Tips for catching the bus in the dark

As the days get shorter and colder, take steps to be prepared

A picture of a road intersection on a dark and rainy day. There is a bus waiting at the stop light, and people holding umbrellas crossing the street in front of the bus.

Each year when daylight saving time ends, we gain an extra hour of sleep—but we also lose an hour of precious daylight as the sun sets earlier. With colder temperatures and the potential for bad weather, Snohomish County transit riders should take a little extra time to plan their transit trips before heading out to the bus stop.

While Swift buses stop at every station, local buses only stop when someone on board requests it or when the driver sees a rider waiting at a stop. Here are a few tips to help your driver spot you easily—and to stay warm and comfortable while you wait.

Get to the bus stop a little early

We suggest getting to your stop at least 5 minutes early to make sure you are ready to board when the bus arrives. Online tools like Plan My Trip and Find My Bus on the Community Transit website can help you plan your trip and learn when the bus arrives at the stop. Bus schedule posters are displayed at each stop to tell you when the bus is coming. Swift stations display how many minutes until the next bus arrives.

Make sure the driver sees you

It’s dark and sometimes raining during the fall and winter months. As your bus approaches, there are some things you can do to help the bus driver see you.

Stand close to your bus stop to make it obvious you’re waiting for the bus.
Hold a flashlight or your cell phone with the screen lit up to wave at the approaching bus.
Wear light colors or even reflectors to be more visible in the dark.

Dress to stay warm and dry

It can get chilly! Stay comfortable by wearing warm clothes or dressing in layers. Rain is a given this time of year, so consider packing a hat or an umbrella. And remember—wearing all dark colors can make it harder for your bus driver to see you, especially at night.

Keep what you need within reach

Whether it’s in a coat pocket, wallet, or bag, make sure the items you need most are easy to access. For example, your ORCA card, Swift ticket, exact change, cell phone, flashlight, or keys. Having these essentials handy helps you avoid delays, inconvenience, and the potential risks of digging through your bag in the dark.

As the seasons change and the days grow darker in the Pacific Northwest, staying prepared can make all the difference. Use these tips to keep your commute safe, comfortable, and convenient.