I prefer not to use night-buses, unless absolutely necessary. I take night-trains only to cover long distances, since they have a lower risk of theft and are relatively safe, plus you can walk around whenever you want, and they have toilets. You also sleep better, since it's a flat, smooth ride.
Many people overland for most of their trip, only using planes where they have to.
Much of a traveller's time is spent on rickety buses used by the locals as a primary means of transport. In particular we experimented with travelling on buses overnight, which meant that we saved money on accommodations, and did not waste a day travelling. There are generally different levels of bus service in every country, with excellent, air-conditioned buses with stewardess service available in some places you might not expect them. Turkey and Thailand both have excellent bus systems, as does Mexico. Of course, the slower, less comfortable buses that travel to remote areas are much more fun.