Traveling across Nigeria by road has become a common choice for many. Buses are the go-to means of transport for people moving from one city to another. However, as transportation costs rise, it’s becoming harder for people to find affordable options. But don’t worry. There are ways you can still book a bus ticket at a very cheap rate in Nigeria. This article will walk you through the steps and tips to help you save money on bus bookings.
I don’t mean you should cut corners or cheat any one to get a bus ticket at a cheaper price.
1. Choose the Right Transport Company
Not all transport companies charge the same fare. Some companies, especially the bigger names, may have higher fares due to their reputation, better buses, or extra services. Smaller or less popular companies sometimes offer lower prices, even though their service may be just as good. Research the transport companies that operate in your area and compare their fares.
Some affordable options include:
These companies often have reasonable rates for trips across the country.
2. Book Ahead of Time
One of the best ways to secure a cheaper bus fare is to book your ticket in advance. When you wait until the last minute, the prices tend to go up because of demand. Bus companies know that people who book late are usually in urgent need to travel, and they often hike the prices.
Most transport companies allow you to book tickets online. If you know you’ll be traveling soon, it’s a smart idea to book as early as possible. Not only will this save you money, but it also helps you avoid the stress of rushing for tickets on the travel day.
3. Take Advantage of Discounts and Promotions
Many bus companies offer discounts or special promotions. These promotions could be seasonal or come during certain times of the year. For example, during festive periods like Christmas or Easter, some companies offer cheaper rates to encourage more bookings.
To stay informed about these deals, follow the transport companies on social media or subscribe to their newsletters. Websites like intercity.ng sometimes announce deals that could help you book a bus ticket at a lower price. Always be on the lookout for these promotions.
4. Travel During Off-Peak Hours
Prices for bus tickets tend to fluctuate depending on the time of day you choose to travel. Peak hours, usually in the morning or late afternoon, attract higher fares. If you want a cheaper rate, consider traveling during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or late at night.
Since fewer people travel during these times, transport companies sometimes lower their rates to fill up the buses. This can be a great opportunity to book a ticket at a much cheaper price.
5. Use Online Booking Platforms
Technology has made bus booking easier than ever. There are several online platforms where you can compare prices from different transport companies and choose the cheapest option. Platforms like:
These sites often display a list of transport companies, routes, and prices. You can compare different rates and choose the one that fits your budget. The good thing about using these platforms is that they sometimes have exclusive deals that you might not find when you walk into a bus terminal.
Additionally, booking online saves you time and gives you a chance to secure cheaper tickets before they sell out.
6. Join Loyalty Programs
Some bus companies reward frequent travelers with discounts through loyalty programs. If you regularly travel by bus, ask if your transport company offers any loyalty program. Over time, you could accumulate points or discounts that can be used to get cheaper tickets.
For instance, companies like GIGM and Peace Mass Transit sometimes offer loyal customers better prices. While it may not seem like much, these savings add up over time.
7. Be Flexible with Travel Dates
Flexibility can be key to finding a cheaper bus ticket. If you’re not locked into a specific travel date, you might be able to find better deals. Fares fluctuate depending on demand, and sometimes, traveling a day earlier or later can save you a lot of money.
Use online booking platforms to check for price differences across different days. You may find that shifting your travel date by just one day can lower your fare significantly.
8. Travel in Groups
If you’re traveling with family or friends, booking tickets as a group could help you secure discounts. Some transport companies offer group discounts for passengers booking multiple tickets together. It’s always worth asking if the company provides any special rates for groups.
Traveling together not only makes the trip more enjoyable but can also cut down on transportation costs.
9. Consider Less Popular Routes
Buses traveling along major routes like Lagos to Abuja or Lagos to Port Harcourt are in high demand, which can lead to higher fares. If you’re looking to save money, consider booking a bus that travels along a less popular route. These routes often have cheaper tickets because there’s less demand.
Of course, this option only works if it’s convenient for you to travel through these routes. But if you have some flexibility in your travel plans, choosing a less popular route could be a money-saving solution.
10. Ask Around for Local Deals
Sometimes the best deals aren’t online. Local transport companies, especially those serving rural or less popular routes, may not advertise their fares on booking platforms. You can ask around at local motor parks or terminals for cheaper ticket options. These local operators often charge less than the bigger, more popular companies.
While they may not offer all the bells and whistles of luxury buses, they can still get you to your destination at a fraction of the price.
11. Use Bus Sharing Apps
Nigeria is slowly catching up with the global trend of ride-sharing and bus-sharing apps. Some apps connect passengers traveling the same route, allowing them to share the cost of the trip. Although these services are not as common as private buses, they can be a cheaper alternative for long journeys.
For example, apps like Plentywaka allow passengers to pool together and share the cost of a ride. This is especially helpful for people traveling on a tight budget.
12. Negotiate at the Terminal
If you’re booking your ticket in person, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Some transport companies, especially those with smaller operations, are willing to lower the fare if they see that you’re a serious buyer. It may not always work, but it’s worth a try. If you’re booking close to the departure time and there are still empty seats, the company might agree to a lower price just to fill up the bus.
13. Travel Light
Some transport companies charge extra for heavy luggage. If you want to avoid these additional charges, try to pack light. The more luggage you have, the more you may be asked to pay. By keeping your luggage to a minimum, you’ll avoid those pesky extra fees and ensure you’re only paying for your seat on the bus.
14. Check for Refund Policies
In case something comes up and you need to cancel or reschedule your trip, it’s good to know the refund policies of the transport company. Some companies offer partial or full refunds if you cancel within a certain time frame. This way, you won’t lose all your money if your plans change, and you’ll be able to rebook a cheaper ticket later.
15. Use Your Student or Senior Discount
If you’re a student or a senior citizen, ask if the transport company offers special discounts. Many companies provide discounted rates for students or older passengers. You might need to show a valid ID, but it’s a simple way to save money on bus fares.
Conclusion
Booking a bus ticket at a cheap rate in Nigeria isn’t difficult if you know where to look and what steps to follow. From booking early to traveling during off-peak hours, there are many strategies you can use to reduce your travel expenses. By being flexible and using online resources, you can secure lower fares and save money on your journeys.
With the tips shared above, you can make smarter decisions when booking your bus ticket. Safe travels!