coach travel when it's hot

[foxtiger]

I have to make a long coach journey (and back again a few days later) in the middle of this heatwave. Don't want to wear short shorts or strappy tops as (1) they don't suit me and (2) I'm visiting elderly relatives who will probably find them very undignified. How do I keep cool, uncrumpled and granny-friendly?

I've never been on a coach that's not got air con. You would probably be cold in a strappy top and shorts anyway.

Linen is cool and looks better if it's a bit crumpled, you can get it cheap in lots of shops, take footspray, facewipes and tissues, lots of water to drink, the coaches are usually air conditioned, keep the curtain closed on the coach, book a seat away from the engine and wheels, sunglasses and a hat. Take your shoes off on the coach, make sure you wiggle your legs and feet about, my recent coach trip was really good, larger seat than on the train, air con, quiet. How long is your trip. I'd wear loose linen trousers or cropped, sleeveless linen top or a really thin cotton baggy top, you can find loads in Primark, Asda are good for cheapo linen.

Freeze a bottle of water to take with you. It'll keep the water nice and cold.

Ooh nice idea bout the frozen water, thanks bluebell !

hippie I've been on coaches where the AC wouldn't come on and some where it wouldn't turn off! I'll be taking something like a big thin scarf for the latter possibility, it's the former I'm more worried about.

ManFlu about 7 hours each way, 8 with stops which will be bliss! - one way won't be quite as bad because part of it is very early in the morning, the other way could be a nightmare, but your tips all sound great, thanks. I have a couple of pairs of loose, linen trousers but had thought the crumpling would be an issue. Maybe not!

What about one of those battery hand held fans or a fan. 7 hours, wow, make sure you eat, drink and move about and take some bottom wipes, the toilets on board can get a little stinky.

ManFlu I do own a "traditional" fan - I bought it because it was beautiful, but it would be nice to get some actual use out of it!

Just make sure you don't leave it behind. If you're going national express they have free wi fi and free movies but you have to sign up and sign in before you board the coach which I didn't know so couldn t use either.

A thin scar for air con?! It can be really, really cold on the National Express. I'd need thick tights, a jumper and jacket.