UK coach travel is undergoing a renaissance, with the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK (CILT(UK)) encouraging holidaymakers to consider one of Britain's most transformed modes of transport as the summer travel season kicks off.
Long gone are the days when coaches were linked with weekend trips to the seaside and excursions for the older generation. Today's coach industry has worked hard to transform itself - offering a modern, comfortable and easy travel experience – all of which appeals to a much broader range of passengers. Coach travel now attracts families, students, commuters and leisure travellers – helping bring new dawn of coach travel.
Modern coaches increasingly feature Wi-Fi, USB charging points, entertainment screens and better and more comfortable seats. Coupled with digital technology which has made journeys easier to plan than ever before. Mobile apps also allow passengers to book tickets instantly without the need for physical tickets - many coach stations have also introduced self-service ticket machines. All of which is helping create a seamless experience from booking through to departure.
Peter Bradley FCILT, MD of the UK Coach Operators Association and a member of the CILT (UK) Bus and Coach Policy Group, explained: “For too long, coach travel has been judged on outdated perceptions rather than the modern reality. The industry has invested heavily in new modern fleets, digital tech and prioritising passenger comfort. All with the aim of creating a travel experience that is convenient, connected and affordable.
“As we enter one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, now is the perfect time for people to take another look at coach travel. We also know coach plays a vital role in connecting communities, supporting the leisure industry, tourism and providing a more sustainable way to travel."
CILT(UK) is the professional body representing professionals across logistics, supply chain and transport.
The sector has also benefited from growing competition – adding new players to the sector. All of which is helping drive advances in service quality, route availability and value for money. As a result, coach travel is becoming a more and more attractive option for those looking for affordable, convenient and sustainable way to travel.
Beyond summer holidays, coaches are playing a stronger role in the UK's transport network. Helping transport school pupils, connect rural communities, and move large crowds to festivals, concerts, sporting fixtures and other major events. Their flexibility and cost-effectiveness mean coaches are seen as a go to option to help support large crowds.
Peter added: “With millions of people expected to travel across the UK this summer, CILT(UK) believes coach travel is central in helping reduce congestion, lower transport emissions and deliver reliable and accessible journeys.
“As demand for affordable travel grows, and the cost-of-living crises continues, we are encouraging people to look beyond the outdated stereotypes around coach travel and rediscover a mode of transport which has quietly undergone a huge transformation.”