for long trips do you prefer: train, bus, air or own car?

Question

are there other options then let me know?

Answer 1

A lot of variables here. If I'm in a hurry, of course I'd fly. I'd avoid the bus if possible; it's very slow and the least comfortable option. However, bus has the advantage of being least expensive.

Train is a very pleasant and comfortable way to travel, if you can afford the little cabin thing. You can go into your cabin, shut your door, and have privacy, unlike a plane. It could take 30 hours by train, compared to a 9 hour flight, but you have seated dinners, you can bring your briefcase and get a lot of work done, you can sleep in a bed instead of a cramped chair, you can wash up and change clothes in the morning. Also, train stations are often located downtown while airports are a $40 taxi ride outside town. With a train, clearing Security and boarding takes minutes, so you need not arrive 2-3 hours prior to your departure time.

A car is great if you want a really leisurely trip, with a lot stopping along the way. It lets you totally control the route and zig and zag anywhere that strikes your fancy. If time were not a consideration at all -- and gas prices were lower! -- I'd choose a car.

If you make a long journey in a car and are trying to reach your destination quickly, you can be awfully tired by the time you arrive. I think the most comfortably I ever did the "drive straight through" from Florida to Michigan's Upper Peninsula was in a motor home. Like a train, we had a bed, a fridge, etc, and could really stretch out and be comfortable when it wasn't our turn to drive.

A car might also be a better choice than a plane or train if you really need to have a car when you reach your destination. Do the math, and don't forget those mil age charges. Rental cars can be a major ex pence if you're going to be renting them for a week or two.

Another option is go by ship. There are ships which are primarily cargo vessel which take passengers at much lower fare than cruise ships. Of course, you eat the same food as the ship's crew and don't have the amenities of a cruise. It's not very fast, but it's inexpensive and comfortable.

I have seen ads in college newspapers reading "ride needed to Cityville area -- will help pay for gas" but don't know anything about these arrangements. I know I'd hate to be stuck for 30 hours in a car with an unpleasant individual.

Answer 2

I don't fly, I wouldn't like a bus for a long ride, I can't stand being in a car for more than an hour. Trains are for me. I went from MA to Florida by train. I had a sleeper, private bathroom in the sleeper. You can walk around, go to the dining car, meet and talk with people, read, nap, etc. The trip took 36 hours but it was comfortable and relaxing. As you can tell, I don't travel much.

Answer 3

I like my own car, mainly because I have two kids, 5 and 2, and air travel can be a real pain with them. Once they get a little older, I think air would be the way to go, though I'd be interested in trying to auto train to Florida and getting a coach room on the train so we could sleep while we travelled.

Answer 4

it really depends on how far you are traveling and how fast you want to get there. i personally like to travel by train but ony if i can take first class, if you think about it first class is alot better you have your own room on the train and your food is included if you are traveling for days. and the food is really really good otherwise if you need to get there fast i would go by plane. if you have 18 hours or less to drive a car would probably be cheapest (if you are traveling with 2 or more) hope this helps out. oh yea and i would never ever recomend the bus they are slow and crouded and way over priced

Answer 5

It depends on how long the trip is. If it is about 8 hours or less by car, then I would definitely prefer to drive there. Any more than that I'd rather fly.

Answer 6

Up to 50 km --- Car
50 to 150 km --- Car/Bus/Train
150 to 300 km --- Bus/Train
300 to 2000 Km --- Train/Flight
Above 2000 Km --- Flight
Dreams are really quick means to travel long distances with out any cost!
If i've to go to an island, i'll take a boat.

Answer 7

I love train travel. I haven't gone lately (we don't have one locally) but I've ridden the Amtrack Auto-Train on a couple of occasions and it was great. I guess though, if you were to take a LONG vacation, driving would be better if you have reliable transportation as you can stop anywhere you want and site-see.

Answer 8

Having my own car gives me freedom. While it takes longer, you really feel you've been somewhere and seen something. When time is short and doesn't allow for a car, I prefer to fly (but it is complicated these days!)

Answer 9

I prefer my own vehicle and the reason for this is because I can stop whenever I want to and stretch my legs. Listen to the music I want and go eat where I want. all the other ones you have to do and be on their schedule.

Answer 10

Definately train except if it is VERY FAR AWAY then plane.
The train is relaxing very safe and u can move and watch the area things u can't do in any other transport!!