Planning a bus trip is usually a great way to save money, but hidden baggage fees can quickly ruin your budget.
Unlike airlines, bus policies are often viewed as “relaxed,” but Greyhound has tightened its rules regarding weight limits, bulky items, and excess fees.
Whether you are cross-country traveling or just visiting the next city over, knowing exactly what you can carry, and what it costs, is essential.
At a Glance: Greyhound Baggage Rules 2026
Before you pack, review this summary to avoid surprise fees at the station.
| Baggage Type | Allowance | Max Weight | Max Dimensions (L+W+H) | Cost |
| Carry-On | 1 Bag | 25 lbs (11 kg) | 35 inches total (approx 16x12x7″) | FREE |
| Checked Bag | 1 Bag | 50 lbs (23 kg)* | 62 inches total (approx 30x20x12″) | FREE |
| Excess Bag | Up to 2 extra** | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 inches total | $21.99 – $44.99 |
| Bulky Item | 1 Item | 75 lbs (34 kg) | 95 inches total | Fee applies |
| Stroller | 1 per child | N/A | Must be collapsible | FREE |
Note: For travel to/from Mexico, the weight limit for checked bags is often higher (55 lbs / 25 kg).
Subject to space availability and must be booked in advance.
Free Baggage Allowance
Greyhound includes two bags with every adult ticket: one you keep with you, and one that goes under the bus.
1. The Carry-On Bag
You are allowed one small duffle bag or backpack to take on the bus.
- Storage: It must fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat in front of you.
- Responsibility: Greyhound assumes no liability for carry-ons. It is your job to watch your bag during rest stops.
- Items: Keep your medications, electronics, and tickets here. Do not put valuables in the baggage hold.
2. The Checked (Stored) Bag
You get one bag stored under the bus for free.
- Labeling: You must place a tag with your name, address, and phone number on the bag.
- Drop-off: You hand this bag to the baggage handler at the bus side before boarding.
Excess and Bulky Baggage Fees
If you need to bring more than the standard allowance, you will have to pay. Greyhound now uses dynamic pricing for bags, meaning the cost varies based on when and how you book.
Excess Baggage
If you have a second or third suitcase, you must pay for Excess Baggage.
- Cost: Fees range between $21.99 and $44.99 per bag.
- Booking: You should pay for this online when booking your ticket. Space is limited, and walk-up requests at the station can be denied if the bus is full.
Bulky Items
Items that exceed the standard dimensions (62 inches total) but are under the absolute maximum (95 inches total) are considered “Bulky.”
- Examples: Golf clubs, skis, large musical instruments.
- Restrictions: You are limited to one bulky item per passenger.
- Prohibited: Even if you pay, you cannot bring items heavier than 75 lbs or larger than 95 inches (length + width + height). These must be shipped via a package service, not taken as passenger luggage.
Special Items and Exceptions
Strollers and Car Seats
Traveling with children? Greyhound is family-friendly regarding gear.
- Allowance: You can bring one stroller and one car seat free of charge.
- Requirement: Strollers must be collapsible. They are stowed under the bus and do not count toward your checked bag limit.
Bicycles
Bicycles are allowed, but only on specific routes and they are never free.
- Fee: You must pay the bulky item fee.
- Storage: Bikes must be stored in a bicycle box or secure canvas container (wood or hard plastic is preferred).
- E-Bikes: Electric bikes, tandems, and tricycles are prohibited.
Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids
Mobility devices for customers with disabilities are not considered baggage. They travel free of charge and do not count against your limits.
Strictly Prohibited Items
Greyhound takes safety seriously. Do not attempt to pack the following:
- Pets: No dogs, cats, or birds are allowed, either in the cabin or under the bus. Only trained service animals are permitted.
- Firearms and Ammunition: Strictly forbidden in carry-on and checked luggage.
- Dangerous Chemicals: Acids, explosives, or flammable liquids.
- Hoverboards/E-Scooters: Due to battery fire risks, these are generally not permitted.
5 Essential Tips for Greyhound Luggage
Book Baggage Online
Do not wait until you get to the station. Adding a bag via “Manage My Booking” is often cheaper and ensures the bus has reserved space for your item.
Handle Your Own Transfers
Unlike airlines, Greyhound does not transfer your bags for you. If you change buses, you must get off, grab your bag from under the bus, and walk it to the next bus.
Use Hard-Shell Luggage
Bags shift during transit. A soft duffel bag offers little protection for breakables stored under the bus.
Weigh Before You Leave
If your checked bag is over 50 lbs, you may be forced to ship it separately or leave items behind.
Print Your Luggage Tag
While stations may have tags, it is safer to print Greyhound’s official luggage tag at home and secure it to your bag before arriving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Greyhound weigh bags?
Yes. While drivers may visually estimate carry-ons, checked bags are often weighed at the station. If your bag exceeds 50 lbs (or 55 lbs for Mexico trips), you may be charged a fee or denied transport for that item.
Can I bring my dog if it’s in a carrier?
No. Greyhound’s policy is strict: Service animals only. Emotional support animals and pets in carriers are not permitted on the bus or in the cargo hold.
What happens if Greyhound loses my bag?
Greyhound expressly disclaims liability for lost or damaged baggage in most scenarios. They offer a limited liability (up to $250 for adults) only in specific cases of negligence or accidents.
Always keep valuables in your carry-on and ensure your travel insurance covers baggage loss.
Can I bring alcohol in my checked bag?
Yes, you can transport alcohol in your checked luggage if it is unopened and packed securely to prevent breakage. However, consuming alcohol on board the bus is strictly prohibited.
What is the fee for a second bag?
There is no longer a flat fee. Expect to pay between $21.99 and $44.99 depending on the route and demand. Check the price on the website when you buy your ticket.
Final Thoughts
If you have unusual items or extra bags, always declare them during your online booking to lock in the best rate and guarantee space.
Ready to book? Check the latest routes and baggage fees directly on the official Greyhound website before you travel.
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
