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The holidays are all about being home, but skyrocketing airfare prices can make flying expensive and stressful. Fortunately, bus and train travel offers a budget-friendly alternative to getting home without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re after cheap train tickets or prefer bus travel, this guide will help you save money and make your journey stress-free.
Why Bus and Train Travel?
Bus and train travel can be surprisingly affordable, convenient, and scenic. You don’t have to worry about airport security and steep baggage fees. Plus, the savings can leave more cash for gifts for your friends and family (or travel snacks!).
But here’s the catch: everyone else is looking for cheap places to travel during the holidays too, so planning is key. Let’s dive into how you can snag the best deals and make your journey merry and bright.
1. Book Early (Seriously, Do It Now)
Prices for buses and trains rise the closer you get to Christmas or New Year’s Eve, so don’t hold off on booking your holiday travel plans!
We recommend booking bus and train tickets five to six weeks in advance to score the best deal, but even buying tickets a week or two out will save you some cash. Since the holiday season is such a popular time to travel, book ASAP to make sure you can score some cheap tickets!
2. Compare Prices Online
If you weren’t able to book your ticket ahead of time, you can still cut costs by doing a little research. To really maximize your savings, make sure you compare ticket prices.
Wanderu lets you search bus and train routes across North America and Europe from over 500 providers, making it an ideal choice for booking your holiday travel plans. This way you can compare your options side-by-side to ensure you snag the cheapest ticket.
3. Look Out for Promotions
Don’t miss out on special promotions and deals.
Follow Wanderu on TikTok to stay up to date on our latest travel deals.
4. Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Fees
Most bus and train carriers let travelers bring a free carry-on and at least one checked bag (sometimes even more), but double-check the rules to avoid any extra fees. Stick to lightweight, compact luggage to keep things manageable.
Need to bring gifts? Consider shipping them instead of bringing them with you—it’s often cheaper and easier.
5. Stay Flexible with Routes
Direct routes are convenient but can cost more. Consider taking a layover to save money. For example, if you’re traveling from Chicago to New York, a route that stops in Cleveland might be cheaper than going direct.
Similarly, check stations in nearby cities. Traveling from Oakland instead of San Francisco or Newark instead of NYC might provide cheaper fares.
Overnight buses and trains are another budget-friendly option. They’re usually less expensive, and you save on accommodation by sleeping on board.
6. Bring Your Own Snacks and Entertainment
Holiday travel can add up even without overpaying for food and entertainment. Pack your own food and drinks to save money and avoid long lines at station cafes.
Download movies, music, or e-books for entertainment. Wi-Fi on buses and trains can be spotty, so it’s better to prepare some offline options ahead of time.
7. Consider Regional Bus Lines
You’re likely familiar with bus carriers like Greyhound, but don’t forget about regional providers. For example:
- Peter Pan: Serves the Northeast with competitive pricing.
- Jefferson Lines: Connects Midwest cities with affordable options.
Regional lines often have fewer crowds and cheaper fares.
8. Budget-Friendly Holiday Destinations
If you’re not heading home but still want to get away for the holidays, consider cheap places to travel with bus or train access. Here are some affordable destinations:
- New Orleans, LA: Amtrak’s Crescent line connects major East Coast cities to the Big Easy.
- Philadelphia, PA: Peter Pan and Amtrak offer cheap tickets to this historic city.
- Santa Fe, NM: Ride the Southwest Chief for stunning winter views and artsy charm.
Final Thoughts
Traveling home for the holidays doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning and these budget-friendly travel tips, you can find cheap bus tickets and train tickets to make your journey comfortable and affordable. Book early, stay flexible, and embrace the slower pace of bus and train travel!
