The Ultimate Packing Guide for Long Bus Rides

BLOG | March 12, 2020

Ultimate Packing Guide - Long Bus Rides

You already know that Swift Charters is the answer to all of your transportation-related questions such as “What’s the best bus company in Chicago?” / “Where to find a charter bus in the area?” / “How to book a long bus ride for groups?” and similar. Well, since you’re familiar with the always fantastic bus charter services that you can book for various different occasions, why not take a couple of minutes to read what exactly you should bring on your long-distance bus rides near Chicago

Since your luggage will be in the underbelly compartment in order to save the space inside the bus and provide more comfort to the passengers, you should know what to keep in a smaller bag with you during the entire trip. 

Swift Charters’ team is there to share with you 10 things you need to pack for long trips on a bus, so let’s begin!



1. Thin Blanket and/or Large Scarf

AC isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and some people get chilly very easily. While it’s very difficult to guess which temperature inside the bus is the best for all passengers, a nice piece of advice is to pack a thin blanket and bring it with you inside the bus. In this way, even if you do get chilly, you can wrap yourself and be cozy while traveling. If you don’t have enough space for the blanket, and you usually aren’t cold but want to bring something “just in case,” a large, soft scarf is the best solution.



2. A Bottle of Water

Well, this one is obvious, but some people forget it anyway. Keeping hydrated while traveling is very important because you share a small space with a lot of people, and hydration is one of the crucial things to take care of your organism. Bring a reusable water bottle with you on your bus trip, and refill it with fresh water whenever you have the opportunity.



3. Snacks

While it’s true that during long trips you’ll have occasional breaks for eating, toilet, smoking, etc. it’s always the best solution to bring your own snacks on the bus and have something small for eating in case you get hungry. However, avoid bringing food that has a strong scent, or that’s too heavy because it won’t be a nice combination with traveling. 



4. Comfy Clothes

When it comes to being as cozy as possible during the long-distance Chicago rides, you should make sure to dress comfortably. Unless you’re traveling for business reasons and have a meeting as soon as you arrive, stretchy, soft clothes such as leggings, sweatpants, comfy t-shirts, and hoodies are always the best choice. 

Swift Charters’ buses in your vicinity are already super-cozy and enjoyable to drive in, dressing in stretchy clothes will only be a bonus. Having said that, you should also pack an extra outfit for any inconvenience that might happen. You may spill some water or stain your clothes with food. That’s why packing extra clothes doesn’t take up a lot of space, but it can be of big help.



5. Travel Pillow & Sleep Mask

Reclining seats that Swift Charters’ features are always perfect for both short and long trips and offer the best support to your entire body. Why not make this comfortable place even better by bringing a travel pillow with you for additional neck support. For overnight bus trips, it’s always recommended to try and get some sleep, that’s where sleep masks come in handy. Bring anything that won’t take up too much space, but that will provide the ultimate comfort so that your bus ride is as pleasant as possible.



6. Personal Hygiene Items

If something is a must for not only long-distance but also short-distance trips, it’s bringing items for personal hygiene. Even though all Swift Charters’ vehicles from the fleet are detailly cleaned on a daily basis and always in pristine condition, there are still going to be a lot of people in limited space, and that can be the cause of bacteria. 

Before entering the bus, make sure you pack the following items:


  • Tissues
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wipes
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste for long trips
  • Mouth wash 
  • Contact lenses supplies
  • Travel-size makeup remover
  • Sunscreen


  • 7. Entertainment/Technology
    Entertainment and Technology - Ultimate Packing Guide

    In order to make those long hours pass as quickly as possible, you should pack as many entertainment sources as possible. Don’t go overboard and overpack because that can be an inconvenience, but make sure to pack enough not to be bored. Other than bringing an interesting book or magazine, you can also pack a tablet or smaller laptop, as well as the charges. Swift Chartes’ buses feature free wifi so you won’t have trouble staying connected and watching a movie. Don’t forget the headphones as watching something without them is considered rude towards the rest of the passengers.



    8. Documents

    The best advice that Swift Charters’ team of bus rental Chicago experts can give you is to dedicate one pocket/compartment in your bag for your documents only. Other than bringing your original ID and passport, you should also make various copies of those documents just in case you lose the originals or they get stolen. Also, keep them easily reachable and bring them with you on the bus.



    9. Medications

    You should have your medications packed in the luggage, too, especially if you’re staying somewhere for more than a couple of days. However, some medications are a must to have with you on the bus as well. Make sure to pack motion sickness pills, pain reliever in case of a headache as well as antacids if the food you consume gives you any troubles. Of course, you need to bring the regular medications you generally use on a daily basis for a certain condition. 



    10. Weather-Related Items

    If the weather conditions dictate it, you should also pack an umbrella, rain jacket, gloves, or any other item that will be helpful against rain, snow, sun, and wind. 



    How to Hire a Chauffeured Motorcoach in Chicago?

    By relying on the best bus company in the area, of course! Swift Charters can provide the most efficient and comfortable long-distance bus services close to you, but that’s not all. 

    If you rely on this team, you can choose any group transportation service that will accommodate your travel needs. From the professional executive bus rides Chicago to the most elegant wedding and prom bus rentals, Swift Charters has everything you’ll ever need for top-notch and closest group bus rides.

    Give us a call or book on the website and enjoy the most secure bus tours close by, airport shuttle services Chicago as well as sports event transportation in the vicinity. Swift Charters team is waiting for your reservation!

    Keep in touch wherever you go