Where The Road Forks

Bus Vs Train Vs Plane Travel: Pros and Cons

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: February 8, 2024

Categories Bus Travel , Travel

Home » Travel » Bus Vs Train Vs Plane Travel: Pros and Cons

While traveling overland between cities, you often have a choice between several modes of transport. In this guide, I break down the pros and cons of bus vs train travel to help you decide which is the best way for you to get to your next destination. I’ll cover comfort, amenities, cost, convenience, environmental impact, safety, and more. I’ll also outline the pros and cons of your third option, flying. Hopefully, this guide helps you choose the best transportation option for your trip.

Over the past 12 years, I’ve traveled through 66 countries across 6 continents. My style of travel is to fly into a region and then travel overland. Over the years, I’ve ridden hundreds of buses and trains. In this guide, I’ll share my experience.

I’ve also made this Youtube video to outline the main points of the article.

Bus Vs Train Travel: Pros and Cons

Train Travel Pros

  • You can get up and move around- In my opinion, this is the best reason to choose the train over the bus. Most long-distance trains allow you to get up from your seat without disturbing the passenger next to you. You can exit your cabin and walk around in the hall. You can also walk between cars to the dining car. You’re not stowed up for hours at a time in the same seat like you are on a bus.
  • Trains offer more amenities- Long-distance trains often offer dining, a full bar, and completely flat beds. Shorter distance trains often offer power outlets, wifi, and reclining seats. These amenities often aren’t available on buses.
  • More scenic- Train tracks are built in the most efficient manner between two points. They don’t follow a road. You’ll travel through scenic and rural parts of the countryside that you otherwise wouldn’t get to see. You’ll travel through places that haven’t been spoiled by infrastructure and human activity. The scenery you see on from the train is much more beautiful than a motorway. Some train routes are a destination of their own.
  • You can lay down flat and get a good nights sleep on a train- If you book a bed on a sleeper train, you can lay down completely flat and stretch out. You’re not stuck in a seated position all night. This allows you to get a solid night of sleep and wake up rested. Some of the best sleep that I have ever gotten has been on a train. Something about the way the train rocks and sways on the tracks just lulls me to sleep. The sound of the wheels rolling on the track adds to the atmosphere. On a bus, you can never lay down completely flat. The quality of sleep is poor.
  • Trains are more environmentally friendly- Trains use less fuel per passenger than buses, cars, or planes. If you care about the environment, the train is probably the greenest mode of traveling long distance. The only greener option is walking or bicycle touring. Schedules are more reliable- Because they don’t have to deal with traffic, trains usually run on time. This means you won’t experience as many unexpected delays or late arrivals as you do when taking the bus.
  • You can carry more luggage on a train- Luggage allowances are usually less strict on trains. In fact, oftentimes your luggage isn’t even weighed before you board. Many long-distance trains even have a car for luggage and cargo. There’s really no limit to the amount of stuff you can bring with you. For example, after crashing my motorcycle in Vietnam , I put it on a train with me to the next big city so I could recover. That’s not really an option on the bus.
  • Trains are faster- For some routes, you’ll reach your destination significantly faster if you travel by train. This is particularly true with bullet trains which can reach speeds exceeding 300 km/h. No bus goes that fast. Of course, for some routes, the bus is the faster option. Be sure to do your research before booking your ticket if you’re in a hurry.
  • Train stations are more comfortable than bus stations- This is a generalization but usually, train stations are larger and offer more seating and amenities than bus stations. The reason is that in many countries, each bus company has its own station which is usually just a ticketing office with a few seats. Train stations are usually much larger.
  • Finding the train station usually easier- Most cities only have one train station. Particularly large metropolises may have two. This makes finding the station a breeze. Everyone knows where it’s at. A big city could have dozens of different bus terminals. Finding the right one can be a challenge if you don’t know your way around.
  • Train travel is healthier- While traveling long distance, no matter which mode of transport you choose, you’ll spend hours sitting in the same position. This puts you at risk of a dangerous condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To read about the condition and its cause, check out this article from the Center for Disease Control. The best way to prevent this condition from developing is to get up and walk around every 2-3 hours. This is really only possible on a train. On a bus, you can sit for 6+ hours between meal and bathroom brakes. This can be seriously dangerous for your health.
  • Trains are romantic- Something about riding a train reminds us of times gone by. Our ancestors traveled by long-distance train over one hundred years ago. It’s a historic and sophisticated mode of travel.
  • Trains are higher class- For whatever reason, people tend to consider train travel to be a higher class activity. It doesn’t have same social stigma that bus travel carries. Of course, this only matters if you’re the kind of person that cares what others think.
  • Trains are cool- Some of us are just fascinated by trains. I can’t explain why but I am one of those people. I don’t have a model train set up in my basement* but I think that would be pretty awesome. Whenever I have the choice between a bus and train, I choose the train.

travel by bus or train

Train Travel Cons

  • More expensive- The biggest drawback of taking the train is the cost. Train tickets are usually significantly more expensive than bus tickets. Sometimes up to twice the price. In some regions, it’s even more expensive to take then train than it is to fly. Both the US and the UK have this problem.
  • Fewer destinations- Train lines are limited. Most countries only have one or two. A significant number of countries don’t have any trains at all. This means that you can usually only access larger cities by train. Buses, on the other hand, go almost everywhere on earth. You can access even the smallest villages by bus. For example, in Africa there are very few train lines. Check out my guide to bus travel in Africa for more info.
  • Trains offer fewer departure and arrival times- For most popular routes, there are only one or two trains operating per day. You have to leave at those times. Buses often operate on a much more regular schedule. For example, between two big cities, there may be a bus leaving every half hour.
  • The ride can be rough- Some older or poorly maintained train lines are incredibly bumpy and shaky. This makes getting comfortable or falling asleep nearly impossible. Of course, modern trains are incredibly smooth. So much so that sometimes you can’t even tell that you’re moving. Buses can be bumpy as well if the road conditions are poor or the bus is old.
  • Trains are loud- The metal on metal sound of the train wheels rolling against the track makes a lot of noise. Some people have trouble sleeping because of the noise. Of course, modern trains are designed to be very quiet inside.
  • Slightly more dangerous- Deaths by train accident are so rare that this point is almost irrelevant but I found this statistic pretty interesting so I thought I’d throw it in. According to this statistic , train travel is slightly more dangerous than bus travel. With rail travel, there are .6 deaths per billion kilometers traveled compared to .4 deaths per billion kilometers traveled by bus. I found this pretty surprising.
  • Trains can’t easily access mountainous regions- Trains can’t climb as easily as buses. For this reason, you’ll rarely find train lines running through mountainous regions. In mountainous countries, you’ll usually have to take the bus.
  • Train tickets sell out more quickly- This is my personal experience. If you want to take the train, you usually have to book further in advance than if you’re taking the bus. Seats sell out more quickly. I experienced this in India. For most routes, there are fewer train seats than bus seats available.

a bus in Africa

Bus Travel Pros

  • Cheaper- The bus is almost always the cheapest transport option available. Tickets are often significantly cheaper than rail or air equivalents.
  • More destinations- Buses travel almost everywhere. You can take the bus to even the tiniest of villages. Anywhere that there is a road, a bus can go. For example, I traveled by bus through the Omo Valley of Ethiopia to villages that couldn’t be accessed by train or air.
  • More departure and arrival times- For popular bus routes between cities, there is often a bus leaving every hour. Sometimes even more frequently. In this case, if you can’t leave the city until the afternoon, for example, you won’t have to wait around too long. Trains, on the other hand, only offer a couple of departures per day at most. You might have to wait all night until the next departure.
  • Smoother ride- Buses offer the same or better ride quality than most cars. Older trains tend to shake and sway on the tracks. Of course, new buses and trains are both incredibly smooth.
  • Quiet- Road noise is rarely a problem. Buses also don’t suffer from the metal on metal sound that train wheels have against the tracks. Of course, if a loud passenger sits near you, you’re in for a noisy ride. Once, while traveling to Seattle on the Greyhound bus, a particularly annoying woman kept yelling at the driver to stop so she could smoke. Eventually, the driver stopped at a truck stop and kicked her off the bus. Everyone clapped for our hero of a driver.
  • Slightly safer- Buses have fewer deaths per billion hours traveled at 11.1, and by billion journies at 4.3. Rail travel has 20 deaths per billion journeys and 30 deaths per billion hours according to Wikipedia. Both modes of travel are safer than traveling by car.
  • Buses can access mountainous regions- Anywhere there is a road, a bus can go, for the most part. Trains generally can’t access mountainous regions. Of course, there are some exceptions to this.
  • Bus tickets don’t sell out as quickly- For many routes, you can just show up at the station and buy your ticket hours before travel. If you want to take a train, you often have to buy your ticket well in advance. Of course, bus tickets do sell out. It’s a good idea to book at least a day in advance if possible.
  • Buses can be faster- For some routes, bus travel times are shorter than trains. If you’re in a hurry, do your research before booking tickets.

