Traveling by bus across the U.S. can be an affordable and scenic way to explore the country. However, for wheelchair users, accessibility varies significantly depending on the bus company, station facilities, boarding process, and restroom availability. While some services offer fully accessible buses with securement areas, lifts, and priority seating, others rely on curbside stops with little to no accommodations. Knowing what to expect before booking a trip is essential to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the accessibility features of major U.S. bus companies, covering onboard accommodations, station accessibility, boarding procedures, wheelchair capacity, size and weight limitations, and restroom availability.
Greyhound: The Most Comprehensive Nationwide Option
Greyhound operates the largest bus network in the U.S., making it the most viable option for nationwide wheelchair-accessible travel. All Greyhound buses are equipped with lifts for boarding, securement spaces for wheelchairs, and priority seating for passengers with disabilities. Each bus typically accommodates one wheelchair, though some newer models allow for two securement spaces. If a passenger prefers to transfer to a regular seat, their wheelchair can be stored in the luggage compartment for free.
To ensure a wheelchair space is available, Greyhound requires at least 48 hours’ notice before travel. Since there is limited space for mobility devices, early booking is strongly recommended. Passengers should also arrive at the station 30 to 45 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding assistance. There are weight and size restrictions for mobility devices, with a maximum weight limit of 600 pounds (passenger + wheelchair) and a maximum size of 30 inches wide by 48 inches long.
One of the biggest downsides of Greyhound’s accessibility is the lack of accessible restrooms onboard. While standard restrooms exist on all buses, they are too small for wheelchair users. Drivers are required to accommodate passengers by making rest stops upon request, but these stops may be infrequent and could cause scheduling delays.
At larger Greyhound hubs such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta, stations have wheelchair-accessible waiting areas where passengers can sit next to others rather than in a separate space. These stations also feature elevators and automatic doors for step-free access. However, smaller and rural stops are often outdoor waiting areas, gas stations, or convenience stores, many of which lack shelter, indoor seating, and accessible restrooms. In some cases, restrooms may be locked or require staff assistance, making it necessary for passengers to plan ahead for restroom breaks.
FlixBus: A Budget-Friendly Option with Limited Coverage
FlixBus primarily operates in California, Texas, Florida, and along the East Coast, with some additional routes in the Midwest. While many of its vehicles are accessible, not all routes guarantee an accessible bus. For this reason, FlixBus requires at least 48 hours’ advance booking if a passenger needs a wheelchair space.
FlixBus buses are equipped with lifts for boarding, and each vehicle has one wheelchair securement space. Unlike Greyhound, FlixBus allows slightly larger and heavier wheelchairs, with a maximum width of 31.5 inches, a length of 47 inches, and a weight capacity of 660 pounds.
A significant drawback of FlixBus is the lack of dedicated bus stations. Unlike Greyhound, FlixBus operates primarily from curbside pick-up and drop-off locations, which means there are no waiting areas, shelters, or indoor facilities for passengers. Wheelchair users may have to wait outdoors on sidewalks or in parking lots, which can be uncomfortable in bad weather. Because FlixBus does not have centralized stations, elevator access is not a concern, though some pick-up locations are at transit centers or parking garages where stair access could pose a challenge.
Like other long-distance bus services, FlixBus does not provide accessible restrooms onboard. Since there are no dedicated terminals with restrooms, passengers must rely on nearby public restrooms, which may not always be wheelchair accessible. This makes it essential to plan restroom stops carefully before traveling.
Megabus: City-to-City Express Service with Accessibility
Megabus connects major U.S. cities such as New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Unlike Greyhound, which serves many smaller towns, Megabus operates express routes with fewer stops, making it a faster option for long-distance travel.
All Megabus vehicles are wheelchair accessible, featuring lifts for boarding and one securement space per bus. Passengers who prefer to transfer to a regular seat may store their wheelchair in the luggage compartment at no extra cost. The size and weight restrictions for wheelchairs match those of Greyhound, with a maximum width of 30 inches, a length of 48 inches, and a total weight limit of 600 pounds.
A major drawback of Megabus is that it does not operate from traditional bus stations. Instead, it relies on curbside pick-up locations, transit centers, or parking lots. This means there are no dedicated waiting areas, and wheelchair users may have to wait outdoors with no shelter. Some pick-up locations—especially in larger cities—may be near train stations or transit centers that require stair access, adding potential accessibility challenges.
Like FlixBus, Megabus does not have accessible restrooms, either onboard or at pick-up locations. Because the service operates express routes with limited stops, passengers should use restroom facilities before boarding, as finding an accessible restroom mid-journey can be difficult.
Trailways: Regional Travel with Inconsistent Accessibility
Trailways operates a network of independent bus companies, primarily serving the East Coast and Midwest, with some connections to Greyhound routes. Accessibility on Trailways buses varies depending on the individual operator, so it is essential to confirm accessibility before booking.
In cities where Trailways shares stations with Greyhound, wheelchair users can expect designated waiting areas and elevators for step-free access. However, many Trailways stops in smaller towns are at gas stations, convenience stores, or parking lots, which may not have indoor seating, accessible restrooms, or shelter.
Trailways buses are equipped with lifts for boarding, and most have one wheelchair securement space per vehicle. The size and weight limits are typically the same as Greyhound, but since Trailways partners with different operators, these specifications may vary slightly.
Restroom accessibility also varies by location. In major cities where Trailways shares larger terminals with Greyhound, accessible restrooms are available. However, at smaller stops, restrooms may be in separate buildings, require a key, or be completely inaccessible. Some stops may not have any restrooms at all, making it critical for passengers to plan ahead.
