Transportation Safety Tips

Safety and etiquette are as important during transportation as they are throughout student and youth travel. Before you go—on the road and in the air—consider these transportation-related tips and share them with your young travelers. Enlist your chaperones’ support in reinforcing rules and reminders.

On the Motorcoach

• Be respectful of the motorcoach driver, who is an integral part of your travel team.
• Learn the driver’s rules for the bus and ensure your group follows them.
• Follow all safety instructions provided by your driver.
• Remain seated when the motorcoach is moving. If supplied, wear seat belts.
• Ensure everyone knows the location of any emergency exits.
• Baggage, backpacks, and other items should not block aisles or stairwells.
• If stowing items overhead, ensure they are secure. Do not stow heavy items overhead!
• Keep an open seat near the front of the coach, should someone feel ill or need assistance.
• Never leave valuables unattended on the coach.

At the Airport / On the Plane

• Do not joke about safety and security.
• Be respectful of airline staff. Always have proper ID and boarding passes available.
• Stand quietly in line and be respectful when working with or talking to TSA representatives.
• Know what is and is not allowed in luggage, to avoid delays, confiscation, or worse.
• Be mindful of others throughout the airport. Do not be loud or run around.
• In the gate area, be sure items do not block paths or prevent people from sitting.
• Pay attention to airline staff and follow their instruction as you prepare to board.
• If anyone needs additional assistance, ensure they know when and how to board.
• Carefully stow items in the overhead bin, if too large to fit under the seat in front of you.
• Listen to and follow instructions from the pilots and flight crew.
• Stay seated. Keep your seat belt fastened unless otherwise noted.
• Refrain from disruptive behavior and do not bother other passengers or crew.

Patience and politeness go a long way in making travel safer and more pleasant for everyone involved.

Written by Amy L Charles, Editorial Director for Teach & Travel.
This article originally appeared in Teach & Travel.