Traveling with your furry friends can be a great experience, but pet-friendly travel options are often limited. However, there are a handful of bus companies that allow pets in 2025, so you can hit the road with your fur companion. This guide explains which bus companies that allow pets in 2025, their specific rules, and tips for an easy trip.
As A Rule of Thumb in the Bus Guides Buses
All bus companies have different policies when it comes to pet travel. But, broadly speaking, there are certain rules most companies expect you to follow:
- Pet Eligibility
- Small Pets Only: Most bus services allow only small pets in carriers.
- What Pets Are Permitted: Usually cats and dogs. The availability of exotic pets could be banned.
- Approved Pet Carriers
- Carrier Requirements: Your pets must remain inside an airline-approved carrier for the entire journey.
- Carrier Size: The carrier must be small enough to locate beneath a seat or in other designated sections.
- For Pet’s Comfort: Before purchasing, check that the item is well ventilated and spacious enough for your furry friend to move around comfortably.
- Behavior Expectations
- Pets are required to remain in their carrier at all times.
- They should also not make an excessive amount of noise or smells that will annoy fellow travelers.
- Fees and Reservations
- Bus Pet Policy: Most bus companies charge a pet fee which varies by the operator.
- Pet Space: Pet space is even more limited, so reservations for pets are often needed in advance as well.
2025: Pet-Friendly Bus Companies
These are bus companies that allow pets in 2025, plus their pet rules:
- Greyhound (Select Routes)
- Greyhound permits pets on some routes, but options are limited. (While service animals have always been permitted, pet policies have now been extended to include small pets.)
- Key Rules:
- Pets and carriers together cannot exceed 20 pounds.
- Pets should remain in carriers on your feet.
- A non-refundable fee applies to pets.
- Megabus
- Megabus has just announced it will allow pets in 2025 on select routes.
- Key Rules:
- Small pets in carriers are permitted.
- Pets are allowed only if you make advance reservations.
- There is a fee per pet, which varies by route and travel time.
- FlixBus
- FlixBus is one of the most pet-friendly travel options in the US.
- Key Rules:
- Pets should remain in suitable carriers.
- It should be noted when making a booking that a pet is travelling.
- Pets incur an additional per-trip fee.
- BoltBus
- Passengers who need to travel with small pets should take advantage of the BoltBus pet-friendly services available on certain routes.
- Key Rules:
- Pets must be contained in carriers at all times.
- Pets are limited, so book early.
- Pet fees are non-refundable.
- Local and Regional Operators
- A number of local and regional bus companies allow pets as well. Call operators in your area to confirm their precise pet policies.
Traveling With Pets on Buses: How to Do It
- Prepare Your Pet
- Before departing, make sure your pet is comfortable in its carrier.
- Meineke added that people should take their pets on short outings to get them used to traveling.
- Ensure your pet has the opportunity to run around and relieve themselves prior to boarding.
- Pack Essentials
- Bring water, a collapsible bowl, and pet treats along on the trip.
- Be sure to bring waste bags to pick up after your pet.
- Include a favorite toy or beloved blanket to help settle your pet on the road.
- Follow All Rules
- Your pet must be the right size and have the right attitude.
- Make sure that your pet is quiet and kept to themselves for the benefit of other travelers.
- Abide by the bus company’s rules, so as not to create a nuisance.
Traveling with a Pet on a Bus: Tips and Tricks
If you are well-prepared and follow all the rules, traveling on a bus with your pet can be fun and easy. First, find out which bus companies that allow pets in 2025 allow your pet to travel with you. Some major operators — including Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus — have policies allowing pets, but many times these policies come with size and/or type restrictions, carrier requirements, and advance booking. Getting all these particulars out of the way beforehand gives you time to prepare.
Choosing a carrier suitable for your pet’s comfort and safety is essential. Choose a carrier that is well-ventilated and fits under the seat or in other designated spaces. To prepare your pet, introduce the carrier well before the travel date. Place familiar items like a beloved blanket or toy that will strengthen its sense of comfort and familiarity.
Train your pet throughout the day of travel, and give them time to exercise. This helps relieve anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable for both of you. Don’t forget a collapsible water bowl, pet treats, and waste bags. These will keep your pet hydrated, fed, and clean on the road.
While traveling, follow the rules of the bus companies that allow pets in 2025. Do not unfasten the carrier at any point of the journey, and do not take your pet out of the container at any point. If your pet seems anxious, reassure them calmly. Remember that courtesy to your fellow passengers will make any trip much smoother.
To end with, try to plan stops en route if you can. Many long-distance bus services have scheduled stops that take place as often as every few hours, so there are chances to get your pet out to stretch and relieve itself. Use a leash during such moments to ensure your pet’s safety.
With a little planning — and these tips — traveling by bus with your pet can be a pleasant, low-stress experience.
Pet Bus Services: Q&A (2025)
- Not every bus company will allow pets, so be sure to research.
- Not all bus companies are pet-friendly. Policies differ depending on individual operators, so check directly with them.
- Is a large dog permitted on the bus?
- Most bus companies allow small pets, as long as they fit in carriers. Service animals are not covered.
- Will there be an extra charge for owning a pet?
- Yes, there’s usually a pet fee, which varies by operator and route.
- How can I help keep my pet calm while we travel?
- Use familiar items like pet toys or blankets, and talk to your pet in a calm manner. Keep them cozy in their carrier.
- Are service animals covered by the same rules as pets?
- No, unless you have a service animal, which is typically exempt from any pet travel bans and fees.
Conclusion
There are more bus companies that allow pets in 2025 than before, making it easier than ever to travel with your pet. By familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations, preparing your pet, and adhering to the guidelines, you can make your journey comfortable and stress-free. Whether it’s a short trip or a cross-country adventure, here’s what you should know to make traveling with your four-legged companion easier.
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