After a walk in the rain, you might need your jacket whilst travelling, but you don’t want to pack it away with your dry clothes. A simple solution for this situation saves both luggage space and room in the cabin.
What to think about in advance
Take a separate bag or cover of a suitable size. Before boarding, if possible, shake off the water outside – away from other passengers – and fold your jacket without it coming into contact with your documents or electronic devices. Don’t place a wet umbrella in such a way that water drips onto nearby bags either.
How to apply this when travelling
On arrival, take out your wet items and dry them in a place permitted by your accommodation. A cover helps whilst carrying them, but is no substitute for drying. Do not use aisles, handrails or other passengers’ seats on the bus as a drying rack; your travel clothes should remain within your own space.
Check before the next step
Before setting off, do a quick trial run: carry all your belongings yourself and retrieve the item you need without unpacking your suitcase on the floor. If this is awkward at home, it will be even more difficult at a crowded bus stop. Check the number of seats, dimensions, weight limits and any special items against the rules for that specific bus journey, rather than relying on your experience with another company.
Useful information before your journey
Also check: what documents are required for a coach journey to Europe, how to prepare for an overnight coach journey, and the rules for carrying luggage on a coach. Find the latest coach services and route options on RedRay.
Photo sources: image 1 (CC BY-SA 2.0), image 2 (CC BY-SA 2.0).
Questions and answers
Should I leave my jacket in a sealed bag until the next day?
It’s better to take it out to dry as soon as you find a suitable place to do so.
How can I check if the packing system is working?
You can move your belongings around yourself and quickly find what you need without blocking the passageway.
When should I finish packing?
Finish the main packing the day before, and put your documents, mobile phone, charger, water and medicines in your hand luggage just before you leave.
How much time should you allow before boarding the bus?
Follow the carrier’s advice and allow extra time for public transport, finding the platform and checking your documents. For an international journey, it’s better to arrive early than to plan a tight connection.