Travelling almost anywhere in the world can be done on a bus. Bus tours usually provide good value to the travellers but not all bus tours are the same. No one tour company will ever satisfy everyone’s needs for travel. Here we provide some tips on comparing bus tours. Generally, the best tours deliver what they promise.
Size of tour
The tour size is determined by many factors, mainly the bus size. However some specialty tours, like photography, cooking, and other interest tours limit numbers due to other reasons. In the majority of cases the conditions of the air-conditioned buses are excellent and their maintenance is up to date. They provide comfortable seats and other amenities like toilets on board. Small tours range from 8 to 20 participants, while large bus tours range from 20 to 55 participants.
Cheap, value or luxury tour
The cheapest bus tours are ridiculously cheap and generally participants pay extra for everything. Nothing is included other than travel and the accommodation.
Luxury bus tours generally include everything and provide luxury accommodation options and may even have several empty seats on the bus to make it more comfortable.
Be sure to do sufficient research to confirm that the tour company meets your expectations of travel. Some bus tour companies own their buses and staff a casual, others hire buses but have permanent staff. Each business model has its advantages and disadvantages. All generally claim to be the “best”. Small tour groups are more intimate for many reasons, while the larger groups are herded about form place to place with military precision.
Confirm that there is sufficient time at the attractions to enjoy them and for many people the small tours offer a minimum of 2 night stays so that participants do not have to pack and unpack every day. Many of the cheap tours move hotels every day to pack as much into the itinerary as possible.
Recommendations for bus tour travellers
Check that the provider is reputable
Go with the smallest group size that you can afford
Confirm that the accommodation is in the city (not the outskirts)
Avoid tours with multiple one-night stays
Ask for authentic food experiences and understand what meals are included
Read the fine-print including inclusions, exclusions and cancellation policies
When comparing prices – compare total costs, not just up front tour costs
In summary, not all tours are the same. Smaller value tours often provide the best experience for those who enjoy culture, history and meeting new people.