The empty seat next to you may be reserved for a passenger who will board later. Therefore, changing seats on your own does not always result in a more comfortable journey.
What to consider in advance
Ask the cabin crew if you can move to another seat and for how long. Do not move all your luggage there until you have received a reply. If your ticket includes a seat number, keep it to hand and be prepared to return to your original seat if instructed to do so by a member of the cabin crew.
How to apply this whilst travelling
Do not occupy someone else’s space with your belongings to give the impression that the seat is already taken. If you need to sit next to a travelling companion, it is best to sort this out when you make your booking. A seat that is temporarily vacant is not a confirmed replacement for your chosen seat.
Check before taking the next step
Follow the crew’s instructions both on board and at stops. It is best to ask any practical questions before the journey begins or during a safe stop; do not distract the driver from the road. If circumstances have changed, first clarify the current procedure, and only then adjust your own plans.
Useful information before your journey
Also check: what documents are required for a coach journey to Europe, how to prepare for a night-time 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 4.0).
Questions and answers
Why might a free seat be unavailable?
It may have been reserved for a passenger at the next stop or be subject to other restrictions imposed by the operator.
Should I rely on my experience from a previous journey?
No: a different bus, crew and route may have different conditions and a different stop schedule.
What should you check a day before your bus departure?
Check the boarding time and address, your documents, your phone’s battery level, the weather forecast and any updates from the coach operator. Save your ticket and contact details offline.
How much time should you allow before boarding the bus?
Follow the operator’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.