It’s useful to check for a Wi-Fi or power socket symbol in the journey description, but you shouldn’t base your plans solely on this. Facilities may vary if the coach is changed, the signal may drop out in certain sections, and the socket may sometimes not work.
Charge everything before boarding
Your phone, headphones and power bank should be fully charged in advance. Take a short, working cable and, if necessary, a compact mains adapter. Do not run the cable across the aisle and do not leave your devices unattended. If you’re using a laptop, make sure it doesn’t disturb your neighbour and can’t fall over during sudden braking.
Prepare for offline mode
- download your ticket as a file or take a screenshot;
- save an offline map of your destination city;
- write down the addresses of your stop and accommodation;
- download music or films legally in advance;
- save the transport operator’s contact details and those of your loved ones.
Public Wi-Fi
Do not enter payment details or passwords on suspicious websites. For online banking, it is better to use mobile data or another secure connection. Disable automatic connection to open networks and do not grant access to files on your device.
Roaming
Before crossing the border, check the terms of your mobile plan. The destination country, transit country and network operator may have different rules. Disable background updates and automatic backups via the mobile network if data is limited.
Contingency plan
Agree with your loved ones on when you’ll roughly be able to get in touch, but let them know that crossing the border may affect your arrival time. Write down any important phone numbers on a piece of paper. Even if your phone is completely flat, this will help you to get help.
Why you shouldn’t take on-board services for granted
The bus may be replaced, the Wi-Fi may only work on part of the route, and the power socket may be occupied or faulty. This doesn’t mean the service is poor: the signal depends on network coverage and the number of users. So prepare your important documents and navigation as if you won’t have any internet access at all.
Passenger’s offline kit
Save PDFs or screenshots of your tickets, your hotel address, directions from the bus stop, your booking reference and the phone numbers of your loved ones. Download maps of the cities you’ll be visiting, language packs for your translation app and entertainment for the journey. Check that the files open without an internet connection. It’s useful to have at least the hotel name and telephone number written down on paper.
Power bank and cables
Your power bank should be fully charged and kept in your hand luggage. Take a cable you’ve already tested, and a short adapter only if necessary. Do not leave devices charging unattended, do not place them on the edge of a table, and do not block the passageway with cables. If a socket gets hot, sparks or does not hold the plug securely, stop using it and inform the driver.
Safety on public Wi-Fi networks
Network names may be similar, so check the correct name with the driver or on an official notice. Do not enter passwords, verification codes or card details in suspicious windows. Disable automatic connections and file sharing, lock your screen and use two-factor authentication for email and online banking.
Roaming and data usage
Before you set off, check which countries are on your route and verify your data plan with your mobile provider. Disable automatic app updates, photo backups and media uploads in messaging apps via your mobile network. Set a data limit so you don’t accidentally use up your entire data allowance whilst travelling.
What to do without a signal
Don’t panic if you lose your internet connection at the border or whilst travelling. Keep a copy of your ticket and address to hand, ask the driver about the next stop, and once you arrive, use the secure Wi-Fi at the station or a local SIM card, if that’s part of your plan. Let your loved ones know in advance that your contact times may change.
Before departure: a 10-minute check
The day before, open your ticket and double-check the date, local time, boarding address, passenger name and permitted luggage allowance. Save the ticket to your phone and take a screenshot in case of network issues. Charge your phone and power bank, and make a note of the carrier’s helpline number and the address of your destination. If you’re travelling internationally, keep your passport, medication and valuables in your hand luggage rather than in your suitcase.
Do not rely on outdated advice from social media as your sole source of information. Timetables, platforms, baggage rules, border requirements and available services are subject to change. Check important information against your ticket, the carrier’s official website and the websites of the destination country’s government authorities. A few hours before departure, check your email and messages: there may be a change to the stop or boarding time.
During the journey: consideration and respect for others
Take the seat indicated on your ticket, keep the aisles clear and follow the driver’s instructions at stops and during checks. Use earphones, do not leave your belongings unattended and do not hand your passport to strangers. If you encounter a problem — feeling unwell, a dispute over a seat, a lost item or an announcement you don’t understand — contact the driver or a station member of staff immediately. A clear report at an early stage almost always helps more quickly than trying to resolve the situation yourself.
On arrival: final check
Before leaving the coach, check the seat pocket, the overhead rack and the luggage compartment. Only then should you head for your next mode of transport or accommodation. If your plans have changed, let your loved ones know where you are, and keep your ticket until the end of your journey: you may need it to contact the transport operator.