Riding The Bus? Here's How To Make The Most Of Your Phone Time

Riding a bus while using your phone can be a great way to stay connected and be productive during your commute. Here are some tips to help you navigate bus travel while staying connected:

First, it's important to plan your trip in advance. Check the bus routes and schedules online to find the best route to your destination. Some city bus websites offer route planners, and you can also use apps or text message services to get real-time updates on bus arrivals. Planning ahead will help you avoid last-minute rushes and ensure a smooth journey.

When you're ready to board the bus, make sure you arrive at the bus stop a few minutes early. Have your phone handy to show your e-ticket or bus pass to the driver, or to quickly purchase a ticket if needed. If you're paying in cash, bring exact change, as bus drivers usually don't provide change.

While riding the bus, be mindful of others and follow bus etiquette. Try to minimize phone calls, and if you need to take a call, keep your conversation volume low. Using headphones is recommended if you're listening to music or watching videos on your phone.

Finally, stay alert and watch for your stop as you ride. Signal to the driver that you'll be getting off by pulling the cord or pressing the STOP button about a block before your stop. Exit through the rear door, and don't forget to grab all your belongings, including your phone and any charging accessories, before disembarking.

By following these tips, you can efficiently ride the bus while staying connected and making the most of your phone during your commute.

Using your phone to check the bus schedule and buy tickets

Using your phone, you can easily check the bus schedule and buy tickets. Here's how:

• Check the bus routes online: Go to your city's official transportation website or use a third-party app to view bus routes and find the nearest stops to your location and destination. Some apps or websites even have a route planner where you can enter your destination. Take note of the bus number and any transfers you may need to make.
• Plan your route: Find the bus routes that connect your starting point to your destination. Typically, one bus route runs east-west, while another runs north-south, so you may need to transfer buses if you're travelling diagonally.
• Check the bus schedule: Once you know your route, check the timing of each bus. Most buses come every 10 to 30 minutes, but schedules may vary on weekends and holidays. Note the first and last buses of the day. Some bus websites offer apps or text message alerts to notify you when your bus is coming.
• Purchase tickets online or through an app: Check if your city's bus website or third-party apps allow you to purchase tickets in advance. If so, keep an electronic copy of your ticket on your phone to show to the driver. Alternatively, some buses offer ticketing cards that you can load money onto.
• Buy tickets on the bus if needed: If you didn't buy a ticket in advance, you can usually purchase one on the bus. Bring exact change, as most buses don't provide change. A normal bus fare typically ranges from $1.25 to $3.00.

By utilising your phone to check bus schedules and purchase tickets, you can make your bus travel experience more convenient and efficient.

Using your phone to track the bus in real-time

Choose a Tracking App or Website

Firstly, you need to choose a bus-tracking app or website that suits your needs. There are many options available, such as BusWhere, Pace Bus Tracker, Transit App, County Connection, and Track-It. Some of these are specific to certain locations or bus companies, so make sure you choose one that covers your area.

Install the App or Bookmark the Website

If you choose to use a bus-tracking app, you will need to install it on your phone. You can find these apps on your phone's app store, and they are usually free to download. If you prefer to use a website, simply bookmark it on your phone's web browser for easy access.

Set Up an Account

Some bus-tracking services may require you to set up an account. This often allows you to personalise your experience, such as saving your favourite routes and stops. You can also choose to receive notifications or alerts about your chosen routes and stops.

Select Your Route and Stop

Once you have set up your chosen bus-tracking app or website, you will need to select the route and stop you want to track. You can usually do this by searching for a specific location, or selecting from a list of routes and stops.

View Real-Time Information

With your route and stop selected, you will now be able to see real-time information about your bus. This includes the bus's current location on a map, its estimated time of arrival (ETA), and any delays or deviations from the schedule.

Plan Your Trip

With real-time bus information at your fingertips, you can now plan your trip accordingly. You won't have to worry about missing the bus or waiting at the stop for long periods. Some apps and websites also offer trip-planning features, allowing you to combine bus services with other transport options.

