Are you eyeing a budget-friendly journey through Europe or the USA? Then this comprehensive review of Flixbus is a must-read. Promising to shuttle you across both continents for less, but does it live up to the hype?
Let’s delve deeper, scouring through numerous Flixbus reviews to paint a clearer picture. Within this guide, we’ll unravel all the crucial details you need to know.
We’ll dissect the pros, the cons, and assess whether it’s truly worthwhile to embark on this bus adventure.
After all, budget travel often entails cheap buses and lively hostels.
And don’t forget to peruse our collection of hostel guides, featuring the top accommodations across Europe.
At Hostelgeeks, we firmly believe in Eugene Fodor’s words: “You don’t have to be rich to travel well.” And throughout this guide, we aim to demonstrate just that.
So, if you’re plotting a budget-conscious jaunt across Europe or the USA, opting for a bus from point A to point B to point C might just be your thriftiest choice aside from hitchhiking.
While it may entail longer travel times and less plush seating compared to trains or planes, the savings garnered can be allocated towards other aspects of your journey.
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What Exactly is Flixbus.com? First things first, let’s demystify Flixbus.
Flixbus stands as one of the foremost, easily identifiable, and well-established bus companies operating within Europe and the USA, providing intercity bus services. In my opinion, it stands as the premier choice for bus travel across the continent.
Their buses are typically spotless, adhering to schedules punctually. Moreover, they often offer onboard WiFi and, occasionally, a refreshment bar. Plus, their expansive network opens up a myriad of travel possibilities.
In my experience, Flixbus surpasses other bus operators. And trust me, I’ve endured some questionable rides.
Take, for instance, the journey from Phuket to Bangkok, where the bus emitted a pungent odor reminiscent of feet and, to add insult to injury, broke down for two hours on a highway. Or recall the trek down south in Turkey, with the driver blaring traditional Turkish tunes throughout the night while a fellow passenger loudly indulged in sunflower seeds behind me.
Then there was the bus advertised as a direct route from Albania to Montenegro, only to morph into an incredibly local service, making a plethora of stops before departing Tirana, needlessly prolonging the journey. Can you imagine?
Given these experiences, Flixbus undoubtedly emerges as a top-notch option amidst the realm of bus travel!
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Personal Experiences with Flixbus
Following my recount of some unforgettable dreadful bus rides, let me now share my encounters with Flixbus.
With Flixbus , I’ve encountered none of the issues I’ve faced elsewhere. Overall, my experiences with the company have been quite satisfactory.
Here’s a rundown of a couple of trips I’ve taken with Flixbus:
Paris, France to Maastricht, Netherlands
This journey was essentially a direct route to Maastricht, with a brief stop in Brussels. Fortunately, there was no need for transferring buses.
The bus was impeccably clean, including the restroom. The WiFi functioned well on my laptop, and onboard drinks and snacks were available for purchase.
Moreover, the bus departed promptly around noon.
We reached Maastricht at approximately 8 pm, just as advertised. Finding the bus station in Paris was hassle-free (I walked there from the city center), and the drop-off point in Maastricht was conveniently at the main train terminal.
Milan, Italy to Como, Italy
This was a budget-friendly 5 euro bus ride taking about an hour between Milan and Como.
To be honest, a train would have been a preferable option in this case. However, I booked this trip at short notice, and train fares had increased slightly.
If you plan ahead, a train journey between Milan and Como can be around 10 euros and offers a more comfortable experience. Italian trains are typically affordable and provide a pleasant means of travel between cities.
One noteworthy aspect was the friendliness of the bus driver.
Rushing to reach the bus station on time, unaware of its distance from the center, I encouraged the taxi driver to navigate through traffic and assist me as best as possible.
Arriving at the bus, I was greeted by the driver outside with a warm smile, amused by my time management struggles. He remained incredibly helpful and cheerful to all passengers.
On a side note, in addition to affordable travel, Italy boasts great hostels. Check out our guide.
Oslo, Norway to Malmö, Sweden
This overnight bus departed from Oslo’s main bus terminal around 8 pm, arriving in Malmö around 5 am.
Once again, everything went smoothly.
The bus wasn’t fully occupied, allowing for extra space to stretch across two seats.
However, it’s important to approach overnight bus journeys with caution. They require resilience and the ability to ignore discomfort and unpleasant surroundings, often including noise and odors.
Additionally, arriving at 5 am is an unfortunate consequence of budget travel. Nevertheless, you have to make the most of the situation. So, we settled in at a nearby coffee shop in Malmö and devised our next steps.
