For a trip involving several overnight stays, it’s not just the capacity of your suitcase that matters. It’s good if you can pack it without having to go through every single item before your next bus.
What to plan in advance
Set aside designated spaces for clothes, small gadgets and toiletries. On a short overnight stay, take out only the section you need, rather than the entire contents. Leave a separate empty section for worn clothes so you don’t have to change the system after the first day.
How to apply this whilst travelling
In the morning, check the areas of the room in the same order: sockets, the bathroom, the bed, the wardrobe. Don’t start sorting things out again just before boarding the bus. If you find yourself having to sit on your suitcase every time to close it, reduce the amount you’re carrying before the journey even begins.
Check before moving on to the next step
Before setting off, do a quick run-through: 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 trickier at a crowded bus stop. Check the number of seats, dimensions, weight and any special items against the rules for that specific bus service, rather than relying on the experience of 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 4.0), image 2 (CC BY-SA 2.0).
Questions and answers
Why leave some space free?
So that your belongings can be packed back into your suitcase without any hassle, even if some of your clothes have already been worn.
How can you check if the packing system is working?
You can move items 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 coach?
Follow the carrier’s advice and allow extra time for public transport, finding the platform and checking your documents. For international journeys, it’s better to arrive early than to plan a tight connection.