10 SECRETS THAT WİLL MAKE YOU COMFORTABLE BUS TRAVEL

1. Know your seat count
The sleeper bus seating arrangement typically features 25 pairs of seats. And since seating is first-come, first-serve, you’ll want to figure out where you stand as soon as you queue up. If you have the choice, note that seats located towards the rear of the bus will make for a bumpier ride, while being in the front may be more distracting. Sitting in the middle should ensure optimal comfort and maximize your chances of sleeping through the night. Plus, we hear it’s the safest place to sit on a bus.

Insider tip: If you show up last minute and there’s a large crowd boarding your bus, ask the driver or gate agent if they’re planning on sending out a second night bus. This happens very frequently for popular routes and times. And when it does, you can be the first one on that shiny new sleeper bus and you can pick your favorite seat.

2. Take the window seat… And bring a pillow!
If your head is bobbing up and down or if you keep falling asleep on your neighbor’s shoulder, you won’t be well-rested when you reach your destination. To get a good night’s sleep on the bus, it’s best to bring a travel pillow. Inflatable pillows are awesome as they take up very little space in your luggage, but you can always go precious and opt for memory foam—or even use a bulky sweater to bundle up and rest your head. Wedge the pillow of your choice between the seat and the window and rest your head against it, preventing the dreaded head conk against the glass, instead replacing it with cushioned slumber goodness. Plus, you’ll avoid neck pain upon awakening!

Some windows can have a greasy border by the AC vents, so if that’s the case, snug a bag (like the one used to store your pillow in) on the window frame to cover the lubricant, and then rest the pillow on top in the wedged position.

Insider tip: If ever you can’t fall asleep, the bus’s windows offer great vistas at night, so riding the overnight bus won’t be a total loss.

3. Choose your carrier
Not all sleeper buses are created equal, and not all carriers run all hours. Sometimes, cheaper is better—but in other cases, it’s best to pick according to comfort. In any case, Busbud is here to help you compare options.

North America:
FlixBus: The overnight Flixbus is pretty good because you can buy snacks and drinks on board. Plus, buses are equipped with outlets and Wi-Fi and there’s a bathroom on board.
Greyhound: The Greyhound overnight bus is usually an appealing budget option for overnight travel, and they have a lot of routes running frequently. Lights are pleasantly dimmed at night-time, to promote a relaxed atmosphere and seats have individual power outlets.
NY Trailways: Not all buses are equipped with outlets, but the legroom is decent and ambient temperature is usually on point.
Europe:
National Express: The National Express overnight bus/coach includes a generous luggage allowance, on top of your “carry-on” bag. Their night buses are quite comfortable and you’ll enjoy sufficient legroom and handy USB ports.
Ouibus/BlaBlaBus: The BlaBlaBus overnight buses are probably the most comfortable in Europe. With reclining seats, adjustable footrests, individual lighting, and air conditioning for as well as plug sockets and free, limited Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep on their buses.
FlixBus: Same as in North America, FlixBus overnight buses offer snacks and drinks to buy on board. Their seats might not be as comfortable as BlaBlaBus or National Express, but their prices are usually lower.
4. Know your itinerary
You can easily book the first bus you find online, but if you want to get some good shut-eye, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting on a night bus that will make as few stops as possible. Every time the bus stops, you run the risk of the driver turning on the lights and announcing the location, which is great for those about to sleep through their stop, but not so good for those of you trying to get maximum dream time. You can always check the stops and transfers on Busbud, so make sure to take the departure with the least stopping.

Insider tip: Bring an alarm clock, in case you have to wake up before the overnight bus reaches its final destination. If you’re stressed out about missing your bus stop, you’ll most likely wake up every fifteen minutes or worse, miss your stop altogether! Set your alarm clock, watch or smartphone to wake you up 15–20 minutes before you reach your destination. And, if you’ve got a nice neighbor, play safe and kindly ask them to wake you, too.

5. Pad your back & remove your shoes




6. Pick your pants wisely


7. Block out the outside world


8. Pack a snack & stay hydrated


9. Hide your prized belongings


10. Snuggle under a blanket