Navigating Long Distance BUS Trips in Thailand: Tips and Essentials
Traveling through Thailand by bus can be a rewarding experience, offering a glimpse into the local culture and the scenic landscapes, but it also requires some preparation and accommodation to ensure a comfortable journey. If you're planning a long-distance bus trip in Thailand, this guide will provide you with essential tips, advice, and necessary preparations to help you make the most out of your travel experience.
Understanding Your Journey: Warm Clothes and Necessary Preparations
The first thing you need to be aware of is the climate. Although photos might make it seem cooler inside the bus, the air conditioners can often make temperatures excessively low, even for a brief, initial look. Therefore, it's important to pack warm clothes to keep yourself comfortable during your journey. The temperature difference can be quite significant, so wearing layers is advisable.
Alternative Transportation Options: Is Bus Travel Worth It?
If you're planning to travel to Khao Lak for a multi-day liveaboard dive trip to the Similan Islands, you might want to consider opting for a more comfortable and efficient travel option. As tempting as it may be to take a long bus journey, it's often faster and more convenient to fly from Bangkok to Phuket, followed by a short drive to Khao Lak. A flight journey is typically under an hour and usually costs only slightly more than the bus ticket. Additionally, many liveaboard companies offer free pickup services from Phuket Airport, significantly reducing the hassle of a long bus journey.
Essential Items for Smooth Travel: Poolovers and Comfortable Clothing
If you decide to go with the bus, getting a poolover (a type of bag that can be used as a cushion) is a great idea. It can be stuffed with clothes from the top or one side of your backpack, helping you to keep your belongings safe and allowing you to use the bag as a pillow. This is particularly useful if you plan to catch some shuteye during the journey.
Managing the Journey: Sleeping Buses and Scheduled Stops
The best way to approach a long bus trip is to exhaust yourself to the point where you're practically ready to fall asleep at the onset of the journey. This strategy can make the trip much more manageable. Moreover, most 12-hour bus services in Thailand operate as sleeping buses, with companies providing excellent services, including meals and scheduled stops for refreshing yourself.
Surviving the Journeys: Practical Tips for Travelers
From my experience, traveling through rural India, similar long journeys in Thailand can be challenging but also worth it. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
Pillow and Comfort
Packing a pillow or using your backpack as a pillow is essential. The bus can be quite cramped, especially if you are taller than 59 inches. Consider bringing a standard-sized inflatable travel pillow for extra support and comfort.
Hydration and Diet
Bring plenty of water but be mindful of your fluid intake, especially if you have a tendency to experience discomfort from excess fluid in your bladder. Avoid drinking too much water close to meal times as it can cause unnecessary trips to the bathroom.
Alertness and Safety
Stay alert when the bus stops for food or bathroom breaks. Be quick and cautious, ensuring you get back on the bus in time. The driver needs to refuel and take a break, so don't let the bus leave you behind. A flashlight or a portable headlamp can be useful in reading and navigating in low light conditions.
Conclusion
While every travel journey comes with its challenges, a well-prepared trip by bus can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. Follow the above tips and you can significantly improve your comfort and enjoyment of long-distance bus trips in Thailand. Safe travels!