Complete Guide on How To Sleep on a Burbank Charter Bus

With cushioned reclining seats, personal climate controls, and plenty of room to stretch out, a charter bus rental can be one of the most comfortable ways to travel long distances across California. But if you’re like many passengers and find it tough to sleep on moving vehicles, there are some easy things you can do to help yourself relax, unwind, and even drift off for a nap.

Charter Bus Rental Burbank has more than 10 years of experience helping groups across Southern California get around in comfort and style. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions, help plan your itinerary, and offer tips for making your ride as enjoyable as possible. Below, we’ve rounded up our top advice for sleeping comfortably on a charter bus—whether you’re headed from Burbank to San Francisco or just taking a quick shuttle from the airport to downtown Los Angeles. If you have any questions about booking a bus, call 747-588-6340 anytime!

Quick Answer: Follow These Tips For Great Sleep!

Before your trip, check with our reservations team to make sure you’ve booked a charter bus or minibus that includes all the amenities you need for rest and relaxation. Full-size charter buses (40-56 passengers) often come with plush reclining seats, extra legroom, individual reading lights, power outlets for charging devices, and strong air conditioning so everyone stays cool and comfortable. Smaller minibuses (15-35 passengers) may have similar features but on a more compact scale—perfect for shorter trips or smaller groups.

If anyone in your group has accessibility needs, ask about ADA-compliant buses that include wider aisles, wheelchair lifts, and designated spaces for mobility devices. The more comfortable your bus, the easier it will be to settle in for a nap while on the road.

Wear Soft, Breathable Layers

What you wear on the bus can make a big difference in how easily you fall asleep. We recommend dressing in soft, loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive, such as stiff jeans, belts, or clothing with scratchy tags.

Since the temperature inside the bus can fluctuate, especially if other passengers have different preferences for the AC, dress in layers. Bring a light sweater or zip-up hoodie that you can easily take off or put on as needed. Some people also like to pack a small blanket or shawl for extra warmth during overnight journeys.

Bring Your Own Comfort Items

Small personal items can go a long way toward helping you relax and fall asleep on a bus. Consider packing an inflatable neck pillow or a small travel pillow to support your head and neck. An eye mask can block out bright lights from passing traffic or overhead fixtures, while noise-canceling headphones or earplugs will muffle conversations and engine sounds.

If you’re sensitive to smells, bring along a soothing essential oil roller (like lavender) to dab on your wrists or temples. Some riders also swear by compression socks to improve circulation during long periods of sitting. Whatever helps you feel at home and cozy, don’t hesitate to toss it in your carry-on bag.

Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart

No one sleeps well when they’re hungry or dehydrated, but eating the wrong foods before or during a bus ride can leave you feeling bloated or jittery. Pack a reusable water bottle to sip throughout the journey, refilling it at rest stops whenever possible. Avoid large amounts of caffeine, which can disrupt your sleep cycle, and skip sugary sodas that may cause an energy crash later.

For snacks, choose light, non-perishable options that won’t make a mess or bother your seatmates with strong odors. Think granola bars, trail mix, crackers, apples, or baby carrots. If your bus has an onboard restroom, staying hydrated is even easier—you won’t need to worry about waiting until the next scheduled stop.

Pick a Prime Seat Location

If seating isn’t assigned, try to claim a spot near the middle of the bus for the smoothest ride. The front can be noisy due to doors opening and closing, while the back tends to bounce more over bumps and curves. Window seats give you something to lean against and minimize the chances of being jostled by passengers walking down the aisle.

Once seated, adjust your chair to its most reclined position (without bothering the person behind you), and use your pillow and blanket to create a nest-like environment. Let your fellow passengers know you plan to rest, so they can avoid waking you unnecessarily.

Limit Screen Time Before Sleeping

It’s tempting to scroll through social media or watch movies on your phone during a long bus ride, but the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your body’s production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. About 30 minutes before you want to nap, put away electronic devices and opt for analog activities like reading a book, writing in a journal, or listening to calming music or a podcast with your eyes closed.

If you must use a device, dim the screen as much as possible and consider downloading a blue light filter app. Many charter buses now offer individual USB ports or outlets to keep your gadgets charged, so you can still have them nearby for after your rest.

Get Up and Stretch During Stops

Sitting for hours without movement can lead to stiffness, cramps, or even more serious issues like blood clots. Whenever the bus makes a scheduled stop—whether it’s for fuel, meals, or sightseeing—take advantage of the opportunity to stand up, walk around, and do some gentle stretches. Roll your shoulders, twist your torso, touch your toes, or do a few calf raises to get your blood flowing.

Even if you only have a few minutes, this brief activity can help prevent soreness and make it easier to relax once you return to your seat. Encourage your fellow travelers to join you—group stretches can become a fun ritual on longer journeys.

Plan Ahead for Restful Travels

Sleeping comfortably on a charter bus is entirely possible with a little preparation and the right mindset. By choosing a well-equipped bus, dressing appropriately, bringing comfort items, staying hydrated, picking a good seat, limiting screen time, and stretching regularly, you’ll set yourself up for a restful and enjoyable ride.

If you’re organizing a multi-day trip and know you’ll be spending several nights on the road, let Charter Bus Rental Burbank know your priorities when requesting a quote. We can help you select the best vehicle for overnight travel and even suggest itineraries with hotels or rest stops where you can get a full night’s sleep in between bus rides.

Whether you’re shuttling a film crew to a shoot in Hollywood, taking a school group to Disneyland, or embarking on a corporate retreat to Palm Springs, our goal is to make every mile as comfortable as possible. Call 747-588-6340 today to discuss your upcoming trip and learn more about our customizable charter bus rentals.