Frequently Asked Questions about the Bus (FAQ)

As you may know, there are fewer luggage limitations for buses. Amenities, such as Wi-Fi, reclining seats or extra space for legroom make the bus a comfortable travel option.

Undoubtedly, many of the frequently asked questions from CheckMyBus travelers are related to tickets, travel conditions and discounts on buses in the USA.

Within each of the following topics you will find a list with the most frequently asked questions by bus travelers.

1. How can I find bus tickets with CheckMyBus?

CheckMyBus is an online bus search engine that shows you the best deals for your trip with a single click.

We also show you the departure and arrival station as well as the route and changes (if any). We even show you a map where you can easily locate your bus.

Once you have found the best deal for your trip, just click on View Deal.

From there, you will be redirected to our partner’s page where you will buy your tickets.

*Another frequently asked question from our travelers is whether to book the ticket far in advance.

Our advice is to book as soon as possible to take advantage of discounts and promotions of different companies.

2. Do I purchase the ticket directly on CheckMyBus?

No. CheckMyBus is just a price comparison site where we show you the best deals and bus routes.

The purchase of your ticket must be done directly on the website of our partner. CheckMyBus also does not operate any type of bus line.

3. How can I pay for a bus ticket online?

The type of online payment available will depend on the bus company you are traveling with.

Normally, payment methods, such as credit or debit cards, are accepted by all companies. There are also other payment options, such as PayPal or American Express.

Due to COVID-19, many intercity bus-lines have updated their payment systems.

Therefore, we recommend you visit our company pages where you can find the online payment methods accepted by each company.

4. Can I make changes to my ticket?

Most bus companies allow you to make changes to the date and time of your tickets.

Generally, bus companies offer changes up to two hours before departure.

In case you make a last-minute change, you’ll likely need to pay an added fee to update your booking.

5. How do I cancel a ticket?

One of the most frequent questions customers ask is how to cancel their bus ticket.

To cancel your tickets, you must contact your bus operator through the company’s website or call their telephone number.

As an alternative, we recommend trying different social media channels (i.e. Facebook or Instagram) to request a refund.

Note: Ticket cancellation cannot be done with CheckMyBus. You will have to contact the bus company directly.

1. How much luggage can I take on the bus?

In general, storing suitcases up to a maximum of 50 pounds is free of charge.

On the other hand, if you exceed the limit, it is possible that the bus company will still allow you to store your luggage for an extra fee.

Hand luggage must be stored in the overhead compartment and should not be registered as having dangerous goods.

2. Can bicycles, surfboards and skis be transported?

Bringing bicycles, surfboards and skis typically costs an added fee.

Regarding sports equipment, it must be properly packaged so as not to damage the luggage of other travelers.

For international trips, this type of luggage is not usually accepted (consult the company for more information).

3. What do I  do if my luggage is lost or damaged?

As soon as you arrive at your destination, we recommend that you fill a lost luggage form.

If the bus company does not have one, you can also contact them directly through a support form, email, telephone or social media channels.

*Important* Do not forget to have your ticket at hand or the billing receipt if applicable.

4. How can I bring my pet on the bus?

For most bus companies, the transport of pets is prohibited with the exception of guide dogs, in the cabin where passengers travel.

If you travel on a domestic route, animals may be allowed to travel below the cabin as long as they’re in an approved carrier.

Only one animal is allowed per coach and normally an extra fee must be paid. On international routes, it is typically forbidden to travel with animals.

1. Where does my bus leave from and how do I find my stop?

When you search for your route with CheckMyBus, our search engine will show you both the stops and stations of your trip, as well as the bus company.

After finding the connection you want, on the left you can customize your search by selecting the arrival and departure dates, company, price, and we will also show you if the bus is direct or has changes.

2. How early do I have to be to catch the bus?

In general, as long as you already have the ticket and you know where the stop or station is, it is usually enough to be there 10 – 15 minutes in advance. However, there are some special cases, such as international trips, where bus companies recommend showing up at the station 20 – 30 minutes before the bus departs.

1. What kind of discounts are available for students?

Among the different topics and frequently asked questions from our travelers, one of the most popular is above all related to discounts.

Discounts for students and/or youth vary completely from company to company. Some companies offer discounts for certain routes.

Due to the large number of offers, it is best to check with the company before buying tickets.

2. Are there offers for senior citizens?

As in the case of students, discounts for seniors also depend on the bus company.

Likewise, we recommend that you check the company and its promotions before buying the bus ticket.

3. Are there special rates for groups?

In many of the companies you can find special rates for groups that usually have up to 30% discount on the normal price of tickets.

However, if you plan to travel in larger groups of between 20 and 30 people, we recommend renting a bus directly.

Not only in terms of price, but rental buses offer many other services and benefits compared to regular bus lines.

*CheckMyBus Tip* You can find more info on the bus deals and discounts page.

1. Can minors travel without an adult?

Children under 4 years of age may not travel without the company of an adult on national routes.

There are, however, some companies that offer the possibility that the minor can travel with the authorization of a legal guardian.

Therefore, we recommend you contact the company directly to confirm this information. For international travel, passengers generally cannot travel alone until they are 16 years old.

2. How can you travel with a baby on the bus?

In this sense, there is no longer a general regulation for small children or babies on buses.

Many companies offer advice and recommendations when taveling with babies on the bus.

Since there are no legal regulations about the transport of small children or babies on buses, companies usually only offer advice and recommendations.

Different companies usually do not have baby seats or only provide one or two units per bus. So, it is advisable to travel with some type of seating where the baby can go as comfortable and safe as possible.

3. Can I ride the bus with my wheelchair?

Although many of the buses are adapted for people with mobility limitations, it is necessary to contact the company to check and confirm if they have such vehicles equipped with a lifting platform and seat anchors for the selected route.

Each company will provide more information through its telephone service or website.

1. What services and benefits do the buses offer?

Despite their differences, all bus companies have something in common and that is that they seek to offer the greatest possible comfort on board. In most buses today, we find air conditioning, individual reading lamps and comfortable reclining seats.

The individual headphone jacks on each seat and television screens are present in many services, and allow you to watch movies or listen to the radio while traveling.

Free internet connection via Wi-Fi is something that, while not yet integrated in all vehicles, will not take long to arrive.

Many companies already have free Wi-Fi in a large number of services. Another great innovation is the implementation of individual plugs in each seat.

More and more companies offer special services that, due to a surcharge on the ticket price, offer greater benefits on board. For example catering, toilets, seats with extra leg room, and even multimedia centers in each seat.