Traveling between cities by bus or train can be one of the most affordable ways to get around—if you know where to look. While many riders rely on standard booking sites or pay at the terminal, there are smarter strategies for cutting costs. From online platforms to cashback portals, here’s how to find legitimate discounts on regional transit options and save on your next trip.
Use comparison platforms for deals
Websites like Wanderu and Busbud are designed to help travelers compare prices across bus and train operators. These platforms pull real-time prices from carriers like Greyhound, Amtrak, FlixBus, and Megabus, helping you choose the cheapest and fastest option available.
Both sites often include access to promo codes or flash discounts, especially if you’re booking a few days in advance or during non-peak times.
Check for student and military discounts
Many regional transit providers offer discounts to students, seniors, and members of the military. For example, Amtrak provides a 10% student discount with a valid student ID and also offers discounts for active-duty military personnel. FlixBus and Greyhound have similar programs.
Always read the terms and conditions to ensure your ticket is eligible, and carry ID during travel.
Sign up for transit loyalty programs
Joining a loyalty program can unlock member-exclusive deals and early access to promotions. For example:
- Amtrak Guest Rewards offers points for every ride, which can be redeemed for free trips or upgrades.
- Greyhound’s Road Rewards program (previously offered) may return in updated form—check the Greyhound site for current offerings.
Use cashback apps and portals
Before booking your ticket, check if your transit provider is listed on cashback apps like Rakuten or Ibotta. These platforms sometimes offer 2%–5% cashback for tickets purchased through linked retailers or booking engines.
You can also combine this with a rewards credit card to earn points or miles in addition to your cashback.
Stack savings with gift cards
For rideshare services or connecting travel, buying a discounted gift card ahead of time can trim your costs even further. For example, you can earn cashback with a Lyft gift card or get rewards with an Uber gift card through Fluz and use that to get to or from your departure point.
While many intercity bus and train operators don’t yet accept gift cards directly, connecting services like Uber, Lyft, and some fuel stations do—making it an ideal way to reduce your total travel spend.
Final tip: book early and off-peak
The best discounts usually appear when you book early or travel at non-peak times—think midweek mornings or late evenings. Use the “flexible date” options on Wanderu and Busbud to compare fares a few days before and after your intended travel date.
