Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA Bus

12/05/2024
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Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus

The journey from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus is 1,805.95 mi and takes 66 hr 59 min. There are 10 connections per day, with the first departure at 2:40 PM and the last at 10:50 PM. It is possible to travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus for as little as $347.68 or as much as $410.27. The best price for this journey is $347.68.

Lowest Price $347.68
Journey Duration 66 hr 59 min
Connection per Day 10
Lowest Price $347.68
Highest Price $410.27
First Departure 2:40 PM
Last Departure 10:50 PM
Distance 1,805.95 mi
Departure Chicago, IL
Arrival Santa Barbara, CA
Carriers FlixBus, Greyhound

Traveling from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA with Virail

Virail helps thousands of travelers plan their journeys every year. How? It's easy. Just enter the dates on which you plan to travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA. Our powerful engine will look at the data from thousands of travel providers, then show you all the available routes. You can choose to travel however you want. Decide on the type of transport you want to use, what time of day you'd like to set off and whether you'd like a direct journey or one with connections. When you've found your ideal route, Virail will redirect you to the web page of the provider. There, you can make your booking, then it's time to prepare for your trip.

How much does it cost to get from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus?

The prices for bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA vary depending on a range of factors including how far in advance you're booking, your travel dates, and the type of transport you want to use. On certain routes, there may be different classes available, which will also affect the price. Booked in advance, the cheapest bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA will cost $347.68. The average bus ticket price is approximately $384.80. For the lowest prices, it is usually best to book as far in advance as possible and look out for low-cost options, such as non-refundable tickets or traveling outside of peak hours. Be aware that some providers do not offer refunds or changes on their lower priced tickets, so it is advised to check before completing your transaction.
Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results.
Prices will vary when you travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA. On average, though, you'll pay about $384.80 for a bus ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper bus tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest bus tickets.

How long does it take to get from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus?

The journey between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA by bus is approximately 1,805.95 mi. It will take you more or less 66 hr 59 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The journey from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA covers a distance of 1,805.95 mi. On average, you can expect your journey to last roughly 66 hr 59 min. However, booking the fastest option will see you reach your destination in approximately 63 hr 25 min. For faster journeys, look for express routes. Please remember that these may only depart at certain times of day, or on particular days of the week. You may also find that you can go from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA faster by making connections, rather than taking a direct route.

What time are the departures from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA?

If you prefer to travel early, you will usually find the first departure from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leaving at 2:40 PM. Although things may change depending on the day, in general the last daily departure leaves at 10:50 PM.If you have some flexibility over the day on which you travel, you might find more options available to you. For example, some providers may only run early morning routes on weekdays, when people are traveling to work. You will often find fewer options available on weekends or public holidays. In general, the first departure of the night will leave Chicago, IL at 2:40 PM, and the last departure will leave at 10:50 PM. However, it is important to remember that this is general information, and these journey times are not necessarily available every day. Timetables for each provider on the route from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA can change from day to day or month to month. In particular, many providers offer different schedules on weekdays and weekends. Public holidays, local events, and seasonal timetables can also cause schedules to change.

How many times a day do departures from Chicago, IL leave for Santa Barbara, CA?

The exact number of journeys from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA can vary from day to day. Some services may only run on particular days of the week, while others might be seasonal. In general, an average of 10 departures leave each day. These are run by a number of different transport providers, including . On particularly busy days, there can be up to departures. You can usually expect there to be more connections on weekdays. Many providers run fewer journeys on weekends or public holidays. As a traveler, you may prefer to take a direct route from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA. However, you will find more options available to you if you are willing to take a connecting route. These pass through one or more different cities, and you'll have to change along the way. Not all travelers feel comfortable making multiple connections, but if you are, then you will enjoy greater flexibility when making your booking. The exact number of daily departures from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA varies, but in general, you can expect to find 6 direct connections with no changes leaving each day. Travelers who are happy to take an indirect route will find, on average, 4 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

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Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

The cheapest Chicago, IL - Santa Barbara, CA bus tickets can be found for as low as $85.34 if you’re lucky, or $103.65 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $157.32.