By following these steps, you can effectively use your phone to track the bus in real-time and make your bus journeys more efficient and stress-free.

Using your phone to pay for your bus fare

Paying for your bus fare using your phone is a quick and secure way to board public transport. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use your phone to pay for your bus fare:

Check for Contactless Payment Options:

Firstly, check if contactless payments are accepted on your bus. Contactless payments are usually indicated by a symbol near the payment terminal or on the bus itself. This option is often available on newer model buses.

Prepare Your Phone:

Ensure your phone is set up for contactless payments. This may involve downloading an app provided by the bus company or transport authority, or enabling a feature on your device. For example, iPhone users can set up Apple Pay, while Android users can use Google Pay.

Enable and Secure Your Payment Method:

Follow the instructions on your chosen app to add a payment method. This could be a credit or debit card, or a mobile wallet. You may need to authenticate your identity, and some apps may require you to set up a passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID for added security.

Board the Bus:

When you board the bus, have your phone ready. Hold it near the contactless payment terminal, and follow any on-screen instructions or prompts. You may need to tap or hold your phone against the terminal, or simply bring it close to the reader.

Complete Your Journey:

After paying, take a seat or hold onto the handrails if the bus is crowded. Remember to press the stop button or pull the cord when your stop is approaching, and exit through the rear door if possible.

Using your phone to signal that you need to get off the bus

Communication is key when riding the bus, and it's important to inform the driver that you'll be getting off at the next stop. While some buses have a "STOP" button or a yellow pull cord, you can also use your phone as a signalling device. Most bus drivers will understand a quick wave or a thumbs-up gesture to indicate your intention to disembark. Simply make eye contact with the driver and give them a clear signal that you'll be exiting soon.

It's best to signal your intention about a block before your stop, or at least a few seconds in advance. This gives the driver enough time to prepare and ensures they don't miss your signal. If you're using your phone, a simple hand gesture while holding your device should suffice. You can also verbally communicate your intention by calling out to the driver or saying "thank you" in advance, which is often understood as a signal to stop.

Additionally, you can use your phone's screen to reflect a light signal towards the driver. A quick flash of your screen can be an effective way to get the driver's attention, especially if you're sitting towards the back of the bus. Just be mindful of other passengers and avoid using a bright light that might disturb them.

Remember, it's always a good idea to double-check that the driver has acknowledged your signal. If they haven't, you may need to use a different method or try again to ensure they've seen your request.

Using your phone to check for service alerts

Sign up for Text Alerts

Some transit services offer text alert subscriptions. You can sign up to receive text messages directly to your phone, notifying you of any service alerts or disruptions. This is a convenient way to stay informed as the updates are sent directly to you, and you don't have to actively check a website or app for updates. For example, Lane Transit District in Oregon offers this service, allowing riders to opt-in and select their preferred routes to receive updates on.

Download Official Transit Apps

Many transit services have their own official apps that provide real-time service information, including alerts and detours. For instance, the MTA app in New York City provides real-time service information, maps, and schedules. Similarly, the RideMETRO app in Houston, Texas, offers current service alerts and detours. These apps are designed to make your transit experience more convenient and can be a valuable tool to have on your phone.

Follow Social Media Channels

Transit services often use social media platforms to disseminate service alerts and updates. Following their official accounts on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn can provide you with timely notifications and alerts. For instance, Lane Transit District provides service alerts on its website and social media channels, ensuring riders receive updates through their preferred channels.

Utilize Third-Party Tracking Apps

There are third-party apps available, such as BusWhere, that allow you to track buses in real time and receive notifications when the bus is getting close to your stop. These apps can provide accurate ETAs and improve your overall riding experience by reducing the time spent waiting at bus stops.

By leveraging these phone-based methods for checking service alerts, you can enhance your bus riding experience, minimize disruptions, and better plan your journeys.

Frequently asked questions