Dreams of summer escapades to the big cities of America are easily quashed with one look at the price of an average plane ticket. And the outlook is just as bleak when considering the drive. Gas prices just aren’t what they used to be-as in they’re much higher.
Before Boarding
Tips for a better bus ride¦ Arrive early to get a good seat. Some Megabus coaches are double-deckers, which offer prime real estate with either a great view, extra leg room, a table or everything above.¦ Pack light. Each passenger is allowed to bring one piece of luggage for the cargo hold and one carry-on bag that can fit either under the seat or in the overhead compartment. If you need to carry more, you will have to buy a second ticket.
So, many travelers are rediscovering their way by bus. According to megabus.com, the bussing company has wheeled more than 30 million people from destination to destination in America and Canada since launching in 2006.
OK, so travel by bus isn’t exactly glamorous. Affordable is what it is. I’ve heard tell of bus tickets from Lexington, Kentucky, to the great city of Chicago for as little as $8. Shall we compare that same trip via plane? Let’s. If I were to book a oneway flight out of Lexington next week, it would cost $266 to fly to Chicago.
Not convinced? The cost to drive that distance would be about $60. It’s not bad until you consider the wear and tear the trip would do to my little Ford Focus. Plus, a ride on the bus presents other perks. Instead of dutifully watching the road for 10-plus hours, you can kick back and enjoy Megabus’ free wifi, play a card game with friends who come along for the ride or read a good book.