Travelling by bus with children: practical tips
A trip with a child is the same trip, just with twice as much preparation. Here are a few practical tips to make the journey more predictable.
Plan your seats in advance
If the carrier offers a seat map, book seats together straight away — adjacent seats may be gone by departure day. Seats towards the front sway less, which matters for children who get travel sick.
Documents for your child
Document requirements for children depend on the route: they differ significantly between domestic and international trips, and crossing a border without both parents may require additional permissions. Check the requirements for your route in advance — with the carrier or official sources.
Child fares
Some carriers offer discounts for children — the terms and eligible ages vary from carrier to carrier. Check the conditions for your specific trip when booking.
What to pack for your child
- A favourite toy or book — familiar things soothe better than new ones.
- Snacks that aren’t a sugar bomb: fruit, crackers, water.
- A tablet with downloaded cartoons, plus headphones.
- Wet wipes — lots of wet wipes.
- A change of clothes in your carry-on, not in the suitcase.
On the road
Plan activities in 30–40 minute blocks: a game, a cartoon, a snack, a nap. At stops, let your child stretch their legs — five minutes of running around in the fresh air saves an hour of fussing on the bus.
Most importantly, allow extra time for everything. With children, everything takes a little longer — and that’s perfectly normal.
See the available routes and book online — your e-ticket arrives by email.
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