Traveling by bus in Mexico is one of the most practical and economical ways to explore the country. But although it may seem simple, buy bus tickets It also has its joke, and there are several mistakes that many people make without realizing it.
If you want to avoid setbacks, overpaying, or being left without a seat, here are the five most common mistakes (and how to avoid them like a pro).
1. Buying at the last minute
Many people leave their shopping until the day of their trip, and that's where the problems begin. If you wait until the last minute, you run the risk of finding empty seats, or only the most expensive ones, or those at inconvenient times.
Tip: Buy in advance, especially if you're traveling on weekends, holidays, or long weekends. Online, you can see all the schedules and compare prices without leaving home.
2. Not checking the departure terminal properly
It seems like a basic thing, but it happens often: people get complacent and arrive at the wrong terminal. In large cities like Mexico City, there are several terminals, each with different routes.
Tip: Take a good look at which terminal appears on your ticket. If you have any doubts, you can confirm it before paying or check the map on the website where you purchased your ticket.
3. Not comparing schedule and service options
Another mistake is choosing the first option that appears. There are often several services (economy, executive, luxury) and different schedules with very different prices.
Tip: Take a few minutes to compare. Sometimes for a few pesos more, you can get more space, air conditioning, entertainment, and even snacks included.
4. Do not take advantage of promotions
Sometimes, when we're in a hurry, we miss out on discounts that could make a significant difference. Bus companies often offer promotions for advance purchase, students, seniors, or round-trip packages.
Tip: If you buy your tickets online, check carefully for discount codes or special fares. It's also a good idea to register on the platforms to receive offers by email.
5. Not storing the ticket or QR code properly
It seems obvious, but in a hurry, more than one person has lost their printed ticket or couldn't find the digital code just as they were about to board. This can delay your entry or even cost you another ticket.
Tip: If it's digital, save it on your phone and also send it to your email. If it's physical, put it in your purse or backpack in a safe place. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Traveling by bus is comfortable, safe, and accessible, but you have to do it strategically. Avoiding these mistakes when buying bus tickets can make the difference between a relaxing trip and total chaos. Plan calmly, check all the details, and enjoy the ride.