BUS TIPS
Hard candy and chewing gum help the ears and throat.
On stops go for a walk or jog around the bus
Be sure to have a pillow and blanket and change of clothes for bed. A thin foam or strip of carpet underlay is also helpful (but keep it 2 inch thick or less - or it won’t fit in the overhead compartments).
Know the kids by name before we arrive in the US.
Don't feel guilty for getting sleep or finding a comfortable spot to sleep.
Bring cards, music, or something to read to help pass the time.
There is a bunk in the back of each bus for the bus drivers. Please help to keep kids away from the bunk, and keep the noise down while a driver is trying to sleep.
NO students movies or music is to be played over the bus system. We will provide each bus with music and movies.
Keep your carry-on to a minimum - the overhead compartments are small and so is the space underneath your seat. Make sure you have all that you need in you carry-on as we will not be allowed to access our suitcases until we arrive at the hotel Saturday night (ie. Beach stuff, change of clothes, etc.)
Pack your ID and some Canadian and US money in your carry-on.
US prepaid visa cards are awesome (Air Canada AC Conversion Card)
https://www.cibc.com/en/personal-banking/prepaid/ac-conversion-card.htmlTry and spread the staff throughout the bus, making sure that there is at least one staff at the back of the bus.
Bring a travel mug and a water bottle with a screw top lid. To-go cups are not allowed on the bus.
OTHER TIPS
Try and hang out with kids as much as possible.
To ensure confidence, always act like you know what you’re doing. If you are confident and ready to make a plan for the day, your kids will want to hang out with you.
Download the apps to the various theme parks, this will help you out.
First Aid kits will be kept on each bus, and in the head nurses room once we’re in California. If you need anything for yourself or one of your kids talk to the medical staff on your bus. We strongly discourage kids to bring or take medicine without informing the medical staff on their bus.
Our biggest medical problem is usually sun burns. You can help by keeping an eye on your kids, and STRONGLY encouraging them to apply sun screen regularly.
Take care of yourself on the trip. We recommend that you take an hour of personal time each day.