Good preparation helps to ensure that light and noise disturb your rest as little as possible, whilst still allowing you to hear the crew and wake up before the next stop. Below is a practical guide for international coach travel. If the issue concerns health, medication or special needs, please discuss any personal arrangements with your doctor and the coach operator.
What to do before buying your ticket or packing
Try on your face mask at home: it shouldn’t press against your eyes. Choose earplugs based on size, the instructions and the condition of your ears; if you have hearing problems, consult your doctor.
How to organise your belongings and information
Gather everything you need in one accessible place, but divide essential items between your main and backup options. Check instructions, expiry dates, battery levels and that everything is in working order at home. Take photos of important details without sharing too much personal information.
Risks to avoid
Do not switch off all alerts if you are travelling alone. Set a vibrating alarm and inform a neighbour or the crew of your intended stop, without relying solely on the device.
What to do during the journey
When boarding, check the flight number, the exact stop and the baggage rules. During breaks, make a note of the return time, do not leave valuables in the coach, and check your documents, phone and wallet after each stop. Report any issues to the crew immediately, rather than waiting until the end of the journey.
Contingency plan
Save the contact details of the operator, your insurer, your accommodation and a close friend or relative offline. A small financial reserve, a fully charged mobile phone and the destination address written down will help you stay calm if the platform changes, you lose signal or the coach is delayed.
Quick checklist
- check your ticket, documents and exact address;
- prepare a main and a backup plan;
- save contact details and a map offline;
- keep important items in your hand luggage;
- bear in mind the rules of the carrier and any transit countries.
How to check this advice before you travel
Compare the advice with the specific details of your flight: duration, transit countries, season and the rules of the particular carrier. For documents, use the websites of border control and consular services; for health matters, follow your doctor’s personal advice; and for luggage and boarding, refer to the information on your ticket. Double-check everything the day before, as even sound general advice may not account for sudden changes to timetables, platforms or local requirements.
Before you set off, check the packing list for a long coach journey and the list of documents required for Europe. Search for up-to-date services on RedRay.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use headphones instead of earplugs?
Headphones can play background music, but the volume must remain at a safe level and must not drown out announcements.
When should I check the rules again?
The day before you set off and before your return journey: the requirements of the transport operator, border authorities and local services may have changed.