Here Are the 15 Best Movies to Watch During a Long Bus Drive

Long bus trips can feel endless, but a good movie can make the miles fly by. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, the right film can turn a cramped seat into a front-row ticket to adventure, laughter, or thrills.

We’ve put together a list of 15 movies perfect for watching on a bus, pulling from classics and modern hits that shine on small screens. From action-packed rides to heartfelt journeys, these films offer something for everyone, with details on release dates and key actors to guide your picks.

The Last Bus (2021)

Released on August 27, 2021, ‘The Last Bus’ follows Tom, an elderly man played by Timothy Spall, on a poignant journey across the UK using his free bus pass. After losing his wife, he carries her ashes from Scotland to Land’s End, where they first met.

The film weaves emotional depth with moments of kindness from strangers, making it a touching watch for a quiet bus ride. Spall’s heartfelt performance captures love and loss, perfect for reflecting on life’s big moments.

Nothing Lasts Forever (1984)

This quirky comedy, released on September 7, 1984, stars Zach Galligan as an aspiring artist navigating a surreal New York City. Directed by Tom Schiller, it blends satire and dreamlike visuals for a unique vibe.

Its offbeat humor and short runtime make it a great pick for a bus trip. The film’s oddball charm keeps you engaged without demanding too much focus, ideal for a relaxed journey.

Party Bus to Hell (2017)

Hitting screens on April 13, 2017, ‘Party Bus to Hell’ is a horror-comedy starring Tara Reid and Sadie Katz. A group of partygoers gets stranded in the desert, facing a supernatural threat on their broken-down bus.

The campy tone and wild plot make it a fun, low-stakes watch for a bus ride. It’s perfect for horror fans looking for light scares and laughs to pass the time.

In Search of America (1971)

Released on July 4, 1971, this TV movie stars Jeff Bridges as a young man joining a family road trip in a VW bus to rediscover America. Directed by Paul Bogart, it captures the counterculture spirit of the era.

Its nostalgic vibe and themes of exploration suit a bus journey’s sense of adventure. The film’s short length and warm tone make it an easy, uplifting watch.

Don’t Forget the Driver (2019)

This comedy series, airing from April 9, 2019, to May 14, 2019, stars Toby Jones as a coach driver navigating life’s chaos in a British seaside town. Created by Tim Crouch and Toby Jones, it mixes humor with heart.

The episodic format and relatable characters make it a great bus-trip companion. Each episode’s quick pace fits perfectly for short bursts of entertainment on the road.

Please Stand By (2017)

Released on January 26, 2017, ‘Please Stand By’ stars Dakota Fanning as a young woman with autism who embarks on a bus journey to submit her Star Trek script to a competition. Directed by Ben Lewin, it’s both funny and moving.

The film’s focus on determination and self-discovery resonates during a trip. Its compact story and strong performances make it a great pick for a thoughtful ride.

The Hills Have Eyes Part II (1985)

This horror sequel, released on August 2, 1985, follows motocross racers stranded in the desert, hunted by cannibals. Directed by Wes Craven, it stars Michael Berryman and Tamara Stafford.

Its gritty thrills and fast pace suit a bus trip’s need for distraction. The intense action keeps you hooked, making it a solid choice for horror fans on the go.

Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020)

Released on March 13, 2020, this drama stars Sidney Flanigan and Talia Ryder as two teens traveling by bus to New York City for a medical procedure. Directed by Eliza Hittman, it’s a raw, emotional story.

The film’s quiet intensity fits a reflective bus ride. Its realistic portrayal of friendship and struggle makes it a powerful watch for a focused viewer.

Bloodride (2020)

This Norwegian horror anthology series, released on March 13, 2020, features eerie tales centered around a mysterious bus. Starring Ine Marie Wilmann and others, each episode delivers a fresh scare.

The short episodes are perfect for a bus trip’s stop-and-go rhythm. Its creepy vibe and bite-sized stories keep you entertained without overwhelming.

Powder Blue (2009)

Released on May 8, 2009, ‘Powder Blue’ intertwines stories of loss and hope in Los Angeles, with a bus as a key setting. Directed by Timothy Linh Bui, it stars Jessica Biel and Eddie Redmayne.

The film’s emotional depth and interconnected narratives suit a contemplative ride. Its mix of drama and heart makes it a compelling choice for a long journey.

Bread and Tulips (2000)

This Italian comedy, released on March 3, 2000, follows Licia Maglietta as a housewife who takes an impromptu bus trip to Venice, rediscovering herself. Directed by Silvio Soldini, it’s light and charming.

The film’s feel-good story and vibrant settings make it a great bus-watch. Its focus on freedom and adventure matches the spirit of travel.

The Way (2010)

Released on September 10, 2010, ‘The Way’ stars Martin Sheen as a father walking Spain’s Camino de Santiago after his son’s death, with bus scenes tying the journey together. Directed by Emilio Estevez, it’s uplifting and heartfelt.

The film’s themes of growth and connection fit a reflective bus trip. Its scenic views and emotional core make it a memorable watch.

The Sweet Hereafter (1997)

This drama, released on May 14, 1997, explores a small town’s grief after a school bus crash. Directed by Atom Egoyan, it stars Ian Holm and Sarah Polley in a haunting tale.

Its introspective tone suits a quiet bus ride. The powerful performances and deep themes make it a thought-provoking choice for a long journey.

Speed (1994)

Released on June 10, 1994, ‘Speed’ is an action classic starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock as they try to save a bus rigged to explode if it slows down. Directed by Jan de Bont, it’s pure adrenaline.

The high-stakes plot makes it a thrilling bus-trip watch. Its fast pace and iconic moments keep you glued to the screen.

It Happened One Night (1934)

This romantic comedy, released on February 22, 1934, stars Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert as a journalist and heiress falling in love on a cross-country bus. Directed by Frank Capra, it’s a timeless gem.

Its witty dialogue and short runtime are perfect for a bus ride. The charming romance and vintage vibe make it a delightful escape.

Which of these movies would you pop on for your next bus trip, or is there a hidden gem we missed? Drop your picks in the comments!