Discover essential tips for surviving long-distance overnight bus travel in India. Sleep well, save money, and explore more with our expert advice.
Bus
If you are travelling overland for long distances, an overnight bus can be a cost-effective way to travel. Although they may seem intimidating at first, you will save money on accommodation and have more time during the day to explore your destination.
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How can I sleep well?
Sometimes, you may be tempted by the idea of flying, but it's not always an option. If you are on a shorter trip, a lost day can add up quickly.
My top tips to survive a night bus, whether in India or elsewhere in the world. You can board with confidence so you arrive rested and ready to explore!
Tips to survive an overnight bus journey
1. Buy your tickets as soon as possible
Book your preferred seat as soon as you book bus ticket. You can log in to redBus to book tickets. Book a window seat for yourself. When I travel by bus, I get motion sickness at the rear. I try to book a seat near the front. The longest bus trip I took was 24 hours from Delhi to Patna. Any extra space on those trips is always appreciated!
2. Bring a pillow
Travel pillows are great for getting a good sleep on the bus. You'll also be able to sleep better on the bus. They are available in a variety of styles, so you can choose the one that suits you best!
3. Use a blanket and extra layers
It was freezing on my overnight bus ride from Varanasi to Agra. I had not prepared myself for the cold as we were going up in altitude. As I watched the locals jump on the bus and snuggle in with a warm blanket, I wished that I, too, had one.
There are also bus trips where the air conditioning could be turned down a little.
Bring a blanket and stay warm!
5. Always keep your valuables close to you
Keep your valuables close to you when riding a bus. Do not put your valuables in a separate luggage bag. Avoid placing your laptop under or overhand your seat.
Keep it close or keep the bag in which it is contained.
My daypack hugged me on my overnight bus trips. Wrap your arm or leg around the daypack. Take it with you if you need to leave the bus. Please do not leave it in a place where you cannot see it.
6. Download the route and destination map
Download an offline map to use before you travel. You may not always be able to get internet or reception. Sometimes it's useful to know where you are and the distance between your current location and your destination.
7. Bring snacks and water to stay hydrated
Bring along a bottle of water and plenty of snacks. You won't be able to stop at many places to buy supplies on overnight buses, so bring plenty of water, granola, and nuts.
8. Charge an extra battery pack
To conserve battery power, I often switch off my phone. If you plan to use it as entertainment, bring along a spare Battery Pack in case the phone charger is not working.
9. Bring wipes, toilet paper, and hand sanitiser
Even though I tried to avoid it, I had to use the toilet on a bus at least once. Bring your toilet paper as you can't rely on the availability of toilet paper.
10. Comfortable clothing is recommended
On long bus trips, I like to wear yoga pants or leggings. Thermals are my go-to clothing for altitude.
11. Bring extra change
In India, tipping the luggage handler was not common practice. Bring extra change to tip or purchase snacks from locals when the bus stops.
12. Bring a mask for your eyes and earplugs
Always a snorer. You will want to block out that noise. Eye masks are useful for blocking out street lights or when the sun is rising early in the day.
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