Overall, this Flixbus trip provided a relatively pleasant overnight bus experience, especially compared to some very unpleasant ones.
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Advantages
Let’s examine the advantages of opting for Flixbus.
Overall, the benefits of Flixbus tend to outweigh the drawbacks. Many reviews I’ve come across mention anecdotal or generalized instances of negative experiences, which could occur with any budget bus service. It’s crucial to acknowledge this and recognize that any endeavor aimed at minimizing expenses might come with certain limitations.
Cleanliness: Flixbuses generally maintain a high level of cleanliness and lack unpleasant odors, based on my personal experiences. The restrooms are well-maintained, and there are garbage bags provided along the aisles to prevent littering.
Additionally, the seats are relatively new, well-kept, and offer adequate comfort.
Reliability: Flixbus offers a consistent level of service and quality, akin to a recognizable brand. This standardization is often lacking in other bus companies. Unlike some competitors, Flixbuses typically depart punctually and arrive close to the scheduled time, accounting for factors like traffic and weather.
Easy Identification: Despite their somewhat unconventional lime green color, Flixbuses are easy to spot in crowded terminals. This distinct color facilitates quick recognition, especially when rushing through terminals.
Extensive European Network: Flixbus has an expansive presence across Europe, with numerous stops covering a wide geographic area. Their network can be viewed on the Flixbus website, making it convenient to plan routes.
Affordability: Flixbus offers competitive prices, often matching or surpassing those of other budget bus services. Additionally, they occasionally provide deals for short-distance trips within Europe. However, it’s advisable to book in advance as prices may increase closer to the travel date.
Charging Facilities: Flixbus stands out for its reliable charging ports. Unlike some buses where advertised ports may be nonexistent or dysfunctional, Flixbuses consistently provide working USB ports or outlets.
US Expansion: Flixbus has expanded its services into the United States, marking a notable presence in a landscape dominated by companies like Greyhound and Peter Pan. While currently unavailable on the East Coast, Flixbus operates on the West Coast, serving states like California, Arizona, and Nevada.
Convenient Terminals: Flixbuses depart from prominent bus terminals, which are easily accessible and offer amenities such as shops for purchasing snacks or supplies before the journey.
User-Friendly App: The Flixbus app simplifies the travel experience by providing essential information about departure locations. Moreover, it allows users to conveniently use the QR code on their mobile tickets, eliminating the need for physical ticket prints. While similar features are offered by other bus companies, the Flixbus app excels in its user-friendly interface.
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Cons
Flixbus, like anything else, isn’t flawless. Having discussed the advantages, let’s now delve into its drawbacks.
Limited Availability: Flixbus operates solely in Europe and the USA. Notably, it doesn’t provide service in the UK, so if your destination lies there, you’ll need to explore other travel options.
Long Journeys: Enduring lengthy bus rides can be tiresome and uncomfortable, a reality not spared even by Flixbus. Expect multiple stops and a longer duration compared to traveling by train.
Moderate Savings: Contrary to popular belief, Flixbus may not always offer significantly cheaper fares, especially for extensive journeys. Opting for a train ride could provide better comfort and comparable pricing.
Inconsistent WIFI: While I’ve personally had decent experiences with Flixbus WIFI, reports of its unreliability abound. Many passengers have lamented about this issue in online reviews. It’s prudent to carry alternate entertainment, like a book, just in case.
Seat Reservation Fees: While the additional cost for reserving a seat isn’t exorbitant (around 3 euros), it’s an extra expense nonetheless. Unlike some other bus operators, Flixbus charges for seat selection. For longer trips or overnight travel, reserving a seat can offer the choice between a window or an aisle seat, a decision not to be taken lightly.
Seat Availability: Even for those not opting for seat reservations, recognizing a free seat is crucial. Nobody wants to be rudely awakened in the dead of night because their chosen seat was already claimed. Look for green stickers above seats to ascertain their availability.
Booking Clarity: Some users have reported ambiguity in the email confirmations regarding the exact pickup location at bus stations. The Flixbus app tends to provide clearer instructions in this regard. To avoid mishaps, always arrive well in advance at the bus station; last-minute arrivals have a knack for attracting Murphy’s Law.
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Tips for Bus Travel
Let’s delve into some handy tips for bus travel that can help manage your expectations and ensure a smoother journey overall.
When it comes to bus travel, it’s essential to understand that luxury isn’t typically part of the package, regardless of the company you opt for. Personally, I find Flixbus to be a top choice for European bus travel.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Explore Your Options First: Before committing to a bus journey, compare prices with trains or flights, especially if time constraints or maximizing city stays are priorities.
