In a year where travel plans are shifting, U.S. bus travellers are making their preferences known. According to the latest data from Busbud, a global travel platform, Miami, Orlando, and Montreal are set to dominate as the top bus destinations in 2026. These destinations highlight a growing trend towards warmer climates and cross-border travel, a clear departure from the usual travel patterns that characterised 2025. With the increase in searches for these locations, it’s clear that U.S. bus travellers are prioritising both leisure and international journeys.

Growing Interest in Miami, Orlando, and Montreal for 2026

Busbud’s report, derived from more than 10 million tickets sold globally, shows a significant shift in U.S. bus travel habits. The trend indicates that travellers are increasingly looking for sunny, accessible destinations, with Miami and Orlando emerging as top U.S. picks. Meanwhile, Montreal, Canada, a key international destination, is seeing an uptick in searches for 2026, further highlighting the growing popularity of cross-border trips.

These changes are not entirely unexpected. Throughout 2025, cities like New York, Miami, and Orlando were the busiest hubs for U.S. bus travel. The growing interest in these warmer and more easily accessible locations reflects a broader pattern of U.S. travellers seeking destinations that offer a mix of relaxation and adventure, all while staying within the convenience of intercity bus networks.

The Significance of Cross-Border Travel

Montreal’s rise as a top destination is particularly noteworthy, as it underscores the increasing role of cross-border bus travel. The proximity of Montreal to U.S. cities like New York and Boston makes it an attractive option for travellers seeking an international experience without the need for air travel. Busbud’s findings confirm that U.S. travellers are not only focused on domestic leisure but also keen to explore neighbouring countries, with Montreal emerging as a top choice for 2026.

2026 Travel Trends: The Impact of Bus Travel

The popularity of bus travel for these destinations is no surprise, as the convenience and affordability of intercity buses remain a compelling choice for many travellers. The increase in searches for Miami, Orlando, and Montreal highlights the ongoing demand for budget-friendly travel options. According to Busbud, the U.S. ranks third globally in terms of the longest average bus trip distances, a clear indication that American bus travellers are willing to journey long distances to reach their desired destinations.

As U.S. travellers prepare for the festive season, major hubs like New York, Orlando, and Miami will continue to see high volumes of passengers. For instance, during the holiday season, these cities will be among the busiest for both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, with many people making last-minute trips to celebrate the holidays. The surge in bus travel for these events further reinforces the significance of bus networks in connecting U.S. cities to popular destinations during peak travel periods.

Bus Travel’s Growing Role in Holiday Travel

As the holidays approach, the need for reliable and affordable transportation becomes even more apparent. Busbud’s report notes that U.S. travellers take some of the longest bus journeys globally during Christmas Eve, averaging 202.5 miles per trip. While this is a slight reduction from 2024, it still places the U.S. third globally in terms of average journey length. This trend reflects the ongoing reliance on buses as a preferred mode of travel during the festive season, with thousands of Americans opting for buses to reach family gatherings, holiday destinations, and end-of-year celebrations.

Busbud’s New Holiday Campaign Highlights Convenience

To showcase the reliability of bus travel, Busbud has launched a festive campaign centred around a lighthearted theme: “Santa’s Sleigh Broke Down, So He Took the Bus.” This campaign, aimed at U.S. travellers, features a humorous video showing Santa struggling with a broken sleigh in Manhattan and choosing the bus as the best way to deliver presents on time. The campaign aims to reinforce the message that buses are a dependable and stress-free option for those embarking on holiday journeys.

Busbud continues to highlight the importance of affordable, sustainable, and accessible transportation. As the demand for bus travel grows, especially during peak periods like Christmas and New Year’s, the company’s platform offers a vital service in connecting travellers to the destinations they desire. Whether heading to the sun-soaked beaches of Miami, the theme parks of Orlando, or exploring Montreal’s rich culture, bus travel remains an integral part of the U.S. travel experience.

2026 Will Be a Year for Warm Destinations and Cross-Border Travel

As U.S. travellers prepare for 2026, the growing popularity of bus routes to destinations like Miami, Orlando, and Montreal signals an exciting shift in travel preferences. The increasing interest in these locations highlights the desire for warmer climates, cross-border exploration, and accessible, cost-effective transportation options. With major U.S. cities continuing to see high demand for bus travel, it’s clear that intercity buses will play an essential role in shaping the travel landscape in the coming year.

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