While a bus undoubtedly offers many advantages to its passengers, a smooth and comfortable night of sleep usually isn’t one of them. Let’s be honest, it’s tough to get the quality and quantity sleep you need anywhere other than your warm bed, but sleeping on the road can be particularly challenging.
Unfortunately, because extended bus trips and overnight buses are often the most efficient transportation options for travelers, you might be stuck with a bus seat as your bed for the night. Don’t worry though—if you use our tips to prepare yourself ahead of your ride, you’ll still be able to squeeze in a few hours of beauty sleep!
1) Pack for optimal comfort.
If you know you’re going to be sleeping on your bus ride, be sure to pack essential comforts that will help you settle in for some decent shuteye. A few of these key items will be a blanket, pillow or neck pillow, and an eye mask and earplugs (or headphones) to block light and sound.
You’ll also want to dress in layers, or at least bring a few, to prepare for changing temperatures. You might sweat as the sun hits you through the bus window during the day, but that AC will have you shivering at night!
2) Choose your seat wisely.
For the best sleep on a bus, try to get a window seat toward the middle of the vehicle. You’re more likely to feel every bump and pothole in the road sitting in the back. The front of the bus may be more disruptive to your senses with noise from the driver’s radio and bright headlights in oncoming traffic glaring through the windshield.
The window, of course, will provide you with some extra support so you can relax your body into a better sleep.
3) Secure your valuables.
The last thing you want to do is wake up from a few hours of bus sleep to find that somebody swiped your phone or expensive camera while you were out. Unfortunately, since you’re probably riding with strangers, you never know who around you might be tempted to steal something as you sleep.
Before you pull on that eye mask and pop those ear plugs in, stash your bag somewhere you know nobody can get to without waking you up in the process. Under your seat, by your feet, or even on your lap are all good places. It might also be a good idea to invest in a lock or special travel bag designed to keep the contents protected.
4) If you can, time your trip for better sleep.
If you have the flexibility to schedule your bus trip for any time of day, try to book a bus that is likely to be less crowded. Early morning and late at night will probably be your best bet, as there’s a better chance there will be fewer passengers and you’ll be able to spread out on multiple seats or even an entire row.
Overnight buses are also a good option for better quality sleep during extended travel. Since the timing syncs up with your body’s normal sleep schedule, it’ll be easier for you to fall and stay asleep. Plus, some overnight buses offer small bunks for their passengers, so you’ll be able to spend the night in an actual bed!
At Northwest Bus Sales, our buses are designed for safety, efficiency, and comfort. One of our luxury passenger coach buses would make the perfect addition to any company that offers short or long-term trips for travelers. Head over to our website to browse our full new and used bus inventory or give us a call to schedule an in-person visit to our sales yard!
