexible, and widely available throughout the continental US, parts of Canada and Mexico. Companion fares offer a discount on one fare with the purchase of a full fare ticket. Advanced purchase tickets are usually cheaper than last minute. Keep in mind, however, that tickets purchased for limited sales usually have traveling limitations, such as blackout dates during which the ticket will not be honored.

Carry on bags must fit in the overhead rack or under your seat. Special rules apply to such items as skis and bicycles; contact the bus company for specifications before your trip. Remember that, when transferring buses, your bags are not handled for you by employees. The earlier you arrive, the more choice the seating options will likely be.

When choosing a seat, remember for your own comfort: the back row does not recline, and, if you plan to read while traveling at night, the very front seats do not have working overhead lights. If you don't like to get up and down a lot, you might prefer a window seat to avoid being bothered.

I have always found it beneficial to befriend the bus drivers. During maintenance stops, when the bus is cleaned and serviced, everyone is required to exit. Any time the bus stops, know that it will depart without you if you are not back before the scheduled time. If the bus makes a stop to pick up new passengers, those already on that coach will get to reboard ahead of new people (make sure you get a reboarding ticket from your driver before exiting the coach during the stop). If you miss the reboarding call, someone just may end up in your seat, leaving you stuck at the terminal to wait for the next bus.