NYC to D.C. for a buck. Take THAT, airlines!

One of the advantages of living in a big city is the likelihood of finding cheap transportation options. For New Yorkers and D.C. residents, BoltBus offers the lowest cost travel I've ever seen.

The company offers express service between the two cities for only $1 (plus a booking fee), pre-purchased. Walk ups pay more, around 30%. Customers board/depart from either 33rd and 7th or Canal and 6th Ave. in NYC. In D.C. 11th and G St. NW, by the metro center, is the only stop.

If you're thinking of the typical city bus, free your mind. BoltBus offers free wireless Wi-Fi and power plugs on its eight daily trips. It also promises more legroom than customary. Seating is on the Southwest group model, so if you don't want to sit next to the muttering Vietnam vet with the bush jacket, buy your ticket early so you have options.

Passengers are permitted one large bag, and if there is space, can even bring a bicycle or golf bag. Match that, airlines!

The company has recently announced it is adding a route to Boston, so Beantowners are in for a price break as well.

As the airlines struggle, a number of these bus companies are vying to serve the plane-shy public. For trips of under eight hours, I'd just as soon ride the road as stand in the security line at the airport wondering if my flight was going to be canceled.

For those in the Midwest, MegaBus offers a similar service.

thanks to Gadling