Travel Bus Buying Guide: 8 Essential Tips

If you're looking to buy a travel bus, there are a few things you'll need to consider. Firstly, you'll need to decide whether you want to buy a new or used bus. There are pros and cons to both options, and it will depend on your budget and specific needs. You can find buses for sale online on websites such as eBay, BusesForSale.com, and Northwest Bus Sales, or you could try finding a local dealer. When looking to purchase a bus, it's important to consider the size and capacity of the vehicle, as well as any additional features you may require, such as wheelchair accessibility, air conditioning, or extra luggage space.

New vs. used travel buses

When it comes to purchasing a travel bus, you have the option of buying a new or used vehicle. There are advantages and considerations for each choice, depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Here is a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision:

New Travel Buses

New travel buses offer the latest features and amenities, providing an enhanced experience for both passengers and drivers. Modern buses are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, boasting spacious interiors, comfortable seating, and additional legroom. Some newer models may also offer entertainment systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, and onboard restrooms, making long journeys more enjoyable. Additionally, new buses are likely to have lower maintenance costs due to their modern technology and systems, reducing the need for frequent repairs.

However, it is important to consider the higher upfront cost of new buses. They typically carry a larger price tag than used buses, and this initial investment can be a significant factor in your decision-making process.

Used Travel Buses

Used travel buses provide a more cost-effective option, allowing you to save money on your purchase. The price of a used bus depends on factors such as its condition, age, mileage, and previous ownership. While you may find older models with higher mileage, there are also well-maintained used buses with many years of service left. When buying a used bus, it is crucial to carefully inspect the vehicle, review its maintenance history, and consider any necessary repairs or refurbishments.

Another advantage of used buses is their immediate availability. When you purchase a used bus, you can often take ownership and put it into service right away, without waiting for production or delivery lead times associated with new buses.

In conclusion, the decision between buying a new or used travel bus depends on your budget, desired features, and the condition of the bus. New buses offer modern amenities and lower maintenance costs, but they come with a higher upfront cost. Used buses provide a more affordable option, immediate availability, and the potential for finding well-maintained vehicles with plenty of useful life remaining. Carefully consider your specific requirements, research reliable dealers, and don't hesitate to seek expert advice to make the choice that best suits your travel needs.

Travel bus features and amenities

When it comes to travel bus features and amenities, there are several options to consider. The specific features you opt for will depend on the length of your journey, the level of comfort you desire, and your budget. Here are some of the key features and amenities to think about:

Seating

Comfortable seating is a top priority for many travellers. Look for seats with ample legroom, reclining capabilities, and even calf support on longer journeys. Some buses offer extra space between rows, providing a more spacious and relaxed environment. If you're travelling with a group, you may also want to consider a bus with a mix of seating options, such as forward-facing and booth-style seats.

Sleep Accommodations

If you're planning overnight journeys, sleeper buses offer sleeping berths and reclining seats, allowing you to rest comfortably. Sleeper buses typically feature both upper and lower berths, with the lower berths providing more headroom and the upper berths offering more privacy. Semi-sleeper buses are another option, designed to help prevent leg swelling during night travel while balancing comfort and affordability.

Onboard Amenities

Amenities such as toilets, air conditioning, power outlets, and WiFi can make a significant difference in the comfort of your journey. Toilets are especially important for longer trips, and some buses offer full-service lavatories. Power outlets and WiFi can be crucial if you need to stay connected and entertained during your trip. Additionally, some buses provide refreshments, including free snacks, drinks, and even beer and wine.

Entertainment

For added entertainment, some buses offer TV monitors connected to DVD players or VCRs, or even local TV stations. This can be especially useful for groups with children or for longer journeys where passengers may appreciate a variety of entertainment options.

Storage

Consider the amount of luggage you'll be bringing and choose a bus with adequate storage space. Most buses offer overhead hand-luggage racks and a luggage compartment or bins in the underbelly of the bus. If you're travelling with a large group, ensure the bus has sufficient space for everyone's belongings.

Special Features

Depending on your specific needs, you may want to look for buses with additional features. For example, buses with tinted windows, curtains, or blinds can provide privacy and protect against direct sunlight. If you're travelling with elderly or infirm individuals, look for buses with wheelchair lifts or ramps and "kneeling suspension" for easier access.

Travel bus companies and dealers

There are many travel bus companies and dealers in the US. The biggest and most well-known is Greyhound, which serves nearly 2,300 destinations in the US, Canada, and Mexico (or 3,800, according to another source). It is known for its vast coverage and iconic logo. Greyhound was acquired in 2021 by Flix SE, a global mobility provider, and continues to run normally across North America.

