- Must visit
Ellwood House Museum
A restored 1879 Victorian mansion and estate interpreting DeKalb history, architecture, and the barbed wire era. One of the city's best-known heritage attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$46
Average price
$46
Fastest journey
21 h 5 m
Average duration
21 h 5 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
206 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL without transferring at least once.
12:10 PM21h05Champaign, IL9:15 AMDeKalb, IL$461One-way1 transfer
- 12:10 PM21h05Champaign, IL9:15 AMDeKalb, IL$461One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $33, and a bus costs an average of $46.
Distance: 128 miles (206 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$58 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 50m Average total duration Fastest 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 59m Average total duration 8h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL is a train with an average price of $39 (€32).
This is compared to other travel options from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL:
A train is $19 (€16) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL costing on average $58 (€47).
The fastest way to travel from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 20m.
Other travel options to DeKalb, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Champaign, IL and DeKalb, IL including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 21h05 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Live departures
Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:10 PM Champaign, IL | 21h05 | 9:15 AM DeKalb, IL | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Jun 21
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Why should you book Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL run on average 1 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 12:05. The fastest bus covers the 128 miles (206 km) distance in 4h 45m.
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 $33 (€27)
Distance 128 miles (206 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 4h 45m |
First bus 2:00 AM |
Last bus 12:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $33 (€27)
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, ILYou can travel by bus between Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $33 (€27). 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 Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
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.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
21h 5m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to DeKalb
Things to do in DeKalb
Discover the best of DeKalb — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect DeKalb trip today.
- Recommended
Joseph F. Glidden Homestead and Historical Center
Historic homestead of Joseph Glidden, inventor of a successful barbed wire design. Small but important local museum for agricultural and industrial history.
- Recommended
NIU Art Museum
University art museum with rotating exhibitions of contemporary, regional, and global art. A strong cultural stop on the Northern Illinois University campus.
- Must visit
Downtown DeKalb
The city's main walking district with historic buildings, murals, shops, events, and the Egyptian Theatre. The best area for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Northern Illinois University Campus
A broad walkable campus with collegiate architecture, museums, public art, and green spaces. A key area shaping DeKalb's identity.
- Recommended
Prairie Park
Large community park with trails, open lawns, sports areas, and a relaxed local atmosphere. Good for a casual walk or picnic.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, sport peppers, a pickle spear, and celery salt. It is a classic Northern Illinois favorite often found around DeKalb
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thin-sliced roast beef simmered in seasoned jus and served on a long roll, often dipped and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is one of the most iconic regional sandwiches near DeKalb
- Vegetarian
Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. While associated with Chicago, it is a familiar special-occasion dish across Northern Illinois
The Junction Eating Place
A popular breakfast and lunch spot known for skillets, pancakes, sandwiches, and friendly small-town diner service
Ellwood Steak and Fish House
An established steakhouse offering steaks, seafood, and classic American dishes in a polished, traditional setting suitable for a nicer dinner
Fatty's Pub and Grille
A long-running DeKalb favorite known for burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and a lively sports-pub atmosphere with a broad beer selection
United States Dollar
Costs are generally lower than in major U.S. cities. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and upscale dining vary by season and events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 8-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 15-30 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 40-70 per person at an upscale restaurant.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants before tax. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or add 10-15% for taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.
FAQs: Bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL can start from as little as $46 (€37) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL is $58 (€47) ; 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 DeKalb, IL is 4h 45m to travel the 128 miles (206 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 DeKalb, IL leaves at 2:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL leaves at 12:05 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL which require at least one change with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to DeKalb, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Champaign, IL and DeKalb, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to DeKalb, IL from Champaign, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Champaign, IL and DeKalb, IL including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, 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 FlixBus, Greyhound.
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 DeKalb, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Champaign, IL nor DeKalb, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, 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 DeKalb, IL, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-frequented areas. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services or vendors. It is advisable to use licensed transportation and remain aware of surroundings, particularly at night, to ensure safety.
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 DeKalb, IL
Champaign
DeKalb
The major bus station for departures in Champaign is Champaign, I. T. at Market St.. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Champaign, I. T. at Market St. for your trip from Champaign to DeKalb.
Champaign, I. T. at Market St.
information
The major bus station for arrivals in DeKalb is Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall) for your trip to DeKalb from Champaign.
Dekalb, Holmes Student Center (LaTourette Hall)
information
More options for your journey from Champaign, IL to DeKalb, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from DeKalb, IL and Champaign, IL
Most popular bus connections to DeKalb, IL
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