Traveling from Philadelphia to Newark Airport? This article compares train and bus services, providing essential information on travel times, ticket prices, and amenities. Use it to choose the right option for your time and budget.
Key Takeaways
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Trains from Philadelphia to Newark Airport offer a cost-effective and time-efficient travel option, with an average journey time of 58 minutes and a starting price of $15; booking in advance can save an average of $56.42 over last-minute fares.
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Buses are a viable alternative for road travel from Philadelphia to Newark Airport, with ticket prices starting from $20 and online platforms like CheckMyBus for comparing services; amenities vary by service class and may include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and complimentary refreshments.
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Comparing train to bus travel, trains generally offer a faster journey time at an average of 1 hour and 13 minutes, while buses provide a more economical option, especially when tickets are booked in advance and discounts or promo codes are utilized.
Affordable Train Travel: Philadelphia to Newark Airport
Taking a train from Philadelphia to Newark Liberty International Airport offers the following benefits:

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Efficiency: Train travel is a convenient and time-saving option.
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Affordability: The average price of a train ticket is $15, making it a budget-friendly choice.
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Comfort: Trains provide a comfortable and relaxing journey.
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Multiple options: There are several train companies that operate on this route, giving travelers a variety of choices.
Train tickets are available across multiple platforms. Websites like Momondo help you find train tickets by listing the fastest train options and cheap train tickets, allowing you to search by specific dates for the best deals. Momondo also lists the quickest and cheapest one-way tickets found in the last 72 hours, which helps last-minute planners.
Direct Trains Between the Two Cities
There are 12 daily direct departures from Philadelphia to Newark Liberty International Airport. The first direct train, an Amtrak Northeast Regional, leaves at about 5
AM.The journey time for a direct train is approximately 58 minutes each way. That puts you at the airport in under an hour.
Saving Money on Train Tickets
Booking early is the easiest way to save on train tickets. Booking your train journey at least 20 days prior to departure can lead to significant cost savings, as advance reservations are typically cheaper than last-minute bookings. In fact, early birds can expect to save an average of $56.42 compared to those making last-minute bookings, which is a considerable difference in the average train ticket price.
Late bookers still have options. Last-minute ticket deals as low as $10 have been found through online deal searches within the past 72 hours. It is still worth checking prices close to departure.
Bus Options: Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport
If you prefer a road trip, bus services from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport present a solid alternative. With ticket prices starting from $20, buses provide a budget-friendly way to reach your destination. Various companies, such as FlixBus and Greyhound US, operate on this route, giving you plenty of options to choose from.

Platforms like CheckMyBus help you find the best deals. These platforms facilitate the comparison of bus services from different companies for the Philadelphia to Newark Airport route. Booking ahead and avoiding weekends and holidays usually means lower fares.
Bus Schedule and Frequency
Getting a grasp on the bus schedule and frequency between Philadelphia and Newark Airport is essential for effective trip planning. By comparing offers on an online platform, you can get a clear picture of the number of daily bus routes between these two locations, including the distance and duration of each route.
An excellent way to save money is to consider traveling during off-peak hours. Buses traveling in the evening or at night might offer the best prices and greater availability, presenting a cost-effective option for travelers willing to adjust their travel times.
Bus Amenities and Comfort
Buses between Philadelphia Airport and Newark Airport have a few standard amenities. Expect essential amenities like air conditioning and generous luggage space to accommodate your belongings.
Depending on the bus company chosen and the preferred level of comfort, you can select seat classes with associated specific amenities. Some common amenities offered on buses include:
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Onboard Wi-Fi
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Power outlets
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Reclining seats
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Extra legroom
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Personal entertainment screens
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Complimentary snacks and drinks
Additionally, many bus services provide rescheduling options for added convenience.
Comparing Train and Bus Services
Here is how the train and the bus compare. When considering your travel options, the aspects that usually come to mind are travel time and cost. Both these factors can significantly influence your decision.
In terms of travel time, trains often have the upper hand, completing the journey in approximately 58 minutes. Buses, on the other hand, offer a more budget-friendly option, with fares generally lower than those of trains. The details are below.
Travel Time Differences
Trains, especially those run by Amtrak, provide a direct and faster route from Philadelphia to Newark Liberty International Airport. The average travel time by train is approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes, but some trains can complete the journey in as little as 58 minutes.
Conversely, buses from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport usually take more than 2 hours and operate twice daily. This limited frequency may impact the overall flexibility and potential travel time for passengers.
Cost Comparison
In terms of cost, bus travel usually turns out to be the cheaper alternative. The average price for a bus ticket on this route is around $14.99, which can be cheaper than train fares. In fact, bus tickets from Philadelphia to Newark can be booked for as low as $13.99 if booked in advance.
In contrast, the average ticket price for a train from Philadelphia to Newark Airport is approximately $46, with prices starting as low as $39 if booked in advance. However, other factors such as the day of the week and the time of purchase can influence the cost, as last-minute tickets tend to be more expensive.
Popular Train Stations and Bus Stops
Traveling from Philadelphia to Newark Airport encompasses transit through several key train stations and bus stops. Platforms like momondo provide listings of major train stations in Philadelphia, while maps are available showing the locations of all bus stations in Philadelphia Airport and Newark Airport.