Other major bus companies in the US include:

• Flixbus: This company has over 400,000 routes worldwide and serves over 2,300 cities in North America when combined with Greyhound.
• Megabus: This company is known for its low-cost trips, with tickets sometimes available for as little as $1 when booking in advance. It serves hundreds of destinations in the US, particularly in the Northeast and Florida.
• BoltBus: This company operates at low-cost, non-stop, and limited-stop routes in the Northeast and Western US, as well as British Columbia, Canada. It is owned by Greyhound Lines and sells $1 tickets at random within the first few seats sold.
• Lux Bus America: This company offers exclusive coach travel to Las Vegas for around $50. It was founded in 2003 and offers a range of tour and transportation services.
• Vamoose: This is a privately-owned intercity bus line based in New York City. It provides daily transportation between New York and suburban cities in the Washington, D.C. metro area, with tickets starting at $20.
• RedCoach: This company provides premium bus rides in major destinations in Florida and Texas. It offers three different classes, with standard tickets refundable with a 30% service fee.
• Jefferson Lines: A regional intercity bus provider founded in 1919, Jefferson Lines serves 13 states in the heart of the US, from North Dakota to Texas.
• Peter Pan: One of the largest privately-owned motorcoach companies in the US, Peter Pan was introduced in 1940. It covers larger cities on the East Coast between New Hampshire and Washington, D.C. and serves 100+ communities in the Northeast corridor.
• Adirondack Trailways: This company is known for its popular Montreal-NYC route and its customer service. It covers 49 cities, with routes between rural areas and major cities in New York state and Canada.
• Northwest Bus Sales: This company sells both new and used buses from trusted manufacturers. It is based in the Northwest and can ship buses to any part of the US, as well as to clients in Mexico and Canada.

These are just a few examples of the many travel bus companies and dealers operating in the US. Each company offers unique features, amenities, and routes, so it's important to research and compare different options before making a purchase or booking a trip.

Travel bus ticket booking platforms

There are several online platforms that allow you to book travel bus tickets. These platforms offer a range of features, including the ability to compare prices, departure and arrival times, pick-up and drop-off points, and travel durations. Some of the popular travel bus ticket booking platforms include:

• Goibibo: Goibibo is one of India's biggest and most trusted bus booking platforms. It offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy for travellers to book their bus tickets online. Goibibo provides information on bus routes, stoppages, dropping and boarding points, and even an itinerary of places to visit. It also offers a range of payment options and exciting discounts.
• EaseMyTrip: EaseMyTrip is a platform that offers bus ticket bookings for luxury and budgeted buses, including sleeper, AC/Non-AC, Volvo, semi-sleeper, and room buses. It has a simple user interface, making it convenient for travellers to book bus tickets within a few clicks. EaseMyTrip has partnered with over 3999 bus operators, providing a wide range of options for travellers.
• FlixBus: FlixBus offers an extensive network of bus routes, with over 400,000 routes across the globe. It provides modern and comfortable buses, frequent connections, and reliable schedules. FlixBus also offers free WiFi on most buses and a user-friendly app for easy booking.
• CheckMyBus: CheckMyBus allows travellers to find offers from thousands of bus companies and millions of bus routes worldwide. It provides a simple search engine that optimizes results based on price, departure and arrival times, and pick-up and drop-off points. CheckMyBus also offers a mobile app for iOS and Android, making it convenient for travellers to find the best bus deals on their smartphones.
• MakeMyTrip: MakeMyTrip is an online platform that offers bus ticket booking services, allowing travellers to manage their bookings and reservations easily.

These platforms provide travellers with convenient and secure options for booking travel bus tickets, offering various features and discounts to enhance their journey experience.

Eco-friendly travel bus options

If you're looking to buy a travel bus with eco-friendly credentials, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to understand the environmental impact of different modes of transportation. The carbon footprint, or the amount of greenhouse gas emissions, is a significant factor when choosing a vehicle.

Buses are a highly environmentally-friendly mode of transport. They produce far fewer emissions than cars, trains, and airplanes, especially when you consider the number of passengers they can carry. An average intercity bus can carry up to 55 people, whereas cars typically carry only one or two passengers. So, a single bus can take up to 55 cars off the road, significantly reducing traffic and emissions.

When it comes to purchasing an eco-friendly travel bus, you can explore new or used options. Companies like Northwest Bus Sales offer a range of coach buses with different passenger capacities, amenities, and features. These buses can be an excellent option for organisations that frequently travel with large groups, such as schools, churches, or sports teams.

Some key considerations when buying an eco-friendly travel bus include:

• Passenger capacity: Ensure the bus can accommodate your expected passenger numbers.
• Amenities: Look for features like restrooms, air conditioning, wheelchair lifts, WiFi, extra legroom, and power outlets.
• Fuel efficiency: Opt for buses with high fuel efficiency to minimise carbon emissions.
• Alternative fuel technologies: Consider buses that utilise alternative drive and fuel technologies, such as electric or hybrid options.
• Carbon offset programs: Some bus companies offer carbon offset programs, allowing passengers to offset their carbon emissions when purchasing tickets.

Additionally, you can also explore charter bus rentals, which provide sustainable options for corporate events, school outings, and other group travel needs. Companies like Bus.com offer sustainable charter bus rentals, helping you reduce your environmental impact.

By considering the environmental impact, passenger capacity, amenities, and fuel efficiency, you can make an informed decision when purchasing an eco-friendly travel bus.

Frequently asked questions