Before You Go
Whether you're joining us for your first trip or you're a seasoned traveler, these simple tips can help you travel comfortably, stay organized, and make the most of your time away.
Getting Ready
Your main suitcase will travel in the luggage compartment underneath the motorcoach and may not be accessible until we reach our destination. Bring a small tote, backpack, or other carry-on with the things you may want during the ride:
Travel Tip: If you can't comfortably go several hours without it, put it in your bus bag—not your suitcase.
Comfort
It can be difficult to find one motorcoach temperature that's perfect for everyone. Dressing in layers lets you adjust throughout the day. A lightweight sweater or jacket is a good addition to your bus bag even when the weather outside is warm.
And don't forget comfortable shoes. Our trips often include opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, attractions, restaurants, and exploring on foot.
Peace of Mind
Medications, identification, glasses, hearing aids and other important or difficult-to-replace items should stay with you rather than in your checked luggage.
It's also a good idea to keep a current list of your medications and emergency contact information with you when traveling.
Stay Connected
Your phone can be one of your most useful travel tools—for photos, maps, weather, keeping track of the time and staying in touch. Start the day with a charged phone and consider carrying a small portable charger.
Travel Tip: Take screenshots of important information before leaving the hotel. You'll still have it handy even if your internet connection isn't cooperating.
Handy Reminders
After checking into your hotel, snap a quick picture of your room number. After a busy day of sightseeing, you'll be surprised how easy it can be to remember the hotel but completely forget whether you're in room 312 or 321!
When you're dropped off at an attraction or sightseeing area, take a quick photo showing where the motorcoach is parked—or photograph a nearby landmark. When it's time to return, you'll have a visual reminder, because "I'm pretty sure the bus was over here…" isn't the best way to end an afternoon of sightseeing.
Just in Case
A luggage tag on the outside is important, but tags can occasionally become damaged or separated from luggage.
Put a card or piece of paper inside your suitcase with your name and cell phone number. If your luggage becomes separated from you, there will be another way to identify its owner.
Plan Ahead
The forecast you checked before leaving home may have changed. Check the local weather each morning before heading out for the day's activities. It can help you decide whether you need that umbrella, jacket, sunscreen—or all three!
Good to Know
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some smaller bills can still be handy for tips, small purchases or places where using a card isn't convenient. You don't need to carry a large amount—just enough for those little situations where cash is easier.
Traveling Together
Part of the fun of group travel is traveling together. A few simple courtesies make the ride more enjoyable for everyone:
A little courtesy goes a long way when we're sharing the road together.
A Friendly Reminder
When you're traveling with a group, being on time matters. If the motorcoach is scheduled to leave at 8:00 AM, that's the time we're pulling away—not the time to start heading toward the bus. Returning a few minutes early gives you time to get settled and helps keep the day's itinerary running smoothly. Thirty people shouldn't have to wait for one!
One Last Tip
Motorcoach travel isn't only about getting from one destination to another. Talk to someone new. Look out the window. Take pictures. Try something you've never tried before. Laugh. Explore. And don't worry about doing absolutely everything.
Some of the best travel memories come from the little moments you never planned.
Great People. Great Places. Lasting Memories.
That's what Southland Travel Club is all about.
Take a look at our upcoming departures across the U.S. and Canada.