Do you enjoy long distance bus
travel? Comfort is everything! Bus travel can be exciting, affordable and fun.
While it is a convenient mode of travel, passengers may not always be
comfortable, particularly when it entails travelling many miles or sitting for
long periods. How to make long distance bus
travel more comfortable is a question that many travelers need to know ahead of
time, particularly students, baby boomers and seniors.
“A guide to cross-country
bussing” by M. S. Beltran offers tips for travelers on buses
likeGreyhound.
Your bus driver will be
assigned and waiting for you at the departure door of the bus depot. He will
request to see your ticket. Always make a point of being on time. Be polite and
courteous.
What you do with your luggage
is important.
Place as much of your luggage
as possible in the storage area under the bottom of the bus. Ideally, a small,
compact piece of carry-on luggage should suffice when on board. You may need a
scarf, light sweater, socks, reading material, a pocket-sized digital camera,
toiletries, canned or bottled beverages, munchies or a lunch. Alcohol is
discouraged.
Choose your seating carefully.
Sitting close to the front of
the bus allows a smoother ride and immediate access to the door. This works
well for long distance travelers who wish to go out for exercise or meals at
designated bus stops. Normally, the bus will allow sufficient time, but be
punctual.
Seniors may choose seating near
the front of the bus to avoid the noise or commotion at the middle or back of
the bus. Sitting close to the middle tends to be a rougher ride, as well as
more crowded. Many teenagers will head for the back of the bus. Here the bus
ride sways and can be noisy.
Choose your seating according
to your personal preferences of travel companions.
Students traveling by bus from
home to college or university are relatively active and tend to move around.
Baby boomers are quieter and less active, but interested in scenery, while
seniors are generally more sedate and want to sleep on the bus. Avoid sitting
beside potentially abusive or obnoxious fellow passengers.
Place your coat or jacket in
the luggage rack above your seat, so that you can access it easily. Place your
carry-on luggage on the seat beside you or under your seat.
Use a small pillow and blanket.
A small pillow and blanket are
excellent comfort measures for long distance travelers. At times, being next to
a window may feel cold and drafty. A blanket can relieve discomfort and
make it possible to sleep. The area at the front of the bus may feel cold to
anyone not accustomed to the door opening at bus stops.
Wear coats and boots that are
easy to get in and out of quickly.
What you are wearing when you
travel can determine your level of comfort on the bus. A light jacket or coat
is preferable, particularly if you want to go outside at bus stops. Being able
to slip in and out of your boots or shoes easily, your feet will feel more
comfortable.
Listen carefully to the bus
driver’s directives.
Bus drivers give instructions
to passengers prior to, or when leaving/arriving at bus stops. They announce
the time of arrival and/or departure, as well as the location of the next bus
stop. There is no smoking or substance abuse on buses. Note that bus drivers
may be making detours to drop-offs packages at various locations along the way.
The bus driver may mention points of interest, as well.
Use discretion with respect to
the use of washroom facilities.
Buses have washroom facilities,
but there may be water restrictions or limitations, particularly in the winter.
Carrying a small container with water, paper towels and alcohol-based hand
sanitizer is a good idea. Be respectful of fellow passengers who may also wish
to use the washroom facilities.
Remember that traveling can be
stressful, but at the same time, if you are comfortable, it can be the most
wonderful experience of your life. It is a great opportunity to explore new
horizons and make lifelong friends.
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