Do I need to buy tickets for the TIB buses on Mallorca before I get on, or can I pay once I'm onboard?

TIB buses covering much of the island’s public transport network generally allow you to buy your ticket once you board. Most drivers accept cash, so you can simply pay as you get on. However, if you're planning to travel the busy Ma-13 route from Palma to Soller or popular tourist corridors like Palma to Alcudia, it’s wise to have exact change ready, as drivers may not always have the ability to give change. For longer journeys or airports links, pre-booking online through the TIB website or via mobile apps can provide peace of mind and occasionally offer discounted fares.

Local travel around Palma also benefits from the easy-to-use Metro system and buses within the city, where you can purchase single tickets as you board. If you expect to use public transport frequently—especially when exploring towns like Pollenca or the beaches near Cala Mondrago—consider getting a TIB travel card, which allows unlimited rides for a set period and can be topped up in advance. During high season or special events like Sant Sebastià festival in Palma, buses can get crowded, so having your ticket ready speeds up boarding and ensures a smoother ride amid the rush.

In short, while advance ticket purchases aren’t strictly necessary across the island, preparing ahead lets you travel with fewer hassles. Checking specific routes and times on the TIB site before you head out is sensible, particularly if you’re connecting to the historic Soller railway or winding through the Tramuntana mountains along the Ma-10, where service frequency can vary.