An old Greyhound bus

Bus Travel Cons

  • You can’t move around- While riding the bus, you pretty much have to wait for a bathroom or meal break to get up and move around. There is just nowhere to go while the bus is moving. On a couple of occasions, I’ve been on buses where the driver kept driving for over 6 hours without stopping. During that time, everyone was stowed up in their seats without any way to move.
  • Fewer amenities- Bus services are pretty basic. There is no food service or bar. The seats don’t lay flat. Most buses don’t have outlets or wifi. Of course, there are exceptions. I found long-distance buses in South America to offer a surprising amount of amenities including meal service, entertainment systems, and comfortable seating. The experience is almost like taking a flight.
  • Less scenic- Buses travel on the fastest road available between destinations. That’s usually the highway. These usually aren’t too scenic. Highways are flat and surrounded by human development. Trains, on the other hand, pass through untouched, beautiful land that you otherwise wouldn’t get to see.
  • You can’t lay down flat- Some bus seats are better than others, but none really lay completely flat. This makes getting a good night of sleep nearly impossible for some people. Trains generally offer beds. Here, you can get a good night of sleep and arrive at your destination well-rested.
  • Less environmentally friendly- Buses burn more fuel per passenger than trains. These days, many people are choosing to travel less for the benefit of the environment. Trains are pretty energy efficient.
  • Less reliable- Buses must put up with city traffic. Usually, they account for this in the schedule but traffic can be unpredictable. An unexpected accident can cause an hour of delay. Trains don’t have to put up with traffic so they can keep a more reliable schedule. Of course, there are exceptions. Trains often run just as late due to mechanical issues or incompetence.
  • You can’t carry as much luggage- Most bus lines have a similar luggage policy to airlines. That is one carry on bag and one checked bag. Generally, your carry-on bag must be smaller than 62 linear inches and weigh less than 50 pounds. The checked bag must fit either under the seat in front of you or in the luggage storage above the seats. Of course, baggage policies vary by bus line. You can also pay a fee to carry extra luggage. Trains usually have much less strict luggage policies. Some don’t even measure or weigh your luggage if it’s within reason.
  • Buses are slower- Because they can’t travel at the same speeds and they have to deal with city traffic, buses generally have longer transit times. This is particularly true in Europe. For example, the bus from Amsterdam to Berlin takes 8 hours 15 minutes. The train takes just 6 hours 4 minutes.
  • Bus stations are less comfortable- Many large cities don’t have a central bus station. Instead, small bus offices are located all over the city. These small offices typically don’t offer any amenities other than a few seats and a restroom if you’re lucky. Train stations, on the other hand, are usually large with plenty of seating, restaurants, shops, and more.
  • Finding the bus station is sometimes a challenge- Because bus stations are often small and numerous, finding the right location can take time when you’re in a large and unfamiliar city. Most cities only have one main train station. This makes finding your way to the station much easier.
  • Bus travel is less healthy- This mostly has to do with the amount of time that you must spend seated while riding the bus. If you spend enough hours seated in the same position, your blood can begin to clot. Usually in your leg. The clot of blood can break loose and make its way to your lungs. Here, it can cause serious problems. This condition is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The solution is to get up and walk around every 2-3 hours. You just can’t do this while riding a bus. You can, however, if you take a train.
  • Buses are lower class- One of the main reasons that people tend to dislike riding the bus is psychological. People associate bus travel with the lower class. There’s a certain negative social stigma to riding the bus. This bothers some types of people.
  • Buses aren’t cool- There really isn’t any history or novelty to bus travel. It’s just a cheap way to get around. After all, nobody builds a model bus route in their basement.

An Indonesian train

Which Mode of Travel is Better? Bus Vs Train

Both the train and bus will get you to your destination in a safe and relatively reliable manner. The choice mostly comes down to cost, availability, and personal preference.

While researching for this guide, I read about a couple of interesting studies that were done to determine which mode of travel commuters preferred. Researchers performed surveys in cities all over the world.

They determined that people everywhere generally preferred trains. Through more surveying, the researchers were able to come up with several possible reasons why.

One common reason was psychological in nature. Many people simply associate buses with bad transport and trains with good transport. This could have to do with history, marketing, physical differences between buses and trains, or our culture.

Another common reason that people prefer trains to buses seems to be social in nature. Many people consider the bus to be lower on the hierarchy of transportation methods. It has a negative stigma. Possibly because the bus is commonly used by people in the lower class. Because of this, some people feel ashamed of admitting to riding the bus. Most people don’t feel this way about riding trains.

A Third Mode of Transport: Air Travel

For longer or overseas routes, air travel is often your only reasonable option. For shorter trips, air travel may not be the best choice. In this section, I’ll outline the pros and cons of taking a flight rather than ground transport. In this analysis, I assume that you fly economy class.

An airplane in the Philippines

Air Travel Pros

  • Faster- A flight allows you to travel to the other side of the planet in less than a day. Trains and buses can’t even cross a large country in that amount of time.
  • Can cross bodies of water- For overseas travel, sometimes your only reasonable option is to fly. Taking a ship across an ocean just isn’t practical for most trips. Most travelers simply don’t have the time or desire to spend weeks at sea. Of course, you can’t travel overseas by bus or train.
  • Flying costs less for long journies- These days, budget airlines often allow you to fly for less than the price of a train ticket. In some cases, flying is even cheaper than taking the bus. The reason is that you must factor in the price of food when traveling long-distance overland. A bus trip across a continent may take several days. You’ll have to eat during that time. You may even have to stay in a hotel at night. Before buying a bus or train ticket, always check the price of flights and factor in any additional costs that you’ll have to cover. You may be surprised.
  • Airports are comfortable and full of amenities- Airports offer plenty of seating, restaurants, bars, and shops. The best airport that I have visited was Incheon in South Korea. While on a 12 hour layover, I took a tour of Seoul and enjoyed a shower after getting back to the airport. All for free. If I had to choose between waiting around an airport, bus station, or train station, I’d choose the airport every time.
  • Flights are more reliable- Because airlines cater to a business clientele, the must remain on schedule. Of course, there are occasional delays.
  • Finding the airport is easy- Most cities only have one and everyone knows where it is. Some larger cities have 2-3. Airports are usually served by public transport as well. Higher class- There is no negative stigma to flying. Fellow passengers will generally be from a higher social class than those you meet on a bus.
  • It’s cool- Aviation is fascinating. I’m still blown away by flight even though I’ve flown hundreds of times.

Air Travel Cons

  • Expensive- Flights generally cost more than bus or train tickets. This is particularly true with journeys that would take less than a day traveling by ground. Having said that, budget airlines often offer rates that are competitive with bus or train ticket prices. It’s best to always check prices before booking. Sometimes you get a pleasant surprise with a low fare.
  • Flying is a hassle- In order to fly, you must pack your bag in an airline acceptable manner, arrive at the airport a couple of hours early, check-in, go through security, wait to board and deboard, then wait for your luggage at baggage claim. The whole process is slow and inefficient. You can’t just show up like you can at a bus or train station.
  • Airports are inconveniently located- Due to the noise, airports are usually built far outside of the city that they serve. Oftentimes 20 miles or more from the city center. This increases your costs and transit times. When you take the bus or train you conveniently arrive in the city center.
  • You have to book in advance- In order to get a decent price on a ticket, you should make your reservation at least 2 weeks in advance. When traveling during the busy holiday season , you’ll want to book several months in advance. Most of the time, you can book trains and buses just a few days in advance. Sometimes you can just show up and buy a ticket minutes before departure.
  • You can’t move around easily- While flying, you’re pretty much stuck in your feet. There are no breaks where you can get up and walk around. Of course, you can get up to go to the bathroom but that’s about it. Unfortunately, this means disturbing the passenger next to you if you don’t have an aisle seat.
  • You can’t carry much luggage- Airlines are particularly strict about the size and weight of your bags. Most airlines allow checked bags to be up to 62 linear inches (158cm) and 50 pounds (23 kilos). Carry-on bags typically must be less than 45 linear inches (about 114 cm) and 22 pounds (10 kilos). Every airline is slightly different. Make sure you check the limits before your flight. Also, be sure to weigh your luggage so you know you’re not over the limit. When traveling by bus or train, baggage allowances are much less strict. Oftentimes bags aren’t even weighed.
  • You can’t carry certain items on an airplane- Anything that could be considered a weapon is prohibited. I had a butter knife confiscated because it had a slightly serrated edge. You must also limit your liquids to 100ml or 3.4 oz bottles. These limits make packing for certain trips a bit of a challenge. For example, I like to camp and hike. Tent stakes, trekking poles, and camp stove fuel are all prohibited. Of course, you can always check a bag, but even then many items aren’t allowed due to the fear of explosion. This includes aerosols, fuels, and large batteries.
  • Flying is unhealthy- As mentioned above, the risk of DVT is higher during flights because you can’t move around. I also feel that I tend to get sick after a flight more often than a bus or train ride. Maybe due to the air quality or pressure changes.
  • Less scenic- Once you reach cruising altitude, there’s not much to look at. While traveling overland, you can at least enjoy viewing the land as you pass by. I will admit, viewing a massive city from the air as you approach for landing is pretty incredible. I’m always blown away by the sprawl of the Los Angeles metro area even though I’ve flown into the city dozens of times. Mountains are also incredibly impressive from the air.
  • Flying is less environmentally friendly- According to this interesting article about the carbon footprint of various modes of transport from mnn.com, a flight produces around 3 tons of CO2 per passenger. Traveling by train cuts that number in half. If you’re the type of person that cares about being green when you travel, you may wish to limit the number of times that you fly. 
  • You can’t lay down flat- In order to pack in the maximum number of passengers, airline seats barely even recline. Of course, if you’re willing to shell out for business or first class, you can get a lay flat seat.
  • Slightly less safe- Statistically speaking, flying is incredibly safe. Much safer than driving yourself. It is, however, slightly more dangerous than taking the bus or train. I found this statistic pretty surprising. I had always assumed that air travel was the safest option.

a modern train

How to Decide

While deciding which mode of transport to choose, the first thing to take into consideration is cost. Check the price of flights, the train, and the bus before booking a ticket. You need to stay within budget. If you’re not sure how much you can afford to spend on transportation, check out my guide to help you make an accurate travel budget.

I don’t always choose the absolute cheapest option. My preferred mode of travel is the train. When the price is reasonably close to the price of the bus, I’ll buy a ticket. If the flight is cheaper, I’ll fly. If a bus ticket is significantly cheaper than either, I’ll take the bus instead. Generally, the bus is my least favorite mode of travel, comfort-wise.

