12 Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Long-Distance Bus Journey

A long bus journey is a lot more pleasant with a little preparation. These twelve tips cover the things experienced travellers do without thinking.

Before you travel

1. Book your seat in advance

Booking ahead lets you choose your seat instead of taking whatever is left. Seats in the middle of the bus usually give the smoothest ride. A window seat is better if you plan to sleep.

2. Check your boarding point and time

Look at the boarding point on your ticket the day before and work out how you will get there. Plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes early.

3. Save your ticket on your phone

Open your e-ticket before you leave home and keep it where you can find it quickly. A screenshot helps if the network is weak at the terminal.

4. Pack a small bag for your seat

Keep the things you will need on the journey with you, not in the hold:

• water and light snacks
• phone charger and power bank
• any medicine you take
• tissues and hand sanitiser
• a light jacket or shawl

On the bus

5. Keep valuables with you

Money, phone, documents and jewellery belong in a bag you keep on your lap or under your seat, never in the luggage hold or the overhead rack.

6. Dress for the temperature

AC buses can get cold, especially overnight. Non-AC buses can be warm during the day. Layers let you adjust either way.

7. Eat light

A heavy meal just before or during a long ride can make you uncomfortable. Eat lightly and drink water regularly.

8. Prepare for motion sickness

If you get travel sick, sit towards the front or middle, look out of the window rather than at your phone, and take any medicine you use before the bus leaves.

9. Move at the breaks

Long-distance buses stop on the way. Use the break to walk and stretch, even for a few minutes. It makes the rest of the journey easier.

At the stops

10. Watch the time

Note how long the stop is and be back on the bus before it is due to leave. Remember your bus and where it is parked, since several buses often stop at the same place.

11. Take your valuables with you

When you get off at a break, take your small bag with you.

12. Tell someone your plan

Share your bus details and expected arrival time with a family member or friend, and let them know when you arrive.

One more thing

Read the fare rules when you book. Knowing whether your ticket can be cancelled or moved takes the worry out of a change of plan.

When you are ready, search your route and pick the seat you want. You will find more answers in the FAQ and the help centre.