7 Tips For The Most Comfortable Bus Travel

Modern buses are an extremely safe way to travel. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were a total of 52,645 motor vehicle fatalitiesin 2017. Only 13 of those involved cross country and intercity motor coaches. This means traveling by motor coach is nearly as safe as flying.

Taking a trip on a motor coach is also a convenient and relaxing way to travel. Passengers can sit back, unwind, and leave the driving to a professional. Most buses today are equipped with free Wi-Fi, outlets to charge cell phones and laptops, and entertainment systems such as DVD players.

As safe and tranquil as traveling via motor coach is, passengers can make their trip even more pleasant with a little extra planning. Here are seven tips to ensure your time spent touring by bus is the ultimate in comfort.

1. Pack a Pillow and Blanket

Most motor coaches have comfy seats that recline slightly and a climate-controlled environment. But for the ultimate in comfort, especially if you will be traveling overnight, a travel pillow and light lap blanket will allow you to best get your rest.

2. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Even short trips are more pleasant when your pants aren't too tight and your shirt is loose-fitting. Leggings, pants with elastic waistbands, flowing dresses, and casual tops, like t-shirts and pullovers without fasteners, will be most relaxing. Be sure to wear comfortable undergarments, too.

Don't forget to wear sturdy footwear, especially if you are going on a motor coach tour. You will likely be doing a lot of walking around museums, theme parks, or other points of interest. Flat, supportive walking shoes are best.

3. Bring Snacks

Motor coaches typically make frequent stops. This allows passengers to disembark, use the restroom, and get something to snack on or drink. However, gas station prices can be expensive, and they don't always have healthy offerings.

Additionally, diabetics and others who are prone to blood sugar fluctuations, as well as those who need to take medications at specific times, may need something in-between stops. Pack nuts, cheese sticks, fruit, or other treats to hold you over.

4. Take Rest Breaks

Even if you don't need to use the restroom or grab a snack, you should still get out at each stop. Sitting too long in one place can cause your legs to fall asleep. Get out and spend a few minutes at each stop stretching your legs and getting your blood circulating before you continue on your journey. You don't want to feel stiff when you arrive at your destination.

5. Carry Headphones

Some people find the sound of the road comforting but for others, it can make napping difficult. A small pair of earbuds plugged into your cellphone or laptop will allow you to drown out the din of traffic and other passengers with soft music, white noise, or an audio book.

6. Keep Your Toiletry Bag with You

You will feel better and more refreshed as you travel and once you reach your destination if you have a few toiletries with you rather than having them packed in your stored luggage. A toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, deodorant, facial or baby wipes, a hairbrush or comb, and a tube of lipstick or splash of cologne will quickly rejuvenate you.

7. Bring Reading Materials

When you grow weary of talking to your travel mates or looking out the window at the scenery, a good book will provide diversion. However, some people find that reading while they travel can bring on motion sickness as their body gets confused as to whether they are moving or stationary. Look up occasionally and stare at the horizon to stay balanced.