By Shawn Gallagher
If you’re looking to ride an intercity coach bus, FlixBus probably came up as one of the options. FlixBus is a Europe based bus company that began operating in the United States in 2018. They have a large network and also bought Greyhound recently, expanding their sphere of influence in the coach bus industry. In this post, I’ll be going over what a typical ride on FlixBus is like.
I recently made a post going over the various methods of transportation between New York City and Boston. In it, I discussed travel by Amtrak, plane, and intercity buses. Read those posts if you’re looking to learn more about travel between these two cities as well.
Now, onto FlixBus!
Booking
FlixBus is cheap for the most part. It’s a great option for last minute ticket purchases which may be harder on Amtrak or airlines. However, this may be a bit more difficult for weekends and holidays, as those dates tend to get busy.
Still, I’ve managed to snag fares in the $30s within 2 days of departure many times.
Some FlixBuses also have reserved seating. These are sometimes enforced, but not all the time. However, it still gives you the power to say “Sorry, I reserved this seat” to someone who didn’t reserve one. They’re usually an extra $5-$7.
Once you buy a ticket, you’ll get a QR code which you can add to your Apple Wallet. You’ll show this code to the driver upon boarding. I recommend getting the FlixBus app, as this makes it easier.
Boarding
FlixBus boards from traditional bus terminals in most cities, but some stops are different, so it’s important to pay attention. Here in New York City, FlixBus boards from this lot on 8th and 31st (across from Penn Station).
It can be confusing to figure out which bus is yours. There’s always one or two FlixBus employees in the lot announcing which bus is which. It’s easiest just to ask them. Say, “Which one is the 1:15 to Boston?”
As I mentioned, show your ticket to the driver when you board.
Inside The Bus
FlixBus runs a variety of bus types, so each ride is a little different. However, the basics are pretty consistent across their fleet.
For example, this is what my most recent ride was like. Like this one, all FlixBuses I’ve taken have at least been in decent shape.
The seats were cloth and weren’t that hard, and has recline.
Pretty much all FlixBuses have this footrest. I actually find this useful and comfortable, but it can also get in the way of stretching my legs under the seat in front of me.
This bus had outlets. Almost all buses I’ve rode on I believe have had outlets, but they don’t always work. I’d say you have a 70% chance that you’ll have a functioning outlet, so be prepared with a portable battery pack.
This is not a FlixBus-only problem; you’ll come across this issue on other coach bus lines. It’s best to be prepared.
The same goes for Wi-Fi. It works most of the time, but I’ve previously had one FlixBus ride with nonfunctional Wi-Fi. The speed is good when it works though. I use it for my MacBook.
The overhead luggage bins usually only have space for smaller backpacks/bags. I always have my backpack by my feet (or the seat next to me if there’s nobody there) and my carry-on suitcase in the cargo section, if I bring one.
There are overhead lights and personal AC vents. Sorry the picture is dark.
Ride To Boston
The bus left New York City on time. We weaved through the Manhattan streets and then hopped on the highway.
All FlixBus rides I’ve taken have left on time. This is helped by the fact that I only take buses on major routes such as this New York to Boston ride. These big terminal stops usually won’t experience many delays on departure. Because of this, I can’t say the same for more remote/local bus stops.
The biggest weakness of intercity buses is their susceptibility to traffic. Traffic is unpredictable a lot of the time, and although bus drivers will try to avoid traffic and find the fastest way possible, it’s always part of any trip.
I’ve had trips where I arrived in New York City a half hour early, and I’ve also had times where I arrived a full hour late. It’s really unpredictable.
Buses sometimes take breaks, but I believe it depends on and is up to the driver. I would be prepared for no breaks if you’re traveling between New York and Boston.
Arriving In Boston
We were stuck in a lot of traffic throughout Connecticut, so we arrived 20 minutes late to Boston. I always thank the driver when leaving.
FlixBus operates out of the South Station bus terminal in Boston.
Concluding Thoughts
I get it, intercity coach buses can be uncomfortable. I frequently travel between New York and Boston, and I’ve taken everything from First Class on an airplane to the cheapest coach bus I could find. At the end of the day, all of these transportation options have one goal: getting you to your final destination.
I’ve taken FlixBus many times without any major problems. Sure, I try to book Amtrak if I can, but I also never hesitate to book them when I have to. Intercity buses are uncomfortable by nature, and there’s no denying that. There’s no reason to expect first class service, but knowing what to expect and being prepared can make the ride more comforting.
Bringing a portable battery pack, a lot of water to stay hydrated, and entertainment to pass the time will all help. If you’re considering FlixBus for your next trip, don’t hesitate. It’s not that bad.
All photos taken by the author. Screenshots from Flixbus.com.