Next, I consider the time of departure and arrival. This depends on your personal preference. Most travelers don’t want to arrive in an unfamiliar city in the middle of the night.

I’m not a morning person so I avoid early departures. If I have the choice, I like to travel by night. The main reason is that I can save on a night of accommodation. This saves me on average $10-$25 on a hotel or hostel. It also saves time. By traveling at night, I can arrive in a new destination with a whole day ahead of me. I haven’t wasted the day sitting around in transit.

My Experience

Each mode of transport has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The choice partially comes down to personal preference. Some travels hate to fly and avoid it at all cost. Many luxury travelers would never set foot on a bus or train. They value time more than money.

I consider my self a bit of a train enthusiast. One of my bucket list trips is to take the Transsiberian railway from Moscow to Vladivostok. Possibly with a detour to Mongolia. Another train ride on my bucket list train ride is the iron ore train in Mauritania. I hope to take those rides and write about them in future posts.

Do you prefer taking the bus or train while traveling? Share your experience in the comments below!

More from Where The Road Forks

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  • Backpack Vs Suitcase for Travel
  • How to Provide Proof of Onward Travel
  • How to Meet People While Traveling Alone

Zachary Friedman

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Sunday 30th of January 2022

Concerning the fact that bus travelling is less safe then train travelling. It is not true. The problem is that statistics, train accidents includes all death and injuries related to train. Most of deaths comes because train can hit other vehicles, bycicles and people who cross the tracks. Train passengers are safe and very rarely get injured during train travel, but train accidents includes all accidents where train are involved. If train hits a car and kills somebody, it is a train accident.

Monday 26th of September 2022

@Ivan Dusan, Oh, so it's only OTHER people who are more likely to die. Great, I feel so much better now! Sign me up!

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10 Reasons To Travel By Bus Or Train

You are currently viewing 10 Reasons To Travel By Bus Or Train

  • Post author: Andrew D'Amours
  • Post published: January 24, 2020
  • Post category: Tips for during your trip / Travel tips
  • Post comments: 4 Comments

We have shared a lot of tips about traveling by plane (we are Fly trippers after all) but in many situations, buses and trains have their advantages, especially for shorter distances. And sometimes even for longer distances.

Once you’ve made your way to a faraway destination by plane, hopefully, you want to move around and see more than just one spot! In my many travels, I often use buses and trains myself for shorter routes. But mostly only when it’s cheaper than flying (I love flying.)

Many travelers are making travel by bus or train a part of their journeys to reach their destinations. This is why we just launched our new bus & train travel resources page, with our favorite search tools for both (as we already had in our top menu to help you find the cheapest flights / hotels / car rentals /etc.)

It may sound counterintuitive to take a longer mode of transportation, but remember that the “journey is the destination” and sometimes, even for medium- to long-distance trips, buses and trains can be more practical than flying. And renting a car rarely makes sense financially when traveling solo; and even as a couple, it’s often a bad choice if you want to save money.

So here are 10 reasons to travel by train or bus. Consider this list next time you have the option—this might change your stance on what the best method of travel is for your journey.

1. Buses And Trains Can Be Less Expensive Than Flights

Okay, the first point is the only long one, because it’s the most important: cost and price is at the center of all we do here at Flytrippers (because saving = traveling more… and traveling more is awesome).

It’s no secret that this is the best reason to choose to travel by bus or train: it’s often cheaper. It’s great if you value saving money over convenience; if you want to travel more often. Remember, traveling isn’t expensive: it’s wanting travel to be convenient is expensive.

Depending on where you’re headed, the cost of flying could be substantially more than going by train or bus.

In general:

  • nonstop flights will be the most expensive
  • flights with layovers will be a bit cheaper
  • trains will be even cheaper
  • buses will be the cheapest

That’s simply because like everything else, convenience has a price: flying nonstop is usually the most convenient, while the bus is the least convenient.

Flight prices aren’t based on distance, so it’s not an absolute rule, but when the route is shorter, bus and train travel is often a better option.

Compare these three different options for getting from New York City to Washington DC:

  • Nonstop flight: $98 ( Momondo )
  • Flight with layover: $67 ( Momondo )
  • Train:  $57 ( Omio )
  • Bus: $11 ( Busbud )

In other words, it’s 400% more expensive to take the train, 500% more expensive to take flights, and 700% more expensive to take a nonstop flight.

Not to mention that $100 saved right there can buy you so many things in the world of travel , like more than 4 full days of ALL your travel expenses in 40 affordable countries. Extend your trip by 4 days, or get a little more convenience for a short amount of time? Your choice.

But like anything in the world of travel, it’s important to always compare. Because throughout my journeys to 60 countries and 46 US States, flying has often been cheaper than both other options, and sometimes trains have been cheaper than buses (and a lot more comfortable).

And another aspect that many never think of, and therefore pay more and then believe the myth that travel is expensive: often it is so much cheaper to combine a flight with either a bus or a train than to just fly to your destination. I’ll give you many concrete examples in a separate article ( sign up for free to make sure you don’t miss it) because we’ll keep this one shorter.

It’s true that a bus or train ride will take quite a bit longer than a flight. But if time is a major issue for you, don’t forget to factor in arriving at the airport 1–2 hours before your departure or getting to your destination from the airport on the other side.

2. Arrive In The Heart Of The City

Another perk of traveling by bus or train is that, typically, you arrive right in the heart of the city you’re traveling to.

A lot of cities have train and bus stations closer to the city center, but most airports are further from the action, much further away from cities as they need large spaces for their operations.

READ ALSO: 10 Airports That Stand Out That Pro Travelers Should Know About

why bus and train travel are great

3. It’s About The Journey, Not The Destination

If speed isn’t a priority, taking the scenic route across a country is bound to be a much more pleasant experience than a closed-off flight. Many railways and bus routes will take you along some of the most beautiful areas of the country as you make your way to your destinations.

You’ll usually see parts of the country you would have never seen otherwise. This is especially true for train travel: train tracks often run through areas untouched by vehicle traffic. I got to go where very few travelers go on my recent 1,000-kilometer 35-hour train journey across Zimbabwe and Botswana and these are landscapes and places I definitely would not have seen otherwise.

Some trips are even oriented explicitly around the experience of witnessing breathtaking valleys, mountains, canyons, rivers, foothills, and forests. We’ll soon share a post about the most iconic train journeys in the world (again, sign up for free to get it first).

why bus and train travel are great

4. You Don’t Have To Arrive Super Early

Train and bus stations are a lot less strict about their pre-departure rituals than airports. As I said, in general, a flight may get you where you’re going more quickly, but that is based purely on travel time. 

For example, domestic flights in the US require that you arrive at the airport 1 hour before boarding, plus an additional 30 minutes if you haven’t yet joined us on #teamcarryon and decide to check baggage.

And in many countries, they suggest arriving even earlier, and many people are quite scared of missing their flights and arrive a lot earlier, wasting a lot of time compared to arriving 20 minutes before your bus or train leaves. And again, since the stations are in the city center—where you’re probably visiting anyway—you’ll save on time to get to the station too.

Then, of course, once you arrive on the other side, there’s the waiting time to collect your luggage, assuming that all has gone according to plan, and your bags haven’t gotten lost in the process. 

5. Better For The Environment

If you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint, then taking the bus or train is definitely a more responsible choice.

Diesel trains, according to the BBC , would produce around 28% fewer carbon emissions than what a flight would create on the same journey. Furthermore, electric trains would produce roughly 64% fewer carbon emissions than the equivalent plane ride.

In all cases, y ou should absolutely not stop traveling, as the positive impact of travel for you as a person is so great. Keep things in perspective: the fashion industry pollutes 4 times more than the aviation industry and there are a lot of other ways that you can have an impact.

And switching a few flights to trains or buses is one way. Even I—the biggest aviation geek out there—managed to do it a few times in 2019. But I also flew for literally no reason, so I’ll cut those out and do better in 2020. That said, I can’t wait to share my travel year in review post with you shortly, and answer your many questions about how I travel.

6. The Comfort Factor

As many people have varying degrees of sensitivity to different modes of transport, trains and buses can often be more suitable options.

While there isn’t a lot of legroom on a plane, trains usually come with more freedom to move about and get comfortable.  You can also get up and walk around, visit different compartments, and stretch your legs. Some trains have dining cars, too, so you’re not really confined to your seat like on an airplane. 

I really love flying, but I also love train travel. It’s a lot more comfortable for me at almost 6ft tall and even being a super cheap traveler (that’s how you get to go on 12 international trips in a year), one of the rare things I splurge on is when a train is just a few dollars more than a bus. I’ll soon share stories about my best train rides too. 

To me, the difference in comfort is huge in a train versus a bus. But I travel by bus too, I recently took an 8-hour overnight one because it was cheaper, and it was fine. And when the bus ride is under 4 hours, there’s no problem at all comfort-wise.

If you are more sensitive than me, trains and buses also mean you won’t have to contend with the stomach-turning turbulence that some experience on flights.

fine dining inside train

7. Better Availability

Plane routes are very limited. There are only so many airlines making trips to certain areas, based on the number of people traveling to that region. It’s hard to make many routes profitable.

With the bus, though, you can easily find a ride to almost anywhere for a reasonable price. Almost all cities in the world are connected to nearby cities by bus. I don’t remember many places with no bus service.

There aren’t as many train routes as bus routes, but in many places, you have a lot of options. This is obviously not the case with flights, at least not nonstop flights.

Generally, there are also multiple buses and trains departing throughout the day, meaning you have much more freedom when it comes to picking the appropriate time for you to travel. With flights, if you want the cheapest ones, you are usually offered just a few flight times.

8. Staying Connected

As we live in a digital age, most people prefer having the full functionality of their devices whether they’re traveling. As signals can interfere with the plane’s instruments, you won’t have access to your data unless you purchase Wi-Fi onboard, but it’s usually expensive and not very fast.

