A Holiday Travel Crunch Like No Other
The holiday season is always busy, but this year is shaping up to be historic. According to AAA’s 2025 Christmas and New Year’s forecast, more than 122 million Americans are expected to travel between December 20 and January 1. That’s a record, and it means crowded airports, long security lines, and highways packed with cars.
For many travelers, the default choice is to fly or drive. Yet with demand at unprecedented levels, both options come with stress: delays, cancellations, traffic jams, and rising costs. Which raises the question: is it time to rethink the bus or train as less-stressful alternatives?
Amtrak and Greyhound Earn High Marks
On the move with America’s bus service.
(tirc83 via Getty Images)
Two of North America’s most established travel providers just received fresh recognition for customer service. In USA TODAY’s “America’s Best Customer Service 2026” list, both Amtrak and Greyhound earned 4.5‑star ratings in the Transit and Airline Services category.
The study began with more than 21,000 U.S. companies, narrowed to 7,100 evaluated in depth, and surveyed over 32,000 consumers between September and October 2025.
Researchers also analyzed 3.1 million customer reviews, including more than 2 million from this year’s survey and over 1.1 million reviews from prior years, to highlight companies delivering not just standout service, but consistent excellence. For Amtrak and Greyhound, the recognition signals that passengers are noticing improvements in service quality.
Greyhound, part of Flix North America, serves more than 1,600 destinations across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Amtrak operates over 35 named routes reaching more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada, while continuing to modernize its fleet and expand service. Both companies are positioning themselves as viable alternatives for travelers weary of airport chaos or highway gridlock.
Why Bus and Train Travel Deserves a Second Look
Beyond recognition, there are practical reasons to consider rail or bus travel this holiday season:
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Less stress: No TSA lines, no baggage fees, and fewer cancellations compared to air travel.
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Relax on the road: Buses use the same highways as cars, but you’re free to unwind while someone else drives.
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Convenience: Central stations often sit in the heart of cities, reducing the need for long drives to the airport.
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Affordability: Bus fares are typically lower than flights, while train fares vary by distance and service.
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Sustainability: Rail and bus travel have a smaller carbon footprint compared to flying or driving alone.
For travelers curious about Amtrak’s reach, my Amtrak route guide offers a detailed look at where trains can take you across the country.
The Holiday Travel Narrative Is Shifting
Relaxed moments, scenic views.
(Vilin Visuals via Getty Images)
The AAA forecast makes clear that travel demand is surging. But the recognition of Amtrak and Greyhound suggests that alternatives are not only viable — they are increasingly appreciated by passengers.
This shift matters. For decades, bus and train travel were seen as secondary options, overshadowed by the convenience and speed of flying. Yet in a year when airports are bursting, and highways resemble parking lots, the slower pace of a train ride or the chance to relax on a bus while someone else drives may feel refreshing.
What Travelers Should Keep in Mind
If you’re considering bus or train travel this holiday season, a few tips can help:
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Book early: Demand is rising, and popular routes can sell out quickly.
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Check schedules: Amtrak and Greyhound both offer flexible timetables, but holiday service may vary.
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Pack light: While baggage policies are more forgiving than airlines, traveling light makes the journey easier.
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Embrace the experience: A train ride offers scenic views and space to relax. A bus trip can be a chance to unplug and enjoy the simplicity of point‑to‑point travel.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The recognition from USA TODAY and the record AAA forecast highlight a broader trend: travelers are rethinking how they move. As demand grows, alternatives like Amtrak and Greyhound may become more central to the holiday travel conversation.
So while millions of Americans brace for crowded airports and congested highways, others may discover that the bus or train offers not just a way around the stress, but a surprisingly enjoyable journey.