- Direct Routes vs. Transfers: Assess whether a direct route is preferable over one with transfers, as these can entail waiting or moving between terminals, akin to flight connections. Flixbus indicates whether a trip is direct or involves transfers, but expect short stops even on direct routes.
- Know Your Departure Point: Some cities, like Paris, host multiple bus stations, and certain routes depart from different stations. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute scrambles and potential missed buses.
- Arrive Early: Bus departures can be punctual, sometimes even leaving a few minutes ahead of schedule. Arriving early mitigates the risk of missing your ride and allows for a stress-free boarding experience.
- Overnight Considerations: Overnight bus journeys aren’t for the faint-hearted. While they can save on accommodation costs and maximize daytime exploration, be prepared for potential discomfort. Pack essentials like a pillow, blanket, and sleep headphones to enhance comfort and block out disturbances. Avoid caffeine before boarding unless necessary for work.
InterFlix Pass – Bus (and Train)
Have you heard of the InterFlix Pass offered by Flixbus? For 99€, you receive five voucher codes usable across their bus and train routes, offering flexibility and cost savings.
Here’s how it works:
- Purchase the pass and receive five vouchers valid for three months.
- Redeem vouchers when booking through the website, app, or FlixShops.
- The ticket is personalized and must be used within three months of activation.
- Each voucher covers a single direct trip, and routes can be chosen freely.
Remember:
- Tickets are non-transferable.
- Plan in advance as it takes two working days to activate the codes.
- Optimize savings by using vouchers for longer, more expensive trips and booking shorter, cheaper journeys separately.
For instance:
- Genova to Paris (separately 110€)
- Paris to Milan (around 70€)
- Paris to Barcelona (around 60€)
- Genova to Milan (around 40€)
- Paris to Italy (around 70€)
By using the InterFlix Pass, you could save approximately 350€ compared to individual bookings, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious travelers. Ready to embark on your European adventure?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about Flixbus and haven’t found answers yet? Let’s address some common inquiries:
Wondering about FlixBus delays? In my personal experience, Flixbus has been reliable, often departing on time or even a few minutes early, with arrivals close to the estimated time. However, arrival times can be influenced by various factors like road conditions, traffic, and weather.
Nonetheless, it’s wise not to rely too heavily on punctuality when making connections to other modes of transport. For instance, I always ensure a minimum 3-hour gap between flights, and I extend this buffer when traveling by bus.
In the event of a delay, the FlixBus app provides real-time updates, supplemented by messages. However, this assistance isn’t helpful if you’re without internet access at the bus stop.
Concerned about the safety of your luggage on FlixBus? According to their policy, you can bring two bags:
- Hand luggage: Allowed dimensions are 42 x 18 x 30 cm with a maximum weight of 7 kg, and it stays with you in the bus cabin.
- Travel baggage: Allowed dimensions are 80 x 50 x 30 cm with a maximum weight of 20 kg, and it goes in the trunk.
While FlixBus endeavors to keep luggage secure, occasional incidents occur. There have been reports of theft from luggage in the trunk, and there are even anecdotes from South East Asia about thieves exploiting bus journeys to pilfer valuables.
To mitigate such risks, refrain from leaving important items in the trunk. Valuables like e-readers, laptops, money, and documents should always remain with you on the bus.
Is free WiFi really available on all buses? Flixbus asserts that WiFi is accessible on all their buses, although reliability may vary. While I’ve had satisfactory experiences, some reviews express dissatisfaction. Remember, bus WiFi can be limited, especially if many passengers are simultaneously using it for bandwidth-heavy activities like streaming movies.
To avoid reliance on bus WiFi, download entertainment and essential apps beforehand, ensuring a smoother journey.
Can I cancel a Flixbus booking? You can cancel or amend your booking up to 15 minutes before departure, either online or at a Flixbus travel agency. However, the cancellation policy is stringent regarding refunds, with fees deducted from the ticket price.
Refunds are only free if you cancel at least 30 days before departure.
What if you forget your luggage? If you accidentally leave your luggage on the bus, fear not! You can reclaim your belongings through the Lost & Found office by submitting a form on their website. Ensure your baggage is labeled with accurate contact information, and consider adding photos to facilitate the claim process.
When completing the form, provide detailed descriptions of the items and include route information for easier identification.
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Concluding Thoughts on Flixbus
In summary, Flixbus emerges as the most cost-effective and dependable option for travel across Europe. With generally clean buses, often equipped with WiFi, and departing from popular terminals, Flixbus delivers on its advertised schedules, making it a preferred choice for many travelers.