Traveling with Children by Bus: What are the regulations?

Traveling with your entire family can get expensive. The good news is that most US bus companies have special discounts for children, and in some cases, they may even travel for free! Wondering what the fees, baggage allowances, and regulations are? We’ve got you covered.

Can I bring my child’s stroller on the bus?
Yes. All providers allow one stroller per person. Also, it needs to be folded and placed in the underneath compartment (some carriers may charge a small fee).

How do I know if my child can ride for free or at a reduced rate?
If you have small children below the age of two, they may travel for free or at a discounted price. One child per adult is allowed to travel on their lap and not pay a fare. Any additional child pays either the full fee or gets a child discount. Exception: RedCoach, where children don’t travel for free but get a discount until age seven.

Can my child travel alone?
Children can travel unaccompanied by an adult as of eight years old with Greyhound, Peter Pan, and Jefferson Lines (note that fees may apply for unaccompanied children). With most other providers, no unaccompanied travel is allowed below the age of age 15. Also, the person accompanying a minor must be at least 15 years old.

What is the cost of baggage liability for children?
Baggage liability for a child’s fare is $125.

Here is a chart detailing each providers’ regulations:

If you have any questions, we’d be thrilled to help you! Contact us at + 1-888-988-5185, and we’ll do our best to find a solution for your travel plans.

Search and book your bus tickets to and from the United States directly on Busbud.com

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View Comments

  • Good day.

    My son is 17 and would to travel to jeffreys bay, eastern cape. Can he travel on his own? Also when I book the bus ticket do I click on adult or child booking?

  • 17 years old! Some ages are not safe for travel. You should reconsider this issue with your child.

  • In a travel from seattle international Airport to Vancouver bc, can I take off the bus at the border and stay there and not continue to Vancouver? My wife will pick me up at the border.

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