Several stations and stops are close to local attractions. Plus, dedicated shuttle services offer direct pick-up and drop-off at major transportation hubs, providing additional travel convenience.
Accessibility and Parking
The train stations and bus stops are equipped with accessibility and parking facilities to ensure a seamless journey. For instance, parking is available at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia with daily and hourly rates applied. Parkway Corporation operates many parking facilities near Jefferson Station in Philadelphia, offering parking options for travelers.
Accessibility services at Newark Liberty International Airport train station include ramps, elevators, and tactile paving for the visually impaired. In Philadelphia, bus stops are often located near public parking lots, offering parking at various rates. However, in Newark, buses servicing the airport may stop at locations without dedicated parking, necessitating alternative parking arrangements.
Booking Tips and Tricks
Utilizing booking platforms can greatly simplify the process of purchasing your tickets. Platforms like Omio, CheckMyBus, and Busbud aggregate various transportation options, making it easier to compare and choose the most convenient and economical tickets. Also, you can find promo codes and discounts through service provider newsletters, deal websites, and during the booking process through platforms like Omio.
Such discounts can further reduce your travel expenses. For example, Amtrak provides a range of promotions and discounts that can significantly reduce the cost of train tickets. By booking in advance, bus travelers can enjoy lower fares and guaranteed seating on services from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport.
Using Booking Platforms
Platforms such as Omio, CheckMyBus, and Busbud are instrumental in helping travelers find the most favorable prices and schedules for the Philadelphia-Newark Airport route. These platforms partner with multiple carriers, offering a comprehensive look at all travel options in one place, making it easier to find the most suitable deal.
For train travel, platforms such as momondo can be used to compare prices and schedules to secure the best deals on tickets from Philadelphia to Newark Airport. This way, you can make an informed decision and get the most value for your money.
Utilizing Promo Codes and Discounts
Promo codes and discounts can lower the fare. Take Amtrak, for instance. They offer up to 60% off for groups with Share Fares, while students can save up to 15% and seniors and military personnel typically enjoy 10%-15% savings.
Furthermore, Amtrak’s ‘Take Three Trips, Get One Free’ promotion allows frequent travelers to earn a complimentary roundtrip, which is particularly useful for repeated travel between Philadelphia and Newark Airport. So, keep an eye out for such deals to make the most of your travel budget.
Traveling with Luggage and Pets
Additional planning is required when traveling with luggage and pets. Before setting off, passengers should familiarize themselves with the specific luggage allowances of most train and bus services operating from Philadelphia to Newark Airport. For example, Amtrak allows one personal item and two carry-ons for free, with fees for any additional luggage, while bus companies such as Greyhound limit passengers to one carry-on bag and one checked bag with size and weight restrictions.
If you are traveling with pets, you need to comprehend the specific policies of each service provider. Here are some examples:
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Amtrak allows pets under 20 pounds for a fee, and they must be contained within a pet carrier.
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FlixBus and Greyhound US have specific conditions and restrictions for pet travel.
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In some cases, service animals may have different policies.
Luggage Allowances
Every bus or train service has its distinct luggage policy. Passengers are allowed to bring a certain amount of luggage on the bus from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport. The exact luggage allowance can vary depending on the bus company operating the service.
To avoid any surprises at the station, it’s advisable to verify the luggage policy directly with the bus or train provider you plan to use. This way, you can ensure compliance with the specific terms and have a hassle-free journey.
Pet Policies
As a pet owner, it’s vital to understand the pet policies of various train and bus services. Amtrak allows pets under 20 pounds for a fee, and they must be contained within a pet carrier.
However, bus companies like FlixBus and Greyhound US have specific conditions and restrictions for pet travel. In some cases, service animals may have different policies. So, make sure you check the pet policies of the service provider to ensure a smooth journey for you and your furry friend. Find airline terminal locations at Newark airport
Bottom Line: Your Best Options for Traveling from Philadelphia to Newark Airport
Traveling from Philadelphia to Newark Airport by train or bus is straightforward and affordable. By booking in advance, using booking platforms effectively, and utilizing promo codes and discounts, you can make the journey even more cost-effective. Check luggage and pet policies before you travel.
FAQs: Your Best Options for Traveling from Philadelphia to Newark Airport
How much is the train from Philadelphia to Newark Airport?
The train from Philadelphia to Newark Airport costs approximately $10 and is operated by Amtrak Northeast Regional. Tickets range from $19 to $210, and the journey takes about 58 minutes. It is a convenient and affordable transportation option for travelers.
How can I get from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport?
The easiest and most convenient way to get from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport is to take the SEPTA Regional Rail to Trenton Transit Center, then transfer to the New Jersey Transit train, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs approximately $18.
Does Amtrak go directly to Newark Airport?
Yes, Amtrak goes directly to Newark Airport, and from there, you would need to take the monorail to the airport terminals. The Newark Airport rail station is connected to the airport via a monorail and is serviced by both Amtrak and NJ Transit trains.
What amenities can I expect on buses from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport?
You can expect amenities such as air conditioning, generous luggage space, onboard Wi-Fi, and power outlets on buses from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport. These amenities provide a comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers.
How can I save on my travel costs?
To save on your travel costs, book in advance, travel during off-peak hours, use booking platforms effectively, and take advantage of promo codes and discounts.
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