Once you’ve moved in, it’s a good idea to quickly check the condition of the room, especially if the property is subject to a security deposit or rules regarding liability for the property. The aim is to document any actual issues, not to take photos of everything unnecessarily.
What to consider in advance
If you notice any damage, take a clear photo and report it to the management via the agreed channel. State your room number or booking reference, the location of the damage and the time it was discovered. Do not publish other people’s belongings, documents, access codes or the personal details of other guests.
How to apply this whilst travelling
Ask for confirmation that your report has been received. If the issue is affecting your stay, explain specifically what needs to be resolved and wait for a response regarding possible solutions. Do not attempt to repair the equipment yourself, and do not leave an obvious fault unreported until you check out.
Check before taking the next step
When choosing accommodation, check not only the location on the map but also the actual entrance, how you’ll collect the key and whether you can leave your belongings somewhere. Keep a record of the landlord’s or management’s response. After a long bus journey, it’s worth having a clear plan for your first move that doesn’t depend on your phone’s battery, the mood of a random passer-by or whether a café is open.
Useful information before your trip
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 up-to-date coach services and route options on RedRay.
Photo sources: image 1 (CC BY-SA 3.0), image 2 (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Questions and answers
When should you report any damage you’ve noticed?
Shortly after discovery, before it becomes difficult to establish exactly when it occurred.
What sort of confirmation from the accommodation provider is actually useful?
Specific details regarding the time, entrance, keys and contact details of the person who will assist with any changes to your arrival.
When should you last check your route and stop?
Check your journey after booking, again 24 hours before departure, and once more before heading to the stop. Save your journey number and the transport operator’s confirmation offline.
How much time should you allow before boarding the bus?
Follow the carrier’s recommendations 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.