Good preparation ensures that your passport and the necessary documents are ready, and that you are not too tired to follow the instructions given by border control. 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
Before reaching the border, keep your passport, insurance and necessary documents in one easily accessible place. Wear a layer of clothing that will keep you comfortable when getting off the coach in cool weather.
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
Be fully awake, listen to the crew and answer briefly and truthfully. Do not take photos of security checks without permission and do not leave documents on the seat after a check.
What to do during the journey
When boarding, check the flight number, exact stop and baggage rules. During breaks, make a note of the return time, do not leave valuables on board, and after each stop, check your documents, phone and wallet. Report any problems to the crew immediately, not after the journey has ended.
Contingency plan
Save the contact details for the transport operator, your insurance provider, your accommodation and a close friend or family member offline. A small financial reserve, a fully charged mobile and the destination address written down will help you stay calm if the platform changes, you lose signal or the bus 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 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 the day before, as even sound general advice may not account for sudden changes to timetables, platforms or local requirements.
Before you set off, have a look at the packing list for a long coach journey and the list of documents required for Europe. Search for current departures on RedRay.
Frequently asked questions
Does everyone have to get off the bus?
The procedure depends on the border crossing point and the decision of the authorities; follow the current instructions from the crew and border guards.
When should you check the rules again?
The day before departure and before the return journey: the requirements of the transport operator, border authorities and local services may change.