Tips for surviving express bus tours

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By definition, an express tour is any bus tour that lasts 24 hours or longer without a hotel stay. Express tours offer a great opportunity to visit places in a short time frame that you otherwise might not get to see. But they can be demanding given the long rides and ambitious itineraries they follow. Here are 11 tips to help you survive an express tour:

1. Read about the destination before you depart. This will enhance your travel experience and prepare you to stake out what interests you.

2. Nap and shower before the tour. You’ll feel refreshed and increase your energy level throughout the tour.

3. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Dressing in layers provides flexibility on and off the bus. The weather changes quickly in Europe, so be prepared.

4. Bring a pillow and light blanket. It’s hard to regulate the temperature on tour buses. A blanket will help regulate your body temperature and provide comfort. A small pillow gives extra cushion for your head and helps prevent neck aches.

5. Bring snacks. Some express tours have late lunch breaks. Sandwiches, trail mix, granola bars, fruit and chips are all good snack foods. Don’t bring greasy, smelly food that can anger bus drivers and offend other passengers.

6. Bring a bottle of water. Long bus trips can be dehydrating, and water is the best thirst quencher.

7. Bring entertainment. Books, games, and movies can help make a long, monotonous bus ride enjoyable. If the entertainment involves sound, bring headphone so you don’t disturb others on the bus.

8. Be patient and considerate. Remember, you’re spending 24 hours with about 40 people, most of whom you don’t know. Like you, these folks are on the tour to enjoy themselves. Most express tours are fully booked, so if you’re a single traveler, you may be sharing a seat with someone.

9. Be positive and expect the unexpected. Go with the flow and understand that anything can happen, from traffic jams and poor weather conditions to lost travelers and crowded rest stops.

10. Listen to the tour guide and bus driver. They are the professionals and it’s their jobs to make your tour enjoyable and memorable. If you have a problem or request, talk to the tour guide.

Express tours can take you to places you’ve read about and dreamed of without taking too much of your time and money. They can also give you the confidence to return to these places on your own. If you follow the above tips, you can count on creating positive memories that will last a lifetime.

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