Good preparation helps to ensure that your rucksack remains compact, does not get in the way in the coach, and can hold your essentials. Below is a practical guide for international coach travel. If the matter concerns health, medication or special needs, please discuss any personal arrangements with your doctor and the coach operator.
What to do before buying or packing
Check the permitted dimensions, try on the packed rucksack and distribute the weight closer to your back. A separate top pocket is handy for your ticket, cable and tissues.
How to organise your belongings and information
Gather everything you need in one accessible place, but divide essential items between your main and spare bags. Check instructions, expiry dates, battery levels and that everything is in working order at home. Take photos of important details without sharing too much personal information.
Risks to avoid
Do not overpack external pockets or attach long straps. Keep documents and money in an internal compartment that cannot be opened without being noticed.
What to do during your journey
When boarding, check the flight number, the exact stop and the baggage rules. During breaks, make a note of the return time, do not leave valuables on board, and check your documents, mobile phone and wallet after every stop. Report any problems to the crew immediately, rather than waiting until the end of the journey.
Contingency plan
Save the contact details for the transport operator, your insurer, your accommodation and a close friend or relative offline. A small financial reserve, a fully charged mobile phone and the destination address written down will help you stay calm if the platform changes, you lose signal or the coach is delayed.
Quick checklist
- check your ticket, documents and exact address;
- prepare a main and a backup plan;
- save contact details and a map offline;
- keep important items in your hand luggage;
- bear in mind the rules of the carrier and transit countries.
How to check these tips before you travel
Compare the advice with the specific details of your flight: duration, transit countries, season and the rules of your particular carrier. For documents, use the websites of border control and consular services; for health matters, seek individual advice from your doctor; and for luggage and boarding, refer to the information on your ticket. Double-check everything the day before, as even sound general advice may not account for sudden changes to timetables, platforms or local requirements.
Before you set off, check the packing list for a long coach journey and the list of documents required for travel to Europe. Search for up-to-date services on RedRay.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a waist belt?
It’s useful for long walks, but for a short walk from the bus, comfortable straps and a compact design are more important.
When should I check the rules again?
The day before you set off and before your return journey: the requirements of the transport operator, border authorities and local services may change.