We’re not going to sugarcoat it, the United States is big. As the world's third largest country in size, able to fit the UK inside it more than 40 times over, the USA had no choice when it came to developing its transport links – they had to be good. Whether it be internal flights from Los Angeles to Boston, trains linking Chicago and Denver or epic road trips (thanks to car rentals) down to Miami Beach, here’s the lowdown on your best transport in the USA options.
By Car
In the US, cars are king. 92% of the population own them and spend, on average, 12 hours a week in them. They all but invented the road trip, and it’s not hard to see why. Whether it be cruising down hundred-mile-long roads in Nevada, winding round hairpin turns in the Appalachian Mountains or cranking tunes along the Pacific Coast Highway, the American car is more than just a mode of transport, it’s a way of life. Of course, if you’re planning a quick city break to New York, you won’t need one. But if you’re imagining a cross-country adventure up The Overseas Highway, East Coast and beyond, a car (soft-top roof optional) is much the best option. With pick-up and drop-off points at each major airport, as well as key locations across the country, you’ll have ample destinations to choose from to start your great American road trip.
If you’re worried about driving on the wrong side of the road, don’t be. US roads are easy to navigate. Most towns and cities use grid systems made up of highways, byways, boulevards and avenues so it’s hard to get too lost. If you’re travelling with the family, make use of the carpool lane and be sure to brush up on the country’s highway code. It was amended in 2022, so do make time to give it a once over.
By Bus and Train
To put it simply, buses and trains are great for long journeys, but not short. Thanks to Greyhound and Amtrak, you can get pretty much anywhere. You can ride the California Zephyr from Chicago to San Francisco, the Coast Starlight from Seattle to Los Angeles and the Capitol Limited from Ohio, through the Allegheny Mountains and the Potomac Valley, all the way to Cleveland and Pittsburgh. But be prepared, these are long journeys – some up to three days. However, with soft reclining seats, private roomettes and 360° viewing cars, you’ll be far from uncomfortable.
Buses, although not quite as luxurious, are still a convenient and affordable mode of transport in the USA. In fact, a trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas will set you back as little as $25. But while it may take you almost six hours to get there, it’s a great way to see parts of the country you’d never otherwise see. That being said, if you’re thinking of using them to get around cities, particularly Los Angeles, we recommend using Uber instead. Buses are notoriously unreliable and can be quite unsafe.
On the Underground
If you have the hang of the London underground, you’ll be a pro navigating New York’s subway system. There are 36 rail lines and no zones (like London), so nowhere is off limits. Purchase a MetroCard or use the OMNY (where you can tap on and off with a credit/debit card) and ride away. The subway is relatively safe (as safe as the London underground is), but do take care at night. It is important to note that while New York’s subway system operates on a 24-hour basis, not all lines and stations run and/or are open.
Los Angeles also has a subway system – albeit a lot smaller, but spread over a much larger area. It operates across Downtown and goes as far as Santa Monica and Hollywood. However, unlike New York, it is rarely used by locals and stations can be very quiet. Other cities like Chicago and Washington also have subway systems but are not as large as New York’s.
By Plane
Domestic flights are much the preferred mode of transport among Americans. Every major city has an airport (sometimes two or three), which schedules multiple daily domestic flights. And it couldn’t be simpler. You don’t even have to show your passport. Just some form of ID (a driver’s license is fine) and you’re good to go. However, travelling by plane between states isn’t the most sustainable option so, if you have the time, opt for that scenic train journey or give the Greyhound a go. It may not be the most direct but it’s by far the most scenic and cause for adventure, and isn’t that what the United States is all about?