Some older planes (or narrowbody planes for short-haul flights) also don’t even have power outlets to plug in. On the other hand, a lot of bus and train services provide power outlets so passengers can charge their phones, iPads, and laptops (but not all).

Many of them also supply free Wi-Fi so that passengers can entertain themselves, stay in touch with friends and family while traveling, or even get some work done while they’re on the move.

9. Better Booking Experience

There are two types of pricing mechanisms in travel: fixed or dynamic. Almost all airlines have dynamic prices, meaning booking at the last minute is often super expensive.

But in many countries, prices for train and bus trips are fixed. And even when they are dynamic, they don’t vary as much as they do for flights.

So if you want the convenience of booking last minute, buses and trains are great for that. For peak season travel, it’s the same thing: bus and train prices are more regular and don’t shift so drastically like flights, so you can travel for less.

And seeing as trains and buses have more departures throughout the day, it isn’t necessary to book your trip months in advance, giving you a lot more flexibility.

Ticket cancellation rules are less restrictive, too. Some bus services offer a refund or at least the option to change the date and time of your ticket for a small fee. Cheap flights are never refundable or modifiable (and that makes sense, even if it’s a hard pill to swallow for many).

10. Fewer Luggage Restrictions

Of course, we encourage you to stop overpacking and try out traveling light. It makes trips so much more convenient. And cheaper.

But for those who don’t want to try, luggage fees can often add a significant amount to the price of your plane ticket, especially on ultra low-cost carrier routes. Furthermore, you’re more limited when it comes to the amount of luggage you can carry with you when traveling via plane. 

But buses allow you to bring bags for free most of the time. Luggage policies for trains are even less restrictive than on buses. However, before every trip, you should always check what and how much you’re allowed to bring, as, like most things in the world of travel, it can vary.

white and black bus running near the mountain

Bonus: Sociability

Being on a bus or a train is usually a more friendly environment, as well. People aren’t as stressed out as they are when traveling by plane. And they have more time on their hands to relax and interact with the people around them. More space, too: that helps to be more open to socializing.

To some degree, bus and train travel preserves the fleeting aspect of human-to-human interaction that is slowly diminishing more and more in air travel. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing: the more people airlines can cram onboard, the cheaper flying is. In fact, flying—and therefore traveling—has never been cheaper in history!

Want more travel tips—and our 4 follow-up articles listed below?

Our 4 upcoming follow-up articles:

  • Tip about combining flights and buses/trains
  • The world’s 10 most iconic train journeys
  • Flytrippers’ detailed travel year in review post
  • My most memorable train rides

While planes are a remarkable testament to advancements in travel, buses and trains have a lot of advantages and are perfectly fine options to get to your next destination. 

Would you add anything to the list of reasons why buses and trains are great?  Let us know!

Want to see our current discounted plane tickets? Click here to see our flight deals

Want more travel tips and inspiration? Click here to see the blog homepage

You’ll probably enjoy this article: Travel Hacking: Free Travel (really)

Help us spread the word about our flight deals and travel tips by sharing this article and, most importantly, bookmark Flytrippers so we can help you navigate the world of low-cost travel!

Featured image: Train in the UK, bus in Iceland (Photo Credit: Unsplash )

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Andrew D'Amours

This post has 4 comments.

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Absolutely love these 10 reasons to choose bus or train travel! From reducing carbon footprint to embracing scenic routes, this list captures the essence of a sustainable and enriching travel experience. Commendable for promoting eco-friendly and enjoyable transportation alternatives. Ready to hop on board for a greener journey

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Europe has lots of useful train passes. We went all the way through Europe to Turkey on day and night trains.

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Cool! My first night train was actually from Sofia to Istanbul haha!

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Did a 3Day/2night slow boat from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Pen. Cost $25.00 USD. Was a combination of river boats, ferry’s,busses, mini busses, and by foot. Was it comfortable-no, was it fast travel-absolutely not, was it one of my most memorable travel experiences absolutely. Slow travel usually is the most rewarding.

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The 4 Apps You Need For Bus and Train Trips in the US

Making long-distance bus and train trips easier and cheaper

travel by bus or train

Long-distance public transport isn't always a great option in the US. Without the high-speed trains of Europe and Asia, covering such large distances can be time-consuming, and finding the right combination of routes is often laborious.

For shorter trips or those on a tight budget, however, these often-overlooked modes of transport offer a good alternative to flights or driving your own vehicle.

Download these four apps to make the process faster, easier and maybe even cheaper.

To get a good idea of the options you've got available, it's hard to go past Rome2Rio. The app asks for a start and end point, and shows any combination of flights, buses, trains, ferries and self-driving options you can take for the journey.

You'll get price information for each potential trip, along with its duration. Tap one that seems appealing, and you'll see the available schedule, map and a detailed breakdown of each step of the journey.

The app isn't perfect – prices and schedules change faster than they can be updated, and booking or schedule links don't always take you where they should. Still, to quickly discover which choices you've got and roughly how much they'll cost, it's always a useful place to start.

iOS  and Android

Dedicated solely to bus and train travel in North America, Wanderu is an essential part of the ground traveler's arsenal. The app covers over 2000 cities, with comprehensive information about carriers, routes and schedules in much of the United States and Canada, as well as key Mexican destinations..

Enter your start and end points, travel date and time and number of people, and the app quickly spits out a range of options.

On popular routes like New York City to Washington, DC, there are literally hundreds of choices. The app helpfully shows the cheapest, earliest, latest and shortest trips along the top of the screen, and tapping on any of them sorts the list that way. Longer and more obscure routes, unsurprisingly, have fewer options.

Selecting any trip shows detailed trip information, including start and end times and station address. Tapping the location icon loads that address into your favorite mapping app. Booking, too, is reasonably straightforward and done inside the app rather than pushing you out to the carrier's website – a nice touch.

Wandru is available on iOS and Android .

Given the lack of competition on the nation's rails, the Amtrak app is better than you might expect. You can book one-way, round-trip or multi-ride tickets directly, as well as update existing reservations.

Station information is available, along with trip details and information about any delays, and you can board using the barcode shown within the app. You can also check the current status of any train, if you're getting worried it's not going to show up on time.

The app is available on iOS , Android and Windows Phone .

With the biggest intercity bus network in the country, Greyhound can get you almost anywhere you want to go. The company's app has most of the features of the website, including booking tickets, checking schedules, and finding station locations and information.

Real-time bus status and location are also available. All bookings are stored in the 'My Trips' section, making it easy to see which trips you've got coming up. Discounts are shown in-app, and you can access your "RoadRewards" points if you're a member.

Note that it only works for Greyhound-branded services. If you want to use Bolt Bus, for example, it has its own app. Trips also need to originate within the continental United States to be bookable within the app.

The app is available on iOS and Android .

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Bus or Train

This transit app helps you find the best bus or train between cities. You can choose between Greyhound or Amtrak, or other rail providers between your home and destination. Calculate your travel time and the total distance traveled using this tool.

  • COVID-19 travel advice

Considering travel during the pandemic? Take precautions to protect yourself from COVID-19.

A coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine can prevent you from getting COVID-19 or from becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19 . But even if you're vaccinated, it's still a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and others while traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you've had all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters, you're less likely to become seriously ill or spread COVID-19 . You can then travel more safely within the U.S. and internationally. But international travel can still increase your risk of getting new COVID-19 variants.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you should avoid travel until you've had all recommended COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses.

Before you travel

As you think about making travel plans, consider these questions:

  • Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19 ? If you haven't, get vaccinated. If the vaccine requires two doses, wait two weeks after getting your second vaccine dose to travel. If the vaccine requires one dose, wait two weeks after getting the vaccine to travel. It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination.
  • Have you had any booster doses? Having all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters, increases your protection from serious illness.
  • Are you at increased risk for severe illness? Anyone can get COVID-19 . But older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 .
  • Do you live with someone who's at increased risk for severe illness? If you get infected while traveling, you can spread the COVID-19 virus to the people you live with when you return, even if you don't have symptoms.
  • Does your home or destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers? Even if you've had all recommended vaccine doses, you must follow local, state and federal testing and travel rules.

Check local requirements, restrictions and situations

Some state, local and territorial governments have requirements, such as requiring people to wear masks, get tested, be vaccinated or stay isolated for a period of time after arrival. Before you go, check for requirements at your destination and anywhere you might stop along the way.

Keep in mind these can change often and quickly depending on local conditions. It's also important to understand that the COVID-19 situation, such as the level of spread and presence of variants, varies in each country. Check back for updates as your trip gets closer.

Travel and testing

For vaccinated people.

If you have been fully vaccinated, the CDC states that you don't need to get tested before or after your trip within the U.S. or stay home (quarantine) after you return.

If you're planning to travel internationally outside the U.S., the CDC states you don't need to get tested before your trip unless it's required at your destination. Before arriving to the U.S., you need a negative test within the last day before your arrival or a record of recovery from COVID-19 in the last three months.

After you arrive in the U.S., the CDC recommends getting tested with a viral test 3 to 5 days after your trip. If you're traveling to the U.S. and you aren't a citizen, you need to be fully vaccinated and have proof of vaccination.

You don't need to quarantine when you arrive in the U.S. But check for any symptoms. Stay at home if you develop symptoms.

For unvaccinated people

Testing before and after travel can lower the risk of spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 . If you haven't been vaccinated, the CDC recommends getting a viral test within three days before your trip. Delay travel if you're waiting for test results. Keep a copy of your results with you when you travel.

Repeat the test 3 to 5 days after your trip. Stay home for five days after travel.

If at any point you test positive for the virus that causes COVID-19 , stay home. Stay at home and away from others if you develop symptoms. Follow public health recommendations.

