How to prepare for a long bus journey: useful life hacks

After civilian aircraft stopped flying over Ukraine, bus tours became very popular. It is a quick and convenient way to get almost anywhere. However, you should prepare for such a trip in advance to make it comfortable.

• Plan your route

Be sure to check the date and time of departure, ask about the availability of luggage storage. If possible, see how the seats are arranged in the bus, whether you can recline and sleep, whether there is a toilet and other amenities inside to make the journey easier.

• Ensure your comfort

Bring a comfortable pillow or blanket for a more comfortable seat or rest during the journey. You can also bring noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs and a sleeping mask so that you can sleep at any time.

• <strong class="fullText_header">Choose shoes and clothes</strong>

This is the most important and difficult part of the preparation. If you have to travel by bus for a long time, your clothes and shoes should be as comfortable as possible. Choose items made of natural, soft materials that do not restrict movement.

It is also recommended to wear several layers of clothing so that you can adapt to the temperature changes inside the bus.

If the weather is expected to be cold, bring a light jacket or down jacket. If it is hot, choose light, breathable fabrics that evaporate moisture well. At the same time, choose clothes that are easy to put on and take off, especially if you plan to change your outfit many times during the trip.

It is important to have comfortable shoes that will allow you to stretch your legs comfortably and not cause discomfort. You can also take compression socks with you to minimise fatigue in your legs.

Depending on the weather conditions and your personal preferences, you may want to bring a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun or cold air during stops.

Remember that you will be spending a long time on the bus, so it is important to analyse the details of your clothes. Pay attention to the comfort of elastic bands, fasteners, and seams to avoid unpleasant sensations. In general, try to choose clothes that will provide you with comfort, adaptability to weather conditions and convenience during a long bus journey.

• Prepare food and drinks

Take snacks and drinking water with you, especially if the bus does not have any stops. Choose light food that does not take up much space. Many people take meat, vegetables and other perishable foods with them. This is a big mistake.

Give preference to protein bars, freeze-dried food, high-calorie snacks that can be stored at high temperatures for a long time.

It is better to choose plain water for drinking. Various juices can spoil on the road, and sugary drinks will make you even more thirsty.

• Take medicines

Even if you never get sick and feel great, you still need to have a first aid kit with you. It should contain medicines for fever, poisoning, pressure surges, pain, etc. Also, take burn remedies, creams with high SPF, and remedies for mosquito and other insect bites. It will not be superfluous.

• Take care of the storage of personal belongings

Make sure that your valuables and documents are kept in a safe place and easily accessible to you. To do this, bring a small bag or backpack that can be kept on the top shelf or under the seat.

Also, ask in advance how many suitcases you can take with you and place in the luggage compartment of the bus. Some carriers charge extra money for bags.

• Bring some entertainment

Good entertainment can help pass the time. It can be books, magazines, music, films, games on a tablet or smartphone. Do not forget about a portable charger.

Remember that it is dangerous for people suffering from motion sickness to read or watch films on the road. It can provoke motion sickness, cause dizziness and even nausea.

• Don't forget about your own health

During a long journey, it's important to ensure good blood circulation. Stretch your legs and arms regularly, do simple exercises by raising your knees or rotating your head and shoulders. Take advantage of stops to walk around a bit.

• Get some rest before you travel

Try to get some rest and a good night's sleep before a long bus journey. This will help you to be more alert and energetic. Do not eat heavy meals, drink alcohol and, preferably, do not work the day before departure. Dedicate this time to packing your suitcase and recuperating.

Remember that bus travel is not for everyone. If you have serious back or health problems in general, consider choosing another means of transport. For example, you can get to your destination by train.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told how to choose a hotel when travelling.

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