Riding the bus on a long-distance highway trip can be a rough or an enlightening experience. There are few better ways to really see the surrounding countryside or to interact with complete strangers in a neutral or positive way. Make your trip a little easier by managing your baggage efficiently in preparation for your adventure.
1. Don't overstuff your suitcases. If you do, they're apt to break and spill the contents in the bus terminal or the bus’ baggage compartment. Fold clothing neatly and store your accessories in an orderly fashion so the suitcase will hold more items and allow you to promptly find what you need during layovers instead of forcing you to sift through layers of clutter.
2. Label your bags carefully. Use your first initial and last name, especially if you are a woman who is traveling alone. You don't necessarily want other passengers to know that. Use your post office box number or your work location instead of a street address to prevent someone from copying it and tracking you home. Use permanent marker on the attachable tie label or plastic-covered card insert. Look around to see if anyone else has a similar bag and note where it is stored so you don’t pick up the wrong one by mistake when disembarking at your destination.
3. Make good use of your carry-on bag. Bring only what you think might be needed while en route, storing everything else in your larger pieces of luggage. Medicine, travel entertainment like a book or puzzle, children's toys, your bus tickets, and other short-term items should be kept in this bag for easy access. Even though you keep it with you, label the bag clearly as well in case someone picks it up by mistake, believing it their bag. If the trip will encompass several hours, you may want to include a toothbrush and deodorant. A foldable blanket and small pillow, if they will fit, might be useful, too.
4. Use coat or jacket pockets and a purse or wallet for smaller items. Cash, credit cards, identification papers, receipts, cosmetics, daily medications, and address book can be kept at hand in case they are needed during the trip. The baby's pacifier, a travel sewing kit, or weather-related items like gloves or hat can be stowed in a pocket until needed.
5. Don't forget the snacks. Save money at the bus' usual stops by bringing along your own treats and refreshments. Bottled water, gum, fruit bars, juice cartons, an apple or orange, and other simple but healthy eatables can provide nourishment as you travel or between stops. Include a small plastic bag for litter, like orange peels, apple cores, or empty disposable containers.
Packing for a bus trip need not become a challenging ordeal. With a little forethought and organization, you can bring everything needed without going overboard and having too many things to carry. Make a list and check it before leaving for the bus terminal. Then climb aboard for the trip!