Stay safe when you travel

In the U.S., you must wear a face mask on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public transportation. The mask must fit snugly and cover both your mouth and nose.

Follow these steps to protect yourself and others when you travel:

  • Get vaccinated.
  • Keep distance between yourself and others (within about 6 feet, or 2 meters) when you're in indoor public spaces if you're not fully vaccinated. This is especially important if you have a higher risk of serious illness.
  • Avoid contact with anyone who is sick or has symptoms.
  • Avoid crowds and indoor places that have poor air flow (ventilation).
  • Don't touch frequently touched surfaces, such as handrails, elevator buttons and kiosks. If you must touch these surfaces, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands afterward.
  • Wear a face mask in indoor public spaces. The CDC recommends wearing the most protective mask possible that you'll wear regularly and that fits. If you are in an area with a high number of new COVID-19 cases, wear a mask in indoor public places and outdoors in crowded areas or when you're in close contact with people who aren't vaccinated.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • If soap and water aren't available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub your hands together until they feel dry.
  • Don't eat or drink on public transportation. That way you can keep your mask on the whole time.

Because of the high air flow and air filter efficiency on airplanes, most viruses such as the COVID-19 virus don't spread easily on flights. Wearing masks on planes has likely helped lower the risk of getting the COVID-19 virus on flights too.

However, air travel involves spending time in security lines and airport terminals, which can bring you in close contact with other people. Getting vaccinated and wearing a mask when traveling can help protect you from COVID-19 while traveling.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has increased cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment, including bins, at screening checkpoints. TSA has also made changes to the screening process:

  • Travelers must wear masks during screening. However, TSA employees may ask travelers to adjust masks for identification purposes.
  • Travelers should keep a distance of 6 feet apart from other travelers when possible.
  • Instead of handing boarding passes to TSA officers, travelers should place passes (paper or electronic) directly on the scanner and then hold them up for inspection.
  • Each traveler may have one container of hand sanitizer up to 12 ounces (about 350 milliliters) in a carry-on bag. These containers will need to be taken out for screening.
  • Personal items such as keys, wallets and phones should be placed in carry-on bags instead of bins. This reduces the handling of these items during screening.
  • Food items should be carried in a plastic bag and placed in a bin for screening. Separating food from carry-on bags lessens the likelihood that screeners will need to open bags for inspection.

Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds directly before and after going through screening.

Public transportation

If you travel by bus or train and you aren't vaccinated, be aware that sitting or standing within 6 feet (2 meters) of others for a long period can put you at higher risk of getting or spreading COVID-19 . Follow the precautions described above for protecting yourself during travel.

Even if you fly, you may need transportation once you arrive at your destination. You can search car rental options and their cleaning policies on the internet. If you plan to stay at a hotel, check into shuttle service availability.

If you'll be using public transportation and you aren't vaccinated, continue physical distancing and wearing a mask after reaching your destination.

Hotels and other lodging

The hotel industry knows that travelers are concerned about COVID-19 and safety. Check any major hotel's website for information about how it's protecting guests and staff. Some best practices include:

  • Enhanced cleaning procedures
  • Physical distancing recommendations indoors for people who aren't vaccinated
  • Mask-wearing and regular hand-washing by staff
  • Mask-wearing indoors for guests in public places in areas that have high cases of COVID-19
  • Vaccine recommendations for staff
  • Isolation and testing guidelines for staff who've been exposed to COVID-19
  • Contactless payment
  • Set of rules in case a guest becomes ill, such as closing the room for cleaning and disinfecting
  • Indoor air quality measures, such as regular system and air filter maintenance, and suggestions to add air cleaners that can filter viruses and bacteria from the air

Vacation rentals, too, are enhancing their cleaning procedures. They're committed to following public health guidelines, such as using masks and gloves when cleaning, and building in a waiting period between guests.

Make a packing list

When it's time to pack for your trip, grab any medications you may need on your trip and these essential safe-travel supplies:

  • Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol)
  • Disinfectant wipes (at least 70% alcohol)
  • Thermometer

Considerations for people at increased risk

Anyone can get very ill from the virus that causes COVID-19 . But older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness. This may include people with cancer, serious heart problems and a weakened immune system. Getting the recommended COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses can help lower your risk of being severely ill from COVID-19 .

Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19 . If you're unvaccinated, staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 . If you must travel and aren't vaccinated, talk with your health care provider and ask about any additional precautions you may need to take.

Remember safety first

Even the most detailed and organized plans may need to be set aside when someone gets ill. Stay home if you or any of your travel companions:

  • Have signs or symptoms, are sick or think you have COVID-19
  • Are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test
  • Have been diagnosed with COVID-19
  • Have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 in the past five days and you're not up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines

If you've had close contact with someone with COVID-19 , get tested after at least five days. Wait to travel until you have a negative test. Wear a mask if you travel up to 10 days after you've had close contact with someone with COVID-19 .

  • How to protect yourself and others. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • Domestic travel during COVID-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • Requirement for face masks on public transportation conveyances and at transportation hubs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/face-masks-public-transportation.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • International travel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel/index.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • U.S citizens, U.S. nationals, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and immigrants: Travel to and from the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel-during-covid19.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • Non-US. citizen, non-U.S. immigrants: Air travel to the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • People with certain medical conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • Stay up to date with your vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • Pack smart. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pack-smart. Accessed Feb. 4, 2022.
  • Travel: Frequently asked questions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/faqs.html. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19) information. Transportation Security Administration. https://www.tsa.gov/coronavirus. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
  • WHO advice for international traffic in relation to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/articles-detail/who-advice-for-international-traffic-in-relation-to-the-sars-cov-2-omicron-variant. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
  • VRHP/VRMA Cleaning guidelines for COVID-19. Vacation Rental Management Association. https://www.vrma.org/page/vrhp/vrma-cleaning-guidelines-for-covid-19. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
  • Safe stay. American Hotel & Lodging Association. https://www.ahla.com/safestay. Accessed Feb. 7, 2022.
  • Khatib AN, et al. COVID-19 transmission and the safety of air travel during the pandemic: A scoping review. Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases. 2021; doi:10.1097/QCO.0000000000000771.

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travel by bus or train

This is when taking a bus is better than taking the train

O ne’s opinions on cross-city bus travel are, I have found, heavily influenced by geography and hometowns. Not long after switching both coasts (West to East) and countries (Canada to the U.S.), I learned that buses in the Eastern United States have a different and not always particularly positive connotation. If we’re talking about group travel by land, the East Coast opinion is that buses are dirty and rickety while trains are sleek and clean.

This stereotype has to do with the fact that, if you live somewhere between Montreal and Washington, D.C., Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor route is the closest thing that North America has to European or Japanese high-speed rail travel. It is fast, it is convenient and it comes at a price that does not leave you feeling like you should be getting more than just being brought from place to place. The bus is the “alternative” and “cheap” option.

Related: This is what it's like to take a 19-hour train from New York to Chicago

West Coasters tend to have this stereotype less simply because, due to the much larger distances between cities, often neither bus or train is an option. The train routes that exist — the Amtrak Cascades corridor that I have once taken from Vancouver to Seattle and the Rocky Mountaineer which tourists often book as a multi-day luxury journey through the Canadian West with the accompanying price point) — are often seen as a scenic experience rather than only a mode of transportation. And if you’re spending more than ten hours on a bus, you may as well be flying.

Bus travel comes with stereotypes (that are often exaggerated)

The first time I traveled from New York to Philadelphia as a master’s student in 2016, it didn’t occur to me to book anything but the bus because I did not know much about Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and did not have it in my thoughts as something I should take.

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After several years of interrupted living on the East Coast, I have come to appreciate both the affordability of bus travel and the romance and uniquely East Coast convenience of going to a new city by train. But the fact that telling people that I am traveling by bus often results in questions on whether it is “clean” or “safe” made me realize that the former mode of travel brings with it certain stereotypes. I have a close friend who lives in Philadelphia and once again found myself going there from New York on a weekend. I travel between the two cities every few months but, as this time I got there by bus and went back by Amtrak, I thought I’d compare the two.

I took the Megabus at 9:15 in the morning on a $18.98 ticket. The website initially promotes it as $14.99 but, somewhere between clicking on it and going to pay, a $3.99 booking fee gets added on. The Amtrak has recently made a push to attract more customers with a pricing structure in which you can get fares between nearby East Coast cities for as low as $10 but, to take advantage, you have to either book far in advance (I’m extremely spontaneous) or travel at very unconventional hours. The Philadelphia-New York route can set you back as much as $200 at 10 a.m. on a Friday or 6 p.m. on a Sunday but, by clicking around and refreshing, I found a price for $20 leaving at 9 p.m. At other times, I found that initially low prices on the Amtrak website disappear within an hour or even just as you’re typing your credit card number even when you go to book.

When it comes to price, bus travel is more consistently affordable but those who are on the East Coast and are flexible can take advantage of very low train fares as well.

Again, no major differences. I find the bus downright luxurious when it is traveling half-empty and everyone gets an empty seat next to them. My particular Megabus route to Philadelphia was not even a third full and so I spread out and looked out the window. Perhaps the biggest advantage of the Amtrak is that you can work on a laptop without developing a serious neck cramp. Seats come with pull-out tray tables and you can also go to the cafe area for even more room to spread out. While many buses do offer Wi-Fi, I found Amtrak’s to be faster and more consistent. Both the bus and the train were clean and I had no safety concerns on this particular trip.

Speed: 

As road travel depends on traffic, the Amtrak wins over many who travel between cities for business by consistency. Short of some kind of incident on the rails, you know exactly when you’re getting into town and are much less at the mercy of the unexpected. If going between New York and Philadelphia, the train is also faster — the high-speed train covers the 82 miles in an hour and 18 minutes and the slower one comes in at 90 minutes — while the bus takes just under two hours in perfect traffic conditions. One time, I got stuck in weekend traffic on the Interstate 86 for four hours. But I have also traveled on buses that got me from New York to Philadelphia in an hour and 40 minutes with minimal traffic.

