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For those who are not used to traveling, packing for a trip can cause panic. There are a lot of things that can go wrong but having the right accessories with you will make a huge difference.

Here are the best bus travel accessories that will be useful for every trip you embark on.

1. Portable Chargers

Whether we like it or not, we have all come to rely heavily on our cellphones. Aside from calling and texting, we also use it to browse the internet, check social media and listen to music or podcasts. This means that most of us are on our phones for hours a day meaning there’s a high chance that our phone batteries won’t last long. Having a powerless phone during long bus rides is a miserable thought which is why it is important to invest in a good portable charger to bring with you during your travels.

These chargers will also come in handy in charging other electronic gadgets like cameras and laptops that you carry with you.

2. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

Being connected to the internet is very important in our day to day lives especially while traveling. Most buses nowadays have WiFi but it is still nice to have a pocket WiFi just in case. A pocket WiFi is a small gadget that broadcasts internet to compatible devices around it. It is a good backup in case you are in a place with a weak connection.

3. Universal Adapter

There are a number of various types of power sockets that are commonly used in different areas. For this reason, a travel power adapter is one of the most handy accessories you can own especially if you often travel internationally.

Universal travel adapters will enable your devices to be plugged into the wall outlet of another country. Most travel adapters that you can buy nowadays are compatible in over 160 countries and have numerous USB slots which allows you to charge five devices simultaneously. One thing to remember when buying a travel adapter is that the device only converts the layout of the pins of your gadgets NOT the voltage that is produced by the power socket.

4. Neck Pillow

Sleeping while traveling on a bus comes with its challenges but with the right accessories, it is possible to get a good shut-eye. A travel neck pillow is one essential tool to have during travels because it is specially designed to support your neck and head in a natural position. Its sole purpose is to support the neck as well as cradle it, helping to be able to reduce neck and shoulder soreness. With a good neck pillow, sleeping while traveling won’t be difficult at all.

5. Noise Canceling Headphones

Noise cancelling headphones are headphones that reduce unwanted ambient sounds using active noise control. It is a handy gadget to have if you find it difficult to sleep because of the noise inside your bus. Active noise cancelling will help you isolate yourself from all the distractions around you.

6. Sleep Mask

Those who travel a lot, whether it be for work or for leisure, know the importance of sleep. The quality of sleep one gets from their travels can make or break a trip. This is where sleep masks come in handy.

Research has found out that wearing sleeping masks leads to higher quality of sleep that is less disrupted. Another study has revealed that sleeping in total darkness by using a sleep mask can increase the body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and helps decrease jetlag.

Needless to say, a sleep mask is an important thing to have while you are on a trip.

7. Travel Jacket

A travel jacket is a clothing item that will serve you well while on a trip. Aside from it can help you feel comfortable when it’s too cold inside the bus, a lot of travel jackets are also capable of storing small items in its pocket system. These pockets will allow you to keep your valuables with you no matter where you go without having to carry a bag. With a good travel jacket, you can keep your phone, wallet, and keys in your person at all times.

8. Light Blankets

A good travel blanket can significantly increase the quality of sleep while traveling on a bus. Get a blanket that is large enough to cover your legs and as much as your body as possible. Choose a fabric that feels cozy – the best ones for travel are light-weight fleece and cotton because they are breathable and fairly easy to wash.

9. Toiletry Organizer

A toiletry organizer is a portable container — usually a pouch with a drawstring or zippered closure — which holds body hygiene and toiletry supplies while travelling. Keep your toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, deodorant, nail clippers, tweezers, cotton swabs, soap, shampoo, and other hygiene supplies all in one place and look your best wherever you are. Make sure to choose one that is made out of durable material such as nylon, leather and other synthetic materials. It should also have pockets to store tiny items that could easily get lost such as pills and tablets.

10. Money belt

A money belt is exactly what it sounds like: a belt with a hidden pouch where you store your money. This is very effective in keeping your money safe from pickpockets and will bring you peace of mind knowing that your cash is hidden from sight. Thieves know all about money belts but it is highly unlikely that they would undress you just to get to your stashed cash.

Conclusion

A lot of frequent travelers advice to always pack light. But packing light doesn’t mean being underprepared.

Make sure to keep your things organized, bring sleeping essentials to guarantee that you are well rested for your journey, and keep yourself entertained by ensuring your electronic devices are always charged and ready.

If you are traveling in the Chicagoland Area, contact Chicago Motor Coach, Inc. at 847-260-9797. Chicago Motor Coach, Inc. is one of the most referred Bus Rental Companies in the Chicagoland Area, focused on group transportation. Let us know how we can help you.

You will be able to fully enjoy your destination if you plan ahead. Keep safe and happy travels!

Chicago has always been on the cutting edge of technology and architecture. From its vibrant culture, music, sports, and even politics, only a few other cities hold a candle to Chi-Town’s rich history and tradition. This is one of the reasons why over 50 million people travel to the city every year.

Indeed, there is no shortage of the magical experiences you encounter in The Windy City – but it doesn’t just end at the sights and attractions. Countless events are hosted in the city each year. Whether you’re planning a party, a wedding, or a convention, there’s a space in Chicago that’s happy to host your event.

Here are our top picks for some of the best event venues Chicago has to offer:

1. The Up Room at the Robey

The Up Room is an intimate rooftop parlor on the 13th floor of the Robey Hotel. It may be tiny, but it packs a view that is larger than life. Lying smack dab at the center of the Wicker Park neighborhood, The Up Room gives you a pure, unadulterated view of the Chicago skyline. This 1,198 square foot space fits up to 18 people for a seated function or up to 50 for a standing function.

