Whether you are looking to commute to work to save on gas money, or finding transportation for a cross-country trip, taking the bus is a decision that makes excellent financial and environmental sense. With a little patience and some searching, you can find cheap and discounted bus tickets.
Use your student ID. If you are a student with a valid photo student ID, many bus companies will offer you free or deeply discounted fares. Always ask about student rates when looking for cheap bus tickets.
Whenever possible, purchase tickets in advance and online. Most larger bus companies offer discounted fares for purchasing ahead of time via their websites.
Consider taking a "Chinatown" bus, such as Fung Wah or LuckyStar. You can't reserve seats, but with ticket prices ranging from $1 to $15 on some long-distance trips (such as between New York City and Boston or New York City and Baltimore), they are a underrated travel option. You are likely to meet some colorful characters, which will make for a great story to tell your friends.
Purchase your bus tickets from a discount bus website, such as busjunction.com, megabus.com, or boltbus.com. Many fares on these websites will start at $1, and you will get the lowest price the more in advance you purchase your tickets.
Ask if you qualify for reduced rates if you ride the same route multiple times a week. Commuter bus passes are available for reduced rates in some metropolitan areas.
