Cross-Border Bus Travel Guide

Planning international bus travel? Here's everything you need to know about documents, procedures, and requirements for crossing borders.

For EU Citizens:

• Valid passport or national ID card
• No visa required for travel within EU
• Health insurance card (EHIC) recommended
• Driver license for identification backup

For Non-EU Citizens:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Appropriate visa for destination country
• Return ticket or proof of onward travel
• Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds

Special Cases:

• Minors traveling alone need additional documentation
• Refugees and asylum seekers have specific requirements
• Diplomatic passport holders follow different procedures
• Dual citizens should carry both passports

Schengen Area Travel:

• Single visa covers 26 European countries
• 90 days in 180-day period for tourists
• Business visas available for work travel
• Transit visas for passing through only

Popular International Routes:

• London to Paris: Passport required, no visa for EU citizens
• Berlin to Prague: ID card sufficient for EU citizens
• Vienna to Budapest: Schengen area, minimal checks
• Amsterdam to Brussels: EU travel, standard ID acceptable

What to Expect:

• Document checks by border officials
• Possible luggage inspection
• Questions about travel purpose and duration
• Delays during peak travel times

Typical Process:

1. Bus stops at border control point
2. All passengers disembark with luggage
3. Present documents to border officials
4. Answer questions about your trip
5. Luggage may be inspected
6. Re-board bus once cleared

Duty-Free Allowances:

• Alcohol: Varies by country (typically 1-2 liters)
• Tobacco: Usually 200 cigarettes or equivalent
• Gifts: Up to €430 value for most EU countries
• Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000

Prohibited Items:

• Weapons and ammunition
• Illegal drugs and substances
• Counterfeit goods
• Certain food products (varies by country)
• Protected wildlife products

COVID-19 Considerations:

• Check current restrictions before travel
• Vaccination certificates may be required
• Testing requirements vary by destination
• Health insurance strongly recommended

General Health:

• Travel insurance covering medical emergencies
• Prescription medications in original containers
• Medical certificates for special conditions
• Emergency contact information

Money Matters:

• Euro accepted in most EU destinations
• Credit cards widely accepted
• ATMs available at major border crossings
• Exchange rates vary by location

Financial Documentation:

• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
• Bank statements if requested
• Travel insurance covering financial emergencies
• Emergency contact for financial assistance

Communication Tips:

• Learn basic phrases in destination language
• Translation apps can be helpful
• English widely spoken at major crossings
• Bus staff usually multilingual on international routes

Important Phrases:

• "I am a tourist" in local language
• "How long is the journey?"
• "Where is the restroom?"
• "I need help" for emergencies

Traveling with Pets:

• Pet passports required for EU travel
• Vaccination records must be current
• Health certificates from veterinarian
• Quarantine requirements vary by country

Business Travel:

• Business visa may be required
• Invitation letters from host companies
• Proof of business purpose
• Company identification and credentials

If Problems Arise:

• Your embassy/consulate in the destination country
• GoBusly customer service for travel assistance
• Local emergency services (112 in EU)
• Travel insurance provider for coverage issues

Important Numbers:

• European emergency number: 112
• GoBusly international support: +1-800-GOBUSLY
• Your travel insurance emergency line
• Embassy contact numbers for your nationality

International Travel Made Simple: Contact our international travel specialists for route-specific requirements and assistance with complex itineraries. Email international@gobusly.com for expert guidance.