- Recommended
University Museum, Southern Illinois University
University museum with rotating art, history, and science exhibitions. A practical stop for learning about the region and campus culture.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$48
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$49
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 40 m
Buses on Sep 20
2
Distance
279 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast buses
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 buses from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 279 km distance in an average of 5 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 35 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 5 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
1:00 AM5h35Champaign, IL6:35 AMCarbondale, IL$481One-way0 transfers- 1:50 AM5h45Champaign, IL7:35 AMCarbondale, IL$491One-way0 transfers
- 1:00 AM5h35Champaign, IL6:35 AMCarbondale, IL$481One-way0 transfers
- 1:50 AM5h45Champaign, IL7:35 AMCarbondale, IL$491One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $22 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 26m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $22, while a bus costs an average of $54.
Distance: 173 miles (279 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$54 Average price | $22 Average price Cheapest | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 3m Average total duration 5h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 26m Average total duration Fastest 2h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL is a train with an average price of $22.
This is compared to other travel options from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL:
A train is $32 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL costing on average $54.
The fastest way to travel from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL is by train with an average journey time of 2h 56m.
Other travel options to Carbondale, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Champaign, IL and Carbondale, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $54 compared to roughly $41 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.60. The journey takes 5h 33m versus 3h 0m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:50AM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:50AM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 01:00AM | Duration 21h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:50PM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Live departures
Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:50 PM Champaign, I. T. at Market St. | 5h45 | 1:35 AM Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 1:00 AM Champaign, IL | 5h35 | 6:35 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:50 AM Champaign, IL | 5h45 | 7:35 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $40 but you can travel from only $14 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:00, the last at 19:50. The fastest bus covers the 173 miles (279 km) distance in 5h 10m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $14
Distance 173 miles (279 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 5h 10m |
First bus 6:00 AM |
Last bus 7:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 70 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $14
Bus providers: FlixBus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, ILYou can travel by bus between Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL with FlixBus for as low as $14. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
5h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$40
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Carbondale, IL
Things to do in Carbondale, IL
Discover the best of Carbondale, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carbondale, IL trip today.
- Recommended
Sharp Museum
Campus art museum showing contemporary and historical works in curated exhibitions. Worth visiting for accessible regional and academic art programming.
Glove Factory Gallery
Student-focused gallery presenting changing exhibitions by local and visiting artists. A smaller venue that offers a fresh look at current creative work.
- Recommended
Turley Park
Large community park with a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and open lawns. It is one of Carbondale’s best all-purpose outdoor spaces.
- Recommended
South Illinois Avenue
Downtown main street corridor with shops, events, murals, and easy walking access to local culture. A practical area for exploring the city center.
Touch of Nature Trail
Wooded university nature area with short trails and wildlife viewing. It offers a calm walking break close to campus and central Carbondale.
FAQs: Bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Carbondale, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL can start from as little as $40 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL is $54 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL is 5h 10m to travel the 173 miles (279 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 6:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL leaves at 7:50 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Carbondale, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Champaign, IL and Carbondale, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Champaign, I. T. at Market St., which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Carbondale, IL from Champaign, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Champaign, IL and Carbondale, IL including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Champaign, IL nor Carbondale, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Carbondale, IL, travelers should remain aware of petty theft and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in parking areas near popular venues like Southern Illinois University. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Scams are generally low, but travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodations and verify legitimacy before committing. Staying informed about local news and following standard travel safety practices ensures a secure visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL
Most Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL buses use the Champaign, I. T. at Market St. to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Champaign, IL and Carbondale, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Champaign
Arrival bus stations in Carbondale
Which Champaign, IL station do buses to Carbondale, IL leave from?
Buses from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL leave from Champaign, I. T. at Market St.. The station is from Champaign, IL city centre at Illinois Terminal, Champaign, IL 61820, USA.
Champaign, I. T. at Market St.Illinois Terminal, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Champaign, I. T. at Market St. from Champaign city centre
Bus50, 6, 100, 9, 3, 30, 1, 2, 5, 70, 7, 20 · 5m · $1 · every ~27 min
Champaign, I. T. at Market St. bus station facilities and services
Champaign, I. T. at Market St. has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi available. ATMs are available at Champaign, I. T. at Market St..
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Champaign, I. T. at Market St..
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Champaign, I. T. at Market St.: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Champaign, I. T. at Market St.: Wheelchair accessible.
Which Carbondale, IL station do buses from Champaign, IL arrive at?
Buses from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL arrive at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station. Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station is from Carbondale, IL city centre.
Carbondale, Amtrak Train StationCarbondale, Illinois, 401 S Illinois Ave, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station from Carbondale city centre
TRUE
Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station bus station facilities and services
Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station. ATMs are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Wheelchair accessible entry and services provided.
Most popular bus connections from Champaign, IL
More options for your journey from Champaign, IL to Carbondale, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carbondale, IL and Champaign, IL
Most popular bus connections to Carbondale, IL
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