It’s best to visit the market knowing what you’ll be able to take away and where you’ll pack your shopping. Otherwise, your trip will end with you having too many bags to carry before boarding.
What to think about in advance
Decide in advance on the type and approximate quantity of your purchases. Check whether they require special transport conditions or need to be checked against customs regulations. Do not buy unfamiliar foods, plants or other unusual items simply because the seller assures you they’ll pass through customs without any problems.
How to apply this whilst travelling
After visiting the market, allow time to return to your luggage and pack your items carefully. Consider how heavy or fragile purchases will affect the rest of your journey. If the market is a long way from your stop, don’t make it your last stop before catching the bus.
Check before moving on
Plan your day in the city from the moment your luggage is safely stored and you’re ready to explore, rather than from the bus departure time on your ticket. Choose a main destination and a short alternative. Before visiting any paid attractions, check the opening hours, entrance address and visitor conditions directly with the venue.
Useful information before your trip
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 the coach. Find up-to-date coach services and route options on RedRay.
Photo sources: image 1 (CC BY-SA 3.0 pl), image 2 (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Questions and answers
Why is it better to finalise your purchases in good time?
You need time to check that your purchases are suitable for transport, pack them and get to the boarding point without any extra bags in your hands.
What should you remove from your itinerary when time is running short?
Extra journeys and non-essential stops; make sure you keep enough time to get back to your bus.
When should you check your route and stop one last time?
Check your journey after booking, again 24 hours before departure, and once more on your way to the stop. Save your journey number and the operator’s message 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.