Whether you’re travelling by plane, train, car or boat – being comfortable as a plus size traveller is definitely a priority. There have been several occasions on my blog where I’ve talked about my top tips for long-haul flights, so I thought it was about time I shared my tips for long journeys by car, bus or van.
If you have been following me for a while then you will know that recently I went on an American road trip with Trek America. Although a lot of the journeys were only 2-3 hours, there were a number of occasions where we were travelling for up to 8 hours. Similarly, I have done coach journeys that are close to 16 hours altogether.
As much as I’d love to tell you it is easy as a plus size traveller, that is definitely not the case. The seats can be uncomfortably small, it can be hard to sit in one position for long periods of time and you might find yourself struggling with those around you. Whilst I can’t fix any of the above, I can give you my top tips to help make the experience as comfortable as it can possibly be:
Wear Comfortable Clothing
One of my top tips when it comes to long journeys as a plus size travel is to make sure you’re wearing something comfortable to travel in. Usually, I’ll wear an incredibly loose fitted dress or t-shirt with cosy 3/4 length leggings. Although I’ll rarely need it, I’ll have a jacket with me in case I get cold. When it comes to shoes, my Van’s or Converse are my go-to choice. Travel can make me quite warm, so I tend to wear layers that I can easily remove if I need to.
Sit In The Seat That Is Going To Be The Most Comfortable For You
Although you may not always have control over where you sit, sitting in the seat you know is going to be the most comfortable for you can really help. Whether that means sitting in a seat with extra legroom, reserving a window seat or sitting in a solo seat, you need to do what is best for you. If don’t have control over where you’re sitting, try to arrive as early as you possibly can so you can be on the first people on the bus/coach. Often people will understand and give you an accessible seat, especially if you’re open and honest.
Take Regular Breaks And Plan In Rest Stops
If you’re in control of your schedule, you need to ensure you’re taking regular breaks. Whether that means taking a five-minute break to stretch your legs and go to the bathroom or you’re breaking for lunch, the more breaks you have the better. Sitting in one position for a long period of time can be seriously uncomfortable, so don’t feel bad if you have to make regular stops to help ease the pain.
Factor In Time For Unplanned Stops
If you find you’re really struggling with the distance you might find it useful to take an unplanned break, even if it is just for five or ten minutes. If you’re on a strict schedule when it comes to your arrival time, you need to ensure you’re factoring in a little bit of contingency time to account for these stops.
Find Ways To Stay In Control Of The Temperature Inside
One of the worst things about travelling on a coach or bus is that 90% of the time you’re not in control of the temperature. Although you may have an air conditioning unit above you, often they’re not powerful enough to keep you cool. My best tip would be to take a small portable fan with you to help cool yourself down if needed.
Make Sure You Have Plenty Of Water
If you’re travelling long-distance it’s important you’re staying hydrated, especially if you’re travelling in warm weather. Make sure you’re packing your water bottle and take the opportunity to fill it up at rest stops. You’ll be incredibly thankful for it!
Take Pain Medication If Needed
Finally, I always find it helpful to pack pain medication just in case I need it. I find that my knees really suffer if I’m sitting in the same position for long periods of time so having anti-inflammatories with me really helps. Although I don’t need it every time, it has helped ease some unbearable journeys in the past.
What are your top tips for plus size travellers travelling on long journeys? Did I miss anything off the list? Let me know!