Visit the bus station for schedules and prices. Ask a concierge or cab driver where the major bus terminal is and then make a visit a day or two before you want to travel. This is a good time to purchase your ticket and check fares and schedules. Buses run frequently, so you should have some good choices for times.
Pay for first class. The first-class buses are a must if you are planning on a long trip. They have deeply reclining seats, air conditioning, bathroom, and movies that are often in English with Spanish subtitles. It costs a little more, but you can be assured that there won't be any chickens on the bus!
Bring snacks, water and comfort items. Buses don't stop often on long trips and eating and drinking is allowed. Pack lunches, snacks and plenty of water or soft drinks for your trip. The air conditioning can be high, so you will probably want a blanket and perhaps a travel pillow to make your trip more comfortable. If you don't want to hear the movie, bring noise-canceling headphones to block out the noise of the TV, your seat mate and traffic.
Watch your personal belongings. Crime is infrequent, but it does happen. If you plan on napping, place your personal items to your side or at your feet where they cannot easily be taken without waking you up.
Heed travel warnings. Check the U.S. Travel Department website for travel warnings for Mexico. Most areas in Mexico are very safe, but there are some regions, mainly to the south, that are plagued by robberies and bandits.