Find the best day to travel to Santa Barbara, CA by bus

When travelling to Santa Barbara, CA by bus, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

<p>FlixBus, a long-distance bus company, operates in both Europe and the United States. Founded in 2013, it has grown to become one of the largest bus operators in Europe, connecting over 2,500 destinations in 30 countries. Originating in Germany, FlixBus has expanded quickly to neighboring countries including France, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Croatia, while also offering regular services to Norway, Spain, and England. With affordable fares and comfortable amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets, FlixBus provides a convenient and enjoyable travel experience.</p> <p>You have the option to choose your preferred seat on Flixbus, with various categories designed to suit your specific needs.</p> <ul> <li>Classic: Choose your seat with no additional perks.</li> <li>Panorama: Sit in the first row and enjoy the most scenic views.</li> <li>Front: Travel quietly in the front section of the bus, starting from the 2nd row.</li> <li>Table: Enjoy more space and comfort with a convenient table in front of you.</li> <li>Comfort: Get extra legroom for a more relaxing journey.</li> <li>Extra: Reserve your seat and the one next to you for more personal space.</li> <li>Single: Enjoy the comfort of having no one seated next to you.</li> <li>Semi-bed: Relax with a seat that reclines almost flat, perfect for resting.</li> <li>Bed: Experience maximum comfort with a fully flat reclining seat, ideal for longer trips.</li> </ul>

Facility Description

Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.

power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon

Power outlets are available near seats on FlixBus buses to keep your devices charged throughout your journey.

luggage Luggage open icon close icon

Each passenger can bring one carry-on bag (up to 25lbs/11kg) and one stored bag (up to 50lbs/23kg) for free on FlixBus. Excess baggage up to 50lbs (23kg) is accepted for a fee, with limited space available, so booking in advance is recommended.

accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon

FlixBus offers boarding assistance with a hydraulic lift for travelers with reduced mobility. Contact the bus company in advance to confirm availability and assistance.

food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon

Snacks and drinks are available for purchase from the bus drivers during your trip.

bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon

Bikes are allowed with restrictions on FlixBus: 3 per bus with a cover, 5 with a carrier, but no electric bikes.

wifi WiFi open icon close icon

FlixBus offers free Wi-Fi on all its buses. Additionally, enjoy movies, e-books, audiobooks, music, and games through FlixBus's online entertainment portal.

Services on board FlixBus and Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA
Compare services on board when travelling from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus.
Facilities FlixBus Greyhound
power_sockets Power sockets check check
luggage Luggage check check
food_and_drink Food and drink check cross
air_con Air conditioning check check
wifi WiFi check check
accessibility Accessibility check check
bicycle Bicycle check cross

Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA CO2 Emissions by Bus

Ecology
Train
203.45kg
Bus
217.98kg
Flight
581.28kg
Car
465.02kg

Anything we can improve?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA?
A bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is $384.80. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $347.68.
What's the cheapest bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is $347.68. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA by bus?
Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is 1,805.95 mi.
How long does the bus between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA take?
Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is on average 66 hr 59 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 63 hr 25 min.
Which companies operate from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA?
The bus journey from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is covered by 1 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: FlixBus and Greyhound.
How many bus connections per day go from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA?
Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA has 10 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leave?
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA departs at 2:40 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA depart?
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA departs at 10:50 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest bus ticket we have found is $347.68 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
How many direct connections depart from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA?
There are on average 6 direct connection(s) from Chicago, IL to go to Santa Barbara, CA.
What's the fastest journey time between Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus?
The fastest journey time by bus between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA is 63 hr 25 min.
Is there a direct bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA?
Yes, there is a direct bus between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA.
What are the CO2 emissions for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by bus?
The bus journey from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA creates 217.98kg of CO2 emissions.

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