Location: Wicker Park

Capacity: 55 Seated, 100 Standing

2. Cheney Mansion

The original structure was a 1920s English-style country mansion and was converted into a beautiful center for community events and private gatherings. It is located just nine miles from the downtown area and is nestled in the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District. This cozy former-residence has numerous rooms that can be adjoined or rented separately. The smallest room, the dining room, can hold up to 15 guests around a central table.

Location: Oak Park

Capacity: 175 Indoors, 300 Outdoors

3. OFFSITE

OFFSITE expanded to Chicago after its successful launch in New York. This private meeting and event space focuses on providing a high-tech environment to corporate events and is dedicated to making each gathering pleasant from brainstorming spaces whiteboard walls and 3D TVs to limitless supplies of coffee.

Location: West Loop

Capacity: 100

4. The Langham Chicago

This five-star hotel offers numerous event spaces that are perfect for any corporate event or gathering – 15,000 square feet of space. It has 14 event spaces in total, seven of which hold no more than 60 guests. These smaller rooms are perfect avenues for breakout sessions or small corporate meetings.

Location: River North

Capacity: Up to 356

5. The Metropolitan Club

The Willis Tower is located in the heart of downtown Chicago and is a focal point of the Chicago skyline. On its 66th and 67th floors lies a breathtaking event venue that can not only provide a breathtaking view but also an excellent fine-dining experience. Both floors include 16 private event spaces that can accommodate up to 400 guests.

Location: The Loop

Capacity: 240 Seated, 400 Standing

6. Moonlight Studios

Moonlight Studios fits right into the West Loop neighborhood’s many converted warehouse spaces. The space features exposed brick, a lofted ceiling, and industrial architectural design, giving Moonlight Studios a chic, urban vibe. The entire facility has an area of 15,000 square feet divided between multiple rooms.

Location: West Loop

Capacity: 310 Seated, 850 Standing

7. Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

This five-star hotel boasts more than 44,000 square feet of space. Within the establishment lies five types of venues and direct access to the largest convention center in North America, making this environmentally-friendly facility one of the best spaces for hosting events.

Location: South Loop

Capacity: 18,000

8. Adler Planetarium

The Adler Planetarium event space offers one of the most unique experiences in the city – an event under the stars. There are six spaces within the facility that offer this one-of-a-kind experience. Three are open-floor rooms, one is a terrace, and two are theaters. The entire museum can be rented out and offers a capacity of 1,200 reception style.

Location: Museum Campus

Capacity: Up to 600 Seated, Up to 1,200 Standing

9. Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel

The hotel boasts a clear view of the famous Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. But it has so much more to offer. It’s conveniently located five minutes from the Financial District, Millenium Park, and Navy Pier. It has numerous flexible meeting spaces spread out over thirteen rooms and over 28,000 square feet of area.

Location: Streeterville

Capacity: Up to 1,650 (Total)

10. Greenhouse Loft

The Greenhouse Loft is another one of Chicago’s many other loft venues. Repurposed from an old manufacturing facility, it exudes an urban atmosphere mixed with elegance while adding an impressive sustainability profile to the facility. This 3,600-square-foot facility can be subdivided into two separate spaces using the drapery and can accommodate up to 250 people.

Location: Avondale

Capacity: 175 Seated, 225 Standing

11. Row 24

Row 24 was designed to capture the class and elegance of the Motor Row era. The facility showcases 20-foot ceilings, exposed brick, vintage furniture, and mid-century chandeliers that beautifully captures the 1920s. The entire facility can hold 350 people for cocktails or 230 when seated.

Location: South Loop

Capacity: 230 Seated, 350 Standing

12. MCA Warehouse

The MCA Warehouse has had a colorful history as it once was a pie factory and then a Chinese bakery. But while it has seen many transformations, it remains to be a wonderful venue for hosting black-tie dinners and themed parties. It features various event places including an atrium, a terrace, and a sculpture garden with a view of majestic Lake Michigan.

Location: West Town

Capacity: 300 Seated, 570 Standing

13. Venue SIX10

Venue SIX10 offers a unique event space right beside the beautiful Grant Park. It is comprised of 4 private spaces with 12 meeting rooms. The facility boasts a modern aesthetic with plenty of glass and natural light, making it a perfect venue for weddings and corporate events.

Location: Grant Park

Capacity: 409

14. Revel Fulton Market

Revel Fulton Market used to be a dry storage facility in Chicago’s meatpacking district. Today, it is a far cry from what it used to be as it is now one of the larger venues in the city. This 30,000 square foot facility can accommodate 1,400 guests for various events such as corporate gatherings and conventions.

Location: West Fulton Market

Capacity: 850 Seated, 10,000 Standing

15. Fairmont Chicago

The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park Hotel offers pristine views of Lake Michigan and Millenium and Grant Parks. The hotel has a total area of 63,000 square feet spread across 15 meeting rooms and ballrooms, which has a total capacity of 2,000. Its rooms are intuitively designed to energize and rejuvenate guests during sessions, making it a perfect venue for corporate conferences and events

Location: Millennium Park

Capacity: 150

16. Navy Pier

boasts quite a large exhibition hall of 170,000 square feet. Its strategic location allows guests to have a 180-degree view of the lake and is an ideal location for business trade shows and conferences.

Location: East Grand Avenue

Capacity: Up to 1,400

The Best Way to Visit Chicago Event Venues

Chicago Motor Coach, Inc. is one of the most referred Bus Rental Companies in the Chicagoland Area. With 32 years of experience, we continue to take pride to serve each and every customer for a seamless and fun experience. The company can organize corporate transportation to a group of 20 and more people. Excellent service, high safety standards, punctuality, and customer care make us one of the best Chicagoland corporate transportation vendors.

For further questions, please contact us at 847-260-9797.
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10 Best Bus Travel Accessories