For some travelers, taking a long haul bus conjures up images of excruciating misery due to confined legs, lack of sleep or a sore neck. Many travelers don’t look forward to taking long haul bus trips. However, if you’re in South America, the distances between countries are rather sizeable. Sometimes the only way to get to some cities is by bus. It’s not like Europe or Southeast Asia where you can easily get between cities by train or cheap flights.
Contrary to what some may think, in South America the long haul buses in South America can be quite comfortable. Many have reclining seats, air conditioning, and some even include drinks, snacks and films to watch.
If you are traveling through South America, here are 10 tips to help you have enjoyable long haul bus experiences.
#1 – Pick a Reputable Bus Company
The goal is to find a reputable company with a good safety record. Talking to locals is a good place to start. Ask around and ask several people. If the name of the same company keeps up over and over again, that is usually a good sign.
While the companies with poorer safety and security records are often cheaper, keep in mind that money will be made up somewhere. Don’t risk being a victim or putting yourself at risk. Don’t hesitate to pay the price for safety.
#2 – Choose Your Seat for Comfort and Views
Part of the reason for taking a bus is to be able to see the country’s landscapes and smaller towns and villages. Having a window seat and nice view makes all the difference. When buying your ticket, ask the attendant if they have your preferred seat available.
Many bus companies offer a variety of seating options. The cheapest option will be your average bus seat. A slightly more expensive seat is what’s known as “semi-cama” (cama meaning bed in Spanish) which means you’ll be able to recline slightly more and have space to rest your feet. The best and most expensive option is known as “cama” where you can recline to a comfortable position, almost as if you were lying in a bed. These seats are often much wider as offer the best chance of sleeping. They typically come with a personal entertainment system and free Wi-Fi on board.
Consider the distance you’re traveling and time of day and book your seat accordingly.
# 3- Layer up for All Temperatures
Prepare for all temperature ranges in the bus. The air conditioning units are typically blasting regardless of the temperatures outdoors. Dress in layers. Wear long pants. Zip-off pants preferably where you can transform them into shorts and are adaptable for any temperature. Wear real shoes with socks and a warm jacket. Better yet, bring a blanket with you.
Some buses will offer blankets. If that is the case, take it, it’s probably a good sign of what’s to come.
#4: Protect Against Theft
Unfortunately, baggage theft isn’t uncommon on long haul buses. Don’t leave anything too valuable in your large checked bag that is usually carried underneath the bus. Keep your electronics, cash, credit cards and passport on you or in your carry-on bag Stash your carryon bag underneath your feet and keep it locked.
Generally speaking, the mid-range to top-end bus companies tend to be more trustworthy, but you never want to leave anything to chance. Keep everything locked and your valuables under your watchful eye.
In Argentina, Peru and Chile it is common practice to tip the baggage handlers. Keep a couple of pesos in the local currency handy.
#5: Pack Your Own Toilet Paper
Assuming you’re on a bus from a reputable company, you’ll likely have a toilet available. Depending on the distance you are traveling, you bus may also make bathroom breaks along the way. The one thing you don’t want to be stuck without is toilet paper.
Do yourself a favor and carry toilet paper. In South America, this rule applies to way more than bus travel.
#6: Carry Snacks and Water
When you are buying your bus ticket, be sure to ask if food is served. If the bus company provides snacks (or food in the more expensive cama level) don’t expect healthy and balanced meals. Most of the food is heavy on sugar and fat. If you want something a little healthier, be on the safe side and pack your own treats.
You’ll also want to bring plenty of water onboard. Some buses will give you a bottle of water, but it is often a small bottle and certainly not enough for an 6+ hour bus trip. Be on the safe side and carry your own snacks and water.
#7 – Travel with Local Currency
For your long haul bus trips, be prepared with cash and in the local currency. If you’re traveling to a different country, try and have the local currency of that country as well
Carrying cash will help you buy food along the way, as most places don’t take credit cards. Using public bathrooms at stops along the way, also require payment in cash. By having enough local currency for a couple of meals and transportation for when you arrive, you’ll avoid the “is there an ATM” headache.
#8 – Plan for Your Own Entertainment
Don’t expect to have internet connection on the buses. Even the ones that claim they have one, the service is often shoddy at best. Prepare for your trip some form of entertainment. Whether it’s games, music, podcasts or books, it’s nice to have a variety to choose from.
#9 Charge up All Your Electronics Before Your Trip
There’s nothing more disappointing than getting on a long bus ride only to find that your smartphone or Kindle are just minutes away from powering down. You may also want your to keep your camera powered up as the scenery along the way can be pretty spectacular.
Check all your electronics before leaving, so they’ll be ready for that moment when you just don’t feel like chatting with seat mate anymore.
#10 – Pack your Earplugs
Action movies are a South American favorite in the buses. The volume is loud and blaring in Spanish. Often times, the movies play back to back. If you want to sleep, read or simply look out the window and enjoy the spectacular beauty, be sure to pack a pair of ear plugs.
So, get on board the bus, settle in, and enjoy the ride!
