Proper preparation helps to ensure that your eyes do not suffer from dry air and that you change your contact lenses with clean hands. Below is a practical checklist for international coach travel. If the matter concerns health, medication or special needs, please discuss any personal arrangements with your doctor and the coach operator.
What to do before buying or packing
Take spare lenses, a case, approved solution and a pair of glasses. If you have an eye condition or specific wearing instructions, consult an ophthalmologist.
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 rinse your lenses with water or touch them with unwashed hands. Sleeping in your lenses is only permitted for models and in situations prescribed by a specialist.
What to do during your 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 cabin, and check your documents, phone and wallet after every 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 transport operator, your insurance provider, your accommodation and a loved one offline. A small financial reserve, a fully charged mobile phone and the destination address written down will help you stay calmer if the platform changes, you lose signal or the coach is delayed.
Quick checklist
- check your ticket, documents and the 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 specifics of your flight: duration, transit countries, season and the rules of your particular carrier. For documents, use the websites of border control and consular services; for health matters, seek individual advice from your doctor; and for luggage and boarding, refer to the information on your ticket. Double-check everything again the day before, as even sound general advice may not account for sudden changes to the timetable, platform or local requirements.
Before you set off, check the packing list for a long coach journey and the list of documents required for travel to Europe. Search for current services on RedRay.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use eye drops?
Only if they are compatible with your contact lenses and recommended by a specialist; check the instructions.
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.