Centrality: 

Another major advantage of the train is that, in most cities, the train station is located smack in the middle of town. It’s not that buses are necessarily different but, specifically in Philadelphia, plans to  construct a new sports arena  led, in June 2023, to the closure of a longtime bus station near Reading Market. What ensued was a hot mess of poor planning and power tugs. The two companies had initially joined Megabus in dropping and picking up travelers on a busy stretch of Market Street but, after a slew of of resident and business-owner complaints about congestion, the city moved the pick-up point to the side of town in Northern Liberties. While a real bus station will hopefully be built at some point (the sixth largest city in the U.S. can’t be without a functioning bus station, right? Right?!), getting dropped off by the side of a highway a long walk from downtown is currently the biggest disadvantage of bus travel to Philadelphia from any city.

The final word:

So is the bus better or is the train better? The not-particularly-catchy conclusion is that it depends. It depends on whether you’re willing to pay more for what, in the end, amounts to pretty minor differences in convenience. How much these differences will either bother you or make you feel that you’re getting your money’s worth will also depend on a large number of factors unique to one's position in life and reasons for travel. I personally will take either if it helps me save for another trip but also feel that bus travel gets a bad rap. It is a perfectly good way of traveling between nearby cities.

A Megabus passes by a regional train on Philadelphia’s Ben Franklin Bridge. -lead

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Affordable bus travel from Greyhound

More travel options, enjoy free onboard entertainment, reserve a seat, need to make a change, discover all the places you can go.

Choose from almost 2,300 destinations with Greyhound, FlixBus and our connecting partners!

Greyhound connects thousands of communities across North America by providing convenient, comfortable and affordable bus travel .

With almost 2,300 destinations across the U.S., Canada and Mexico, Greyhound helps you travel when you want, from where you want. Leave from big cities like New York , Chicago , Atlanta or from smaller cities like Omaha , El Paso , Albany . Big or small, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re booking online or using our Greyhound app we’ve made planning your bus trip easy. You can find ticket prices, up to date bus schedules and bus station information all in one place. Then when you’re ready to travel you can buy your bus ticket online and keep your ticket on your smartphone, so no need to print it out!

With Greyhound you can always travel stress-free . Track My Bus gives you real-time bus stop information and up to date bus timetables. Just add your line number or confirmation number and you can stay up to date on your journey.

Onboard, sit back in our all leather, reclining seats while you’re enjoying our free onboard entertainment (Movies, Games, TV!) or surfing our free Wi-Fi . Stay charged with in seat power ports.

Explore Popular Destinations and Connections

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The Backpacking Site

How to Travel by Bus in the USA

Why travel by bus in the usa.

Buses operate 24 hours a day, so many travelers opt to take sleeper buses to avoid wasting waking hours traveling. While it is certainly possible to sleep on these buses, you would probably find yourself needing a night in a real bed after a few days of sleeping on buses!

The buses make intermediate stops to pick up and let off passengers, and pull over at rest stops every few hours, including breaks at typical meal times.

Not only is bus travel in the USA an affordable way to get around the country, bus travel is the more eco-friendly option for traveling. Win-win!

Travel by Greyhound Bus in the USA

Greyhound Bus is the largest network in North America and is one of the best ways to travel by bus. The Greyhound US bus network includes 3700 locations throughout the United States, and can take you to a further 1300 in Canada. With such a large selection of destinations and an attractive range of ticketing options, Greyhound is an excellent choice for the backpacker looking to cover a large distance on a budget.

Greyhound Bus Comfort

Greyhound buses are well-equipped with all the usual modern conveniences that you come to expect when traveling in the States. Buses have climate control, so you don’t have to worry about keeping cool while you are traveling around. Furthermore, buses are equipped with restrooms, reclining seats, and tinted windows. You will find that on popular routes, buses are even equipped with tv/video equipment.

Flexible Fares

Greyhound offers an impressive range of different fare and discount options, including discounts for children, students, the elderly, and military personnel. Military personnel and students with a valid ID card can save up to 10% off of fares.

You can buy online ahead of time, which will guarantee you the lowest possible fare. The online Fare types range from Economy, Economy Extra, and Flexible. The economy fare is the cheapest fare, but will cost money if you need to change your bus.

The Flexible fare costs a bit more but allows you to change your trip without any extra fees. You can always purchase your tickets directly in the terminal. 

The general tips for scoring the cheapest fares are to travel on Tuesdays and Wednesday, and to book online at least 7 days before your journey. The Greyhound website boasts that this can save you up to 30% of the ticket costs.

Greyhound Food Services

Greyhound operates its own cafeterias and gift shops at many stop-off points, and food is typical American fast food. Expect to choose from items like Pizza, Burgers, Chicken, and sandwiches. As can be expected at these locations where Greyhound has a “captive audience,” prices are slightly above average rates, but using these facilities is the easiest way to get a quick bite to eat while traveling.

Per Greyhound’s food policy , you will want to stock up for your trip. You can bring food and drink on the Greyhound bus with you. Remember, certain drinks and foods lend themselves better for travel. If you are traveling for an extended time, you may not want food that needs to be refrigerated. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on Greyhound buses.

Drawbacks to Greyhound Bus

Many Americans complain that Greyhound is slow compared to traveling by train or plane , but for a backpacker who can find something to see at every major stop on the route, this isn’t really a concern.

Greyhound Alternatives in the US

Greyhound has been around for the longest, but there are some newer bus companies that offer more options for anyone who wants to travel by bus in the USA. Since there are so many different companies offering bus travel in the USA, you should use the search site BusBud , which will show you options for Greyhound , Flixbus , Megabus , along with the regional bus companies.

Flixbus is one of the best Greyhound alternatives in the USA. They have an extensive network along popular travel routes along the West Coast and Southwest part of the USA. Flixbus USA covers popular bus routes all across the country and keep expanding every year.

They have an extensive network of bus routes in California, Arizona, and Nevada where they are the best option for traveling by bus. Flixbus has recently expanded to connect popular East Coast hubs like New York, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Boston.

Their buses are comfortable and their fares are affordable, with onboard restroom facilities and Wi-Fi. Some routes even offer in-seat entertainment. Despite all these perks, Flixbus is an incredibly affordable way to travel in the USA.

Megabus started out as a bus company on the East Coast is the local favorite for navigating between major cities like New York, Boston, and Washington, DC. They cover routes reaching more than 100 cities in the USA. Like Flixbus, their seats are large and comfortable with reclining seats and Wi-Fi onboard most buses.

Another alternative to bus travel is to travel by RV in the US . Especially if you’re traveling with a few other people, this could be an even more economical choice since you’ll be combining the costs for accommodation and transport.

You also have more flexibility with your itinerary, not to mention the ability to sleep in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring national parks. We cover everything you need to know about RV travel, as well as some incredible RV road trip routes in our article How to Travel the USA with an RV .

If you’re interested in renting an RV for an upcoming trip, check out RV Share . It’s an online database of privately owned RV’s that are available for rent, sort of like Airbnb for motorhomes and campervans.

Organized Group Travel

If you’re in the USA for a backpacking trip, there are situations when it might make sense to go with a guide or a small group. For these times, one popular option among backpackers is Contiki tours. These trips are geared toward travelers 18-35, and offers more than just transportation, it’s an organized social group travel, which is perfect for young solo travelers. There are Contiki tours that cover the entire United States or specific regions.

Another option for group travel is  G Adventures . They hand-select local guides to ensure authenticity and quality, and their affordable tours include accommodation for a range of budgets. Going with G Adventures is especially a good option for those traveling the USA alone who would like to meet up with like-minded travelers. Their most popular road trips in the USA are their 7-day New York to Nashville road trip and their 7-day San Diego, Grand Canyon, & Las Vegas tour.

Health and Safety while Traveling by Bus in the USA

As with traveling on any public transport, make sure you keep an eye on your luggage. Thefts do happen from time to time, but taking simple precautions like making sure your luggage is stowed away properly makes this much less likely to happen to you.

You should also lock your luggage with a TSA-approved padlock . If you’re concerned, we liked our experience with World Nomads travel insurance . They include accident protection as well as coverage against theft and travel interruptions.

Traveling on buses for long periods carries the same risks of Deep Vein Thrombosis as air travel. At rest stops, take the opportunity to get out and stretch your legs. If you’ll be traveling for a long bus journey in the USA, it’s wise to wear compression socks to prevent swelling. If you’re traveling on an overnight bus, you might also want to bring a travel pillow to avoid waking up with a bad sprain in your neck.

Useful Links for Bus Travel in the USA

  • BusBud – US nationwide search engine for buses. Search Greyhound , Flixbus , Megabus , and regional companies
  • Flixbus – Large luxury buses serving certain major routes in the USA
  • Megabus – Another option for buses covering popular routes on the East Coast
  • Contiki – Organized group travel for 18-35 year olds
  • USA Greyhound Website – main USA webpage for Greyhound buses
  • RV Share – Largest RV Rental Marketplace in the US.
  • USA Train Travel
  • Backpacking in the USA

Liked this article? Share it with others who might be after the same information!

A guide on how to travel by bus in the USA. Great information on bus services and Greyhound alternatives.

Clark, thank you for posting information on your website about bus travel in the United States. However a lot of the info that I read was in accurate . It looks as if the one who posted it simply took someone else’s information an posted it to your site. I work in the bus industry and it needs to be shown how this industry is hurting by the pandemic. Furthermore I’m always hearing reports on tv about the airline industry, but nothing about the bus industry. Holiday travel, weather related issues all affect this industry yet nothing is ever said on the air. We need exposure, we need to let the world know that were here and ready to get on the road. We should be telling the stories of how the federal government has left us. How FEDs always help the airlines, ut never the buslines.

