Alright, so here’s the lowdown on my travel situation from upstate NY to DC. My buddy’s giving me a lift in the evening from upstate NY through Albany, Springfield MA, to Boston. I can hitch a ride and be dropped off anywhere along this route. I’ve narrowed down my options to four that fit my schedule: 1) Catch a bus at 11 PM from Albany to New York Penn Station (NYP), then chill for 2.5 hours until the first Amtrak train of the day. 2) Hop on a bus at 11 PM from Springfield to NYP, with a 2-hour layover before catching the early Amtrak. 3) Take a bus at 11 PM from Springfield to Newark NJ, hang for an hour, then catch the same Amtrak. 4) Or I could grab a 1 AM bus from Boston straight to DC.
I could crash overnight for about $100 in Albany or Springfield, or $200 in Boston or NYC, and then fly or take the bus the next day. But hey, I’m all about that budget travel life, so I’d rather kick back in my own bed. The prices for all these options are pretty much on par.
I’ve heard mixed reviews about NYP’s late-night waiting room; apparently, it’s ticketed but getting there can be a bit sketchy. Newark, on the other hand, doesn’t have a ticketed waiting area – the station is open, but the waiting room isn’t. The direct bus from Boston sounds tempting, but spending 10 hours on a Greyhound with its questionable bathroom situation doesn’t sound like my idea of a good time. So, I’m swaying towards the first two options.
This trip is happening in mid-November, and I have no clue if snow might throw a wrench in my plans. I mean, let’s hope not, right? So, any thoughts on which option is the winner here? Or did I overlook something crucial? Hit me up with your wisdom! Thanks!