I compared a $41 coach bus to a $195 luxury bus. The pricier option was better than flying first-class.

• I rode on a $195 luxury bus and a $41 standard coach bus between New York City and the Hamptons.
• The Hamptons Streamliner had incredibly comfortable seats, fun snacks, and great WiFi.
• The Jitney is a little more convenient and still provides the basic necessities for a journey.  

Hundreds of New Yorkers and tristate elites flock to the Hamptons every summer. According to real-estate agent Jonothan Yarton, some even rent mansions for between $50,000 and $1 million a month.

Regardless of your socioeconomic status, choosing how to travel from Manhattan to the Long Island destination can feel like navigating a maze of options.

I recently explored two contrasting bus journeys: the luxurious Hamptons Streamliner (a new partnership between Blade Helicopters and The Jet luxury bus service) and the budget-friendly Jitney coach bus. The Streamliner cost $195 one-way, and the Jitney cost $41.