Is it cheaper to fly or take a bus from Joburg to Cape Town?

The cost of travelling between Johannesburg and Cape Town by plane or bus varies depending on aspects such as seasons, available specials and the level of luxury you choose. What is cheaper – flying or taking a bus? Here is a look at the different fares to give you a good idea of what it will cost, including some pros and cons of the different types of transport.

TAKING A BUS FROM JOBURG TO CAPE TOWN

There are various bus operators that offer bus travel between Johannesburg and Cape Town, each with different offerings and levels of comfort. Comparing the fares of 10 different operators for a one-way ticket with a departure date at the end of June for one person, the prices range between R450 and R1300. The average price is R772.

FLYING FROM JOBURG TO CAPE TOWN

An economy class, one-way flight ticket will cost you between R1253 and R3942. This is looking at the fares of five different airlines with a departure date at the end of June for one person. If you prefer business class, a ticket will cost between R3559 and R4534.

THE VERDICT

To answer the question what is cheaper, flying or taking a bus, the answer is a bus is cheaper. However, the option to go for, depends on your needs. If you prioritise speed, taking a plane is better. If you prioritise affordability, taking a bus is your better option.

While flying is more expensive than travelling by bus, it will get you to your destination much faster. A flight takes around 2h15m whereas a bus trip takes around 15 hours but could take up to 20 hours, depending on influencing factors such as traffic and the number of stops it makes. Airport transfers, security checks, and waiting times can add to the overall travel time when flying.

If you opt for taking a bus from Joburg to Cape Town, you will be sitting for longer and sitting for long hours is not good for your health. Prolonged sitting can disrupt the flow of blood, which might result in swollen legs, varicose veins, and the possibility of deep vein thrombosis, according to The Citizen. It is therefore important to get up at least once every 45 minutes.

Another common health issue when travelling is motion sickness.

MOTION SICKNESS WHILE TRAVELLING

Motion sickness is a common condition many people experience while travelling, regardless of the mode of transportation. So, whether flying or taking a bus, this could be an issue. Of course, the duration of discomfort will be shorter when flying. It is usually recognised by nausea, vertigo, stomach pains, and vomiting at its worst. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention give the following suggestions for those suffering from motion sickness:

• Sit in the front of the bus or plane and choose a window seat.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water. Limit alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.
• Eat small amounts of food frequently.
• Try and distract yourself with activities, such as listening to music or watching a movie.
• Suck on flavoured lozenges, such as ginger or lemon lozenges.