Tanja scheffler

Hello is there a montly pass discovery available?

monica

Hi Tanja – Unfortunately Greyhound does not offer monthly passes. There are commuter fares available on certain routes , as well as discounts for military or students. Our advice for scoring the best deal is to book online at least 7 days ahead of time, and to travel on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Hope this helps!

hussein mostafa

Hello how can I travel from New York city (air port Kennedy) to Pitt-Greenville Airport (PGV / KPGV) BY Greyhound Bus ? How much does it cost me, and how long the trip take? .Best Regards

Tim Albert

Couldn’t agree more with Wallace Inman. Buses are so undervalued and undersupported as a way of travel. Before the pandemic I revisited the trip I had taken around USA on Greyhound buses in 1969. It was still a great ride – and a wonderful way of getting to the real America.

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TRAVELREST Ultimate Travel, Neck & Body Pillow for On-The-Go - Straps to Plane & Car Seat - Adjustable, Compact, Convenient for Airplane, Auto, Bus, Train & Office Nap (Rolls Up Small) (Red)

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TRAVELREST Ultimate Travel, Neck & Body Pillow for On-The-Go - Straps to Plane & Car Seat - Adjustable, Compact, Convenient for Airplane, Auto, Bus, Train & Office Nap (Rolls Up Small) (Red)

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  • TOP TRAVEL PILLOW OF 2022 - EXPERTLY RECOGNIZED BY CNN: DISCOVER THE TRAVELREST ULTIMATE TRAVEL PILLOW, endorsed by LeBlanc, as the pinnacle of travel comfort for upright sleeping. This remarkable pillow boasts a distinctive design, catering to travelers occupying various seat positions – be it the aisle, window, or even the middle seat dreaded by many.
  • ENHANCE EVERY JOURNEY'S SLEEP QUALITY: Presenting the Travelrest All-in-One Inflatable Neck and Body Pillow, a travel companion that transforms your rest experience. Crafted to offer unparalleled support, it turns any seat into a snug haven, ensuring you make the most of your travel moments in rejuvenating slumber.
  • COMPLETE BODY SUPPORT FOR DEEP SLEEP: This pillow gives you full side-to-side upper body support, making sleep while traveling a breeze. Leaning into it feels natural, letting you rest well on planes, buses, trains, and more. This travel must-have stops your head from dropping forward, keeping your head and neck in the right position. A great choice if you need extra soothing neck support, especially helpful for people with persistent discomfort.
  • UNIVERSAL COMFORT FOR ALL AGES: No matter your age, this versatile pillow provides unmatched comfort. It's a perfect companion whether you're on a plane, bus, train, or anywhere else. Wherever you find yourself, this pillow ensures you get the sleep you need. The design also shows gray and blue stylish colors.
  • EFFORTLESS SETUP AND STORAGE: With easy inflation requiring just a few puffs and simple deflation by tapping the flap, this pillow streamlines your travel experience. Compact and convenient, it rolls up neatly and attaches to your bag, always ready for action. The removable cover is machine washable, ensuring a clean and soft journey every time.

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Ergonomic & Patented

Patented Ergonomic design provides proper support to prevent tension and neck strain. Side sleepers love it!

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The best comfort in travel.

With its patented ergonomic shape, the Travelrest inflatable travel pillow attaches to the 'wings' of an airline seat, headrest of a car, or can be worn 'messenger bag style', nestling against the head and neck to provide support and comfort in flight or on the road.

  • Provides Full Lateral Support for the upper body making it easier to relax, fall asleep, and stay asleep longer.
  • Promotes proper head and neck alignment - Keeps Head From Falling Forward.
  • Easily loops over headrests in cars and airline seat wings.
  • Position across the torso or down the side. Wear like a messenger bag or tether to an airline seat.
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Inflatable - Washable - Versatile

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Luxurious Travelrest velour and memory foam cover also sold on Amazon

A soft and washable plush velour cover with memory foam only where you rest your head. All the comfort of memory foam without the bulk of a 100% memory foam pillow Adds a new dimension of comfort to the Travelrest travel pillow. Easily rolls up with pillow and attaches to outside of luggage for easy access.

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Travelrest - Ultimate Travel Pillow / Neck Pillow - Ergonomic, Patented & Adjustable for Airplanes, Cars, Buses, Trains, Office Napping, Camping, Wheelchairs (Rolls Up Small)

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To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, portability, and appearance of the body positioner. They mention that it's a good travel pillow, effective, and versatile. They appreciate the inflation. That said, opinions are mixed on ease of setup, stability, comfort, and performance.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the body positioner. They say it's a good travel pillow, effective, and well-made. Customers also mention that the valve is sturdy and effective, with a hard plastic cap. Overall, they find it to be the most convenient travel pillow out there.

"... Takes the strain out of my neck /shoulders when I can rest my head over to the side. I would definitely recommend this pillow to anyone...." Read more

"...On that return flight, I slept like a baby and awoke with no neck pain at all ...." Read more

"...Easy to inflate and never has leaked air. Comfortable and easily portable . Bought in 2017 still impresses me so writing review in 2024...." Read more

"...Using the pillow in this fashion is easier and more secure . I'd recommend using the pillow this way virtually all of the time.2...." Read more

Customers like the inflation of the body positioner. They mention that it inflates and deflate easily. They also appreciate the ability to quickly deflating and store the pillow back in their backpack. The pillow rolls up super easily and inflats in about 4-5 big breaths. It has a large valve and is fully inflated with just a few puffs of air. It deflats with the touch of a button.

"...Pros: Very comfortable, easy to inflate and deflate , very portable, very easy to pack/carry - very compact when deflated...." Read more

"...When deflated, it takes up almost no room in your bag. It shrinks to almost nothing ...." Read more

"...As all the reviews say, the pillow is extremely easy to inflate , deflate and store. It takes up virtually no space in my carry on...." Read more

"Have had for 6 years. This pillow is perfect for its designed use. Easy to inflate and never has leaked air. Comfortable and easily portable...." Read more

Customers like the portability of the body positioner. They mention that it's small enough to slip in a bag, and it takes up a minimum of space in their carry on bag.

"...and deflate, very portable, very easy to pack/carry - very compact when deflated . Very easy to adjust firmness and settle into...." Read more

"...It takes up virtually no space in my carry on...." Read more

"...Not heavy either. Small enough to slip in a bag or use the snap to attach to a handle of your bag, or slide into a water bottle pocket...." Read more

"...It is also very easy to deflate, rolls up, and takes up a minimum of space in your carry on bag.2...." Read more

Customers like the appearance of the body positioner. They say it has an interesting design, with an awesome filler valve design. They also appreciate the foam inserts that add a nice touch of luxury. Customers also say the form factor is great and the deep crimson color is nice. They consider it superior to a traditional neck pillow and versatile.

"Have had for 6 years. This pillow is perfect for its designed use . Easy to inflate and never has leaked air. Comfortable and easily portable...." Read more

"...Love it in the car as well and it's versatile - most often use as the photo shows but have used for neck support in the car..." Read more

"...In my estimation, it is superior to a traditional neck pillow , but has its share of advantages and disadvantages...." Read more

"...It's just horrible. It's not very comfortable, flattering , or sanitary. My head often drops forward and I wake up with a jolt too...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the comfort of the body positioner. Some mention it's comfortable and convenient, providing a comfortable barrier. However, others say that it'll not be as comfortable as sleeping with a real pillow, it'd be a bit too soft, and the cover doesn't mask the inflated vinyl feel.

"...in the theatre for the long movies and this thing is just so comfortable no matter where you're sitting to just blow it up and lean/hug into it...." Read more

"...It is very easy to get the firmness just to your liking, and it takes another minute to find that right position of comfort..." Read more

"...the plane, but because there was a concave window well, I could not get comfortable at all ...." Read more

"...Easy to inflate and never has leaked air. Comfortable and easily portable. Bought in 2017 still impresses me so writing review in 2024...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the performance of the body positioner. Some mention they are satisfied with how it works, it's durable and effective. They say it works really nicely in the car and living room. However, others say that it didn't work for them, it can work poorly on certain airplanes, and the sharp edges make it not great to use if not covered.

"...In a nutshell, it performed extremely well .I must say that there is a 'learning curve' when it comes to using the pillow...." Read more

"...It works especially well if you have a window seat and can stuff it into the corner (obviously), but I also used it while sitting in a middle seat..." Read more

"...This can work pretty poorly on certain airplanes because A. the seat backs in are sometimes slick, B. the nylon rope doesn't have any traction to it..." Read more

"...It is vastly more comfortable and competent than its semicircular brethren, actually allowing for a decent interval of rest without the need for..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the stability of the body positioner. Some mention it stays in place better, helps with stabilizing his head position while sitting up, and keeps his head upright. However, others say that it invariably slips out of place and require constant readjustments.

"...the other hand, when sitting in an aisle seat, it makes it much easier to keep in place ...." Read more

"...It's not very comfortable, flattering, or sanitary. My head often drops forward and I wake up with a jolt too. I just hate it...." Read more

"...This creates a snug fit and keeps it in place (keeps your arms close to you too)...." Read more

"...It was sliding off my shoulder .In the end, I was terribly disappointed...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the ease of setup of the body positioner. Some find it easy to use and convenient, while others say it's awkward and hard to assemble.

"...big, relatively speaking, but this is good since it makes it easy even for big people to hold it in place while sleeping if you don't use the belt..." Read more

"...It was amazingly comfortable, and so simple I should have thought of it sooner...." Read more

"...I still wonder if something is a little off with mine - it's not as easy to do as the video makes out, and in particular I found it difficult to..." Read more

"...Using the pillow in this fashion is easier and more secure. I'd recommend using the pillow this way virtually all of the time.2...." Read more

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AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 44 Million Travelers Leaving Town for Unofficial Start of Summer

Second highest memorial day holiday travel forecast since aaa began tracking in 2000.

