How to find and book overnight bus trips?
Overnight bus journeys are an economical option for you to save on hotel costs at destinations. But, finding suitable overnight buses and booking these long-haul trips has some nuances. Begin by searching popular overnight bus routes spanning 8-12 hour duration. Longer routes have higher chances of delays and discomfort. Check reviews of operators servicing such routes for fleet quality, punctuality, and amenities like blankets, and charging points provided on these overnight trips. Tie-ups with premium chains ensure better buses and facilities.
Compare bus types & prices
Overnight buses come in variants like sleeper, semi-sleeper, and seater configurations in AC and non-AC types. Scan all options on your route for several stops, seat layout, and occupancy. Sleeper and semi-sleeper buses promote better sleep during travel with reclining berths, limited seats, and curtains. Compare prices across operators and bus kuala lumpur to genting types matching your comfort needs before booking. Shell out a little extra for a better resting experience.
Insist on safety features
Don’t just prioritize cost, and comfort while overlooking safety. Scan seat belts available for all passengers and in working order, fire extinguishers inside the bus, emergency exit access, and staff assistance promised through the night. Background check the driver’s license and track record of the operator. See their ratings across these parameters. Double-decker coaches compromise on stability and emergency response to avoid despite cheaper costs.
Carry essentials & medicines
Carry a light blanket, neck pillow, and sleep mask to tune out light and noise for better sleep. Have motion sickness or headache medicines if needed. Pack headphones, fully charged power banks, and entertainment downloads on the device for the long journey. Avoid carrying too many bags or heavy luggage. Have light snacks to tide hunger pangs at odd hours. Wear loose comfy clothing suitable for sleeping. But carry an extra sweater or jacket to handle AC temperature fluctuations at night. Have minimal valuables – just IDs, money, essential cards. Use secured pockets and handbags. Earphones and chargers tend to slip between seats. Use cases to stow gadgets post-use. Avoid leaving belongings unattended when taking short breaks.
Check seat numbers
Don’t forget to tally seat numbers against boarding passes during entry. Memorise seat location details available during selection to spot them quickly inside. Buses have no signages for seat numbering and finding assigned seats in darkness causes delays. Upholstery color coding between the lower and upper deck makes locating tricky. Confirm with staff if struggling. Inconveniences like snoring co-passengers, and babies crying are common. Avoid picking fights over minor issues that staff have little control over. Cooperate if asked to exchange seats for emergencies like pregnant women needing better access. Be prepared for annoyances or schedule changes and exercise patience.
Have backup plans
Despite best planning, overnight buses face bigger risks of accidents, and health emergencies due to long hours of continuous driving. Though rare, be prepared for contingencies by having a Plan B – contacts of local partner hospitals, alternative transport options like trains or rental vehicles, and emergency numbers handy. Avoid total dependence on bus operators for assistance by arming with backups. Just be ready for minor uncertainties and you will find overnight travel an affordable means to explore places.