Last updated on December 13, 2015
If you’ve never been to America before then you may be pleased to learn that you’re in for a real treat however, if you’re planning on visiting any one of the country’s 50 states choosing which one may well be one of the hardest decisions that you have to make.
The USA is obviously huge so getting around can sometimes be a real ordeal if you’re planning on moving from one state or city to the next.
Below is a short guide to transport options whilst travelling around America and if you’ve got ideals on completing a few classic road trips then read on and find out whether it may just be more convenient to fly or let the train take the strain.
Jump on the good old Greyhound
There are Greyhound bus stations all across America and although the original business operated solely out of Texas these days you’ll find over 120 routes incorporating almost 4000 locations in North America and Mexico. With almost 2500 stations to choose from taking the Greyhound is an extremely accessible option and tickets can be bought online or within the coach terminal. Relatively inexpensive, kind of nostalgic and a must if you have time to spare and want to see the world pass by your window.
Let the train take the strain
Amtrak is the best means of travelling across America by train and if you’re looking for the next step up from the good old Greyhound then this is a faster and more comfortable option with plenty of chances to stretch your legs en-route. Criss-crossing all but 4 of the USA’s 50 states, Amtrak incorporates more than 500 locations and should definitely be considered if you’re wishing to find a more eco-friendly alternative to flying. Can be slightly costly but if you buy tickets in advance and don’t mind when you travel then this is an ideal option.
Have you seen The Hitcher?
Sticking out your thumb on the side of the freeway may seem like a ludicrous thing to do, especially if you’re travelling with kids and let’s face it, you’d be quite right to assume that this is the case. Of course, hitch hiking isn’t for everyone and is probably one of the most dangerous forms of travel known to man but needs must and if you’re short on cash and have plenty of patience then get yourself a backpack and a strong thumb and start smiling. Best advice is to hitch hike in pairs, always carry a destination sign and try to look as presentable as possible – good luck y’all!
Hired gun
If the thought of hitch hiking fills you with dread when working out how to travel across the USA then perhaps hiring a car would be a more suitable option. There are plenty of outlets in all major cities that allow you to pick up in one spot and drop off in another which is the ideal way to cross the country and not have to worry about how you’re going to get back to base. You can also sign up to a scheme, known as Driveaway, which looks for couriers to take cars from A to B. To get involved you’ll need to be over 23, carry a driving licence, passport and deposit – sounds good!
Come fly with me
If you have to be somewhere in a hurry and you’re hoping to arrive in a fairly presentable fashion then air travel is probably going to be your best mode of transport. Internal flights are available across the length and breadth of the US and from west coast to east coast, the border with Canada to the border with Mexico, American Airlines are probably going to be your best bet. If you don’t mind when you fly and you can book up way in advance then you’ll probably find the cheaper options however, if you’ve got cash to spare and just want to see as much of the country as possible in a short space of time then flying has to be the answer to your very own American dream holiday.
Chris is currently researching camper van hire on the west coast of America with thoughts of Californian campsites and hazy beach views across the split screen window.
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