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WASHINGTON, DC (May 13, 2024) – AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period*. This year’s total number of travelers is a 4% increase over last year and comes close to matching 2005’s record of 44 million Memorial Day travelers.  

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”   

travel by bus or train

Road trips are expected to set a record. AAA projects 38.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, the highest number for that holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The number of drivers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019. Traveling by car is appealing for many people because of the convenience and flexibility it provides. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Boston and Las Vegas are the cities displaying the highest rental demand , with the busiest pick-up days projected to be Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24.  

This Memorial Day weekend drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was roughly $3.57.  Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks. Prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway. The wildcard remains the cost of oil, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.  

Airports are bracing for a spike in travelers. AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019. This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11. This Memorial Day weekend, air ticket prices are comparable to last year. AAA booking data shows a 1% to 2% increase in prices for domestic flights. Several factors play into how much travelers pay for airfare, including destination, number of stops, and fare class. For example, passengers who book nonstop flights with seat selection and carry-on bags included will likely pay more than those who select basic economy with a layover.  

  Nearly two million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. AAA projects 1.9 million people will take these other modes of transportation, an increase of 5.6% compared to last year. “This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic with fewer people taking public transportation or not cruising at all,” Twidale said. “Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Travel demand has been soaring, and long holiday weekends create the perfect windows for getaways.”  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.   

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX.  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT

Source: INRIX   

Source: INRIX  

Top Destinations 

This Memorial Day weekend, travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California. Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver rank high because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed. European cities dominate the international list. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Travel Trends   

As travelers make plans for summer and beyond, AAA Travel has identified the following trends:  

  • Bucket Lists : Travelers taking once-in-a-lifetime trips  
  • Milestones : Families booking anniversary, retirement, and family reunion trips  
  • Asia : More travelers interested in visiting Asia, especially Japan   
  • Solo Trips : More people, especially women, interested in traveling by themselves  
  • Luxury Vacations : More travelers seeking high-end cruises and tours  
  • Trains : Many travelers interested in rail vacations across New England, Canada, and Europe  
  • Adventure in Nature : Travelers booking trips to Antarctica, Africa, and South Pacific  

  Travel Agent Survey  

A recent survey of AAA travel agents highlights topics travelers are frequently discussing when booking trips:  

  • Travel Insurance : 51 % of agents say more travelers are interested in protecting their trips  
  • 77% of agents say ocean cruises  
  • 70% of agents say all-inclusive vacations  
  • 67% of agents say river cruises  

Holiday Travel Forecast Methodology   

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of April 15, 2024.   

*Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Memorial Day holiday travel period is defined as the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27, 2024.   

AAA Travel Agent Survey Methodology 

AAA clubs distributed surveys to a random sample of their travel agents between March 18 and March 29, 2024 to understand recent traveler trends over the past 60 days. 186 AAA agent responses were collected from 13 AAA clubs (representing 97% of AAA membership overall as of February 2024).  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.   

Ukraine war latest: Ukraine 'destroys Russian Black Sea minesweeper'

Ukraine's navy says it has destroyed a Russian Black Sea fleet minesweeper. Meanwhile, an attack on a residential area in Kharkiv left six civilians injured - with Ukraine saying it is investigating the bombing as a potential war crime.

Sunday 19 May 2024 11:54, UK

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  • Two killed in Russian strikes on Kherson  | Four dead in Kharkiv
  • Ukraine investigating 'potential war crime' after civilians wounded
  • Ukrainian soldiers reveal how they were secretly moved ahead of Russian invasion
  • Russia takes control of village in Kharkiv - defence ministry
  • Live reporting by  Josephine Franks

The number of people killed in Russian airstrikes in a recreation area just outside Kharkiv has risen to five, and at least 16 are injured. 

Kharkiv mayor Ihor Terekhov gave update on Telegram, saying: "The explosions heard in Kharkiv around noon occurred in a nearby suburb. 

"Two Russian missiles hit a recreation centre where people were relaxing, killing five people and injuring sixteen others." 

Yaroslav Trofimko, an inspector with the local police department, said there "never any soldiers here".

"It was a Sunday, people were supposed to be here to rest, children were supposed to he here, pregnant women, resting, enjoying a normal way of life." 

He arrived on the scene after the first blast, and was there when the second strike hit the same scene around 20 minutes later.

Ukraine has frequently accused Russia of using "double tap" strikes to kill or injure emergency workers at the scene of strike impacts. 

Kharkiv's governor Oleh Syniehubov earlier said a paramedic was among those injured. 

Russian air defences downed 103 Ukrainian drones and 12 United States-made ATACMS missiles over the past 24 hours, the Russian defence ministry said .

Russian officials earlier said that Ukraine had fired nine ATACMS at Crimea and attacked Russian regions with at least 60 drones, forcing one oil refinery in southern Russia to halt operations. 

We're getting more news from the scene of a Russian strike in a northern suburb of Kharkiv where four people were killed, as reported in our 10.30 post.  

The number of people reported injured has risen from eight to 15. 

A recreation area was destroyed, according to Reuters correspondents at the site.

Rescuers described a powerful blast, followed by a second, "double tap" strike about fifteen minutes later. 

A man's corpse lay under the rubble of what just over an hour previously was a busy lakeside restaurant area on a sunny day. 

A woman stumbled around in shock looking for her handbag in the wreckage. 

"The occupiers attacked the area where local residents were relaxing," Kharkiv's governor, Oleh Syniehubov, said on Telegram. 

In recent weeks, Kharkiv city and the region of the same name have been under constant attack by Russian missiles and guided bombs as Russian troops have launched an offensive in the northeast of the region. 

Ukraine fired long-range missiles at Crimea and attacked Russia  with at least 60 drones in a major attack last night.

Meanwhile Ukraine says it destroyed more than 30 Russian drones.

Russian air defences shot down 57 Ukrainian drones over its southern Krasnodar region, the country's defence ministry said. 

As we reported in our 8.26 post, an oil refinery hit by debris had to halt operations, with local military officials saying there was no fire or damage. 

Local news outlet Astra published videos appearing to show an explosion at the refinery as it was hit by a drone. The videos could not be independently verified. 

Nine long-range ballistic missiles and a drone were destroyed over the Russia-occupied Crimean Peninsula following Friday morning’s massive Ukrainian drone attack that cut off power in the city of Sevastopol. 

The Russian-installed governor of Ukraine's partially occupied Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo, said one person died and 16 were wounded when a Ukrainian drone hit a minibus on Sunday morning.

In Ukraine, air force officials said air defence shot down all 37 Russian drones launched against the country overnight (more in our 7.20 post). 

Four people have been killed and at least eight more injured in a Russian airstrike on Kharkiv, Ukrainian officials say. 

Kharkiv's governor Oleh Syniehubov said the strike hit the residential area of Malodanyliv.

A paramedic was among those injured, he said on Telegram. 

Kharkiv has been the target of frequent airstrikes since Russia began its new offensive on the northeastern region late last week. 

Residential buildings have been destroyed and Ukraine has accused Russia of targeting civilians, saying it is investigating this as a "potential war crime". 

Governor Oleh Syniehubov said this morning that one person died and 11 were wounded as a result of shelling on Saturday. 

Here are some of the latest pictures from the city...

Ukrainian forces have destroyed Russian Black Sea fleet minesweeper, a statement from the Ukrainian navy said.

"Last night the Ukrainian Defence Forces destroyed the Russian Black Sea Fleet's Project 266-M Kovrovets minesweeper," it said on Telegram.

As Russia’s new invasion of northern Ukraine ticks into its second week, Trevor Philips asks Defence Secretary Grant Shapps if we are creating a stalemate in the war with Russia.

It comes after Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this week: "We are in a nonsense situation where the West is afraid that Russia will lose the war. And it does not want Ukraine to lose it."

Grant Shapps says he went to Ukraine earlier this year and made the point that "by delaying what we should be doing - and in fact now have, through particularly what [the US] Congress has done - we are running the risk of doing exactly what President Zelensky is concerned about".

He goes on: "I think this is completely nonsensical for the West. We have to understand we are in an existential battle about the way we run the world order and about democracy itself."

He accuses autocratic countries of trying to "impose" their systems on "free and democratic countries", declaring: "We have to stand up to that."

Speaking on Sunday Morning with Trevor Philips, Grant Shapps says the delay in giving aid to Ukraine gave Russia a window of opportunity for its new offensive. 

"It is [a] fact that the delay in sending additional aid [to Ukraine] - and here, obviously, the United States Congress was slow on this - had left a hiatus in which, for example, Putin has moved into, or tried to move into Kharkiv."

He says he is "confident" Ukraine will be able to repel the attack, but says there are a "few difficult weeks ahead".

"But that didn't need to happen," he adds.

Mr Shapps also says "Europeans have to step up as well", calling for other European countries to commit to spending 2.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, which the government has said it will do by 2030.

He would not be drawn on whether the UK should change its rules to allow weapons provided by the UK to be used in Russian territory. 

Mr Shapps instead called for Germany and other countries to allow the weapons they provide to be used in Crimea, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. 

Six drones crashed on the site of an oil refinery in Slavyansk in Russia's southern Krasnodar region during an overnight attack by Ukraine, according to the Interfax news agency.

The Russian defence ministry said Russian forces shot down nine US long-range missiles over Crimea and at least 60 drones over Russian sovereign territory. 

Interfax said the refinery halted work after the attack.

There were no fires at the refinery, state-run TASS news agency reported, citing local authorities. 

Russia has reported an uptick in Ukrainian attacks on its territory since opening a new front in the Kharkiv region earlier this month.

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