Everything is sorted – your tour is booked and paid for, your visa has arrived in time (phew), and the only thing left to do is pack your bags! While packing may not always be fun, it is an inevitable part of any trip – no matter the destination.
Any seasoned traveller will tell you that planning thoroughly and getting organised are essential first steps in the packing process. We’ve asked our most experienced packers, the Expat Explore tour leaders, to share practical packing tips, tricks of the trade and cures for the over-packer.
Step 1: Get your bags sorted
“I am getting very excited for my upcoming trip! What kind of baggage do you recommend your travellers bring? The type with wheels or the ‘backpacking’ type?” – Expat Explore traveller
On Expat Explore coach tours your luggage may not weigh more than 20kg/44lb. Most of the time you are required to carry your luggage when on tour and not all hotels have elevators. We strongly recommend that you use a light suitcase and pack only what you can comfortably carry.
“Be realistic, keep it minimal and make life easier for yourself. It’s better to get by with what you have than to carry a heavy suitcase around.” – Expat ExploreTour Leader
Wheeled suitcases are the most common suitcases used on tour, but backpacks are also popular among younger travellers. Both options have their pros and cons to consider:
Expat Explore luggage dimensions: What you need to know
Main luggage for the coach:
You are permitted to take one piece of main luggage with you on the coach to a maximum weight of 20kg. Maximum dimensions are 75cm x 43cm x 90cm. Please note that you need to carry your own luggage on tour (for example, from the tour bus to the hotels – and some hotels may not have elevators) so please ensure you can handle the size and weight of the bag you choose to bring.
Carry-on bags for the coach:
You may bring a carry-on bag, also known as a daypack, with you on the coach. This will hold everyday things you may need while travelling and sightseeing such as water, a camera, sunscreen, a hat etc. Maximum dimensions for carry-on bags for the coach are 42cm x 30cm x 18cm.
Are you joining an Expat Explore rail tour? Take a look here:
Related: Take a look at our blog to find out more information about how to pack for a rail tour.
Step 2: Think of these three important factors
1. The length of your stay
The amount of time you spend in a specific area/country will influence your travel wardrobe the most. Pack one casual outfit for every day and one or two smart outfits for when you have to dress up. For longer trips, remember that you can wash clothes at a laundromat. Laundromats or laundry services can be located in or near most hotels. We recommend doing your laundry in destinations where you spend 2-3 nights. When packing, remember that you’ll have to repack almost daily, so distribute weight evenly when you pack and keep it organised. It’s so much easier if you know what you are looking for.
“A lot of people think that Europe is always cold. Do your research and find out more about the weather. Dress yourself mentally from head to toe to make sure you have everything you need. Remember that you always need less clothing than you imagine.” – Expat Explore Tour Leader
2. Season, weather & climate
Whether you are looking forward to sun, sea and sand on a summertime trip or are touring Europe during the chilly festive season, you will experience different types of weather as you travel and should be able to adapt your clothing accordingly. You can find all sorts of information online about the seasons, weather and even the amount of rainy days to expect. Keep an eye on trusted weather sites like Wunderground when you start packing. Allow yourself enough time to shop before you leave. The best way to master the weather on tour is to choose outfits that you can mix and match. Remember, quick-dry and wrinkle-free clothing is best – especially in summer.
Related: Wondering what suitcase essentials you need when heading out to Europe in the chilly winter months? Find out here!
3. The type of activities you will be doing
Refer to your trip itinerary to see how active you’ll be when on the road. You might need special equipment and should find out if you can hire what you need from the intended destination.
Comfortable shoes are an absolute must. Think about a pair of sneakers that can pack up away neatly and always throw in a pair of flip-flops. They are versatile and can be used as “slippers” in your hotel. When travelling in fall or winter, wear your bulkiest pair of shoes on the plane.
“Walking is by far the activity you do the most. If you’ve got your passport and comfortable walking shoes, you’ve got everything you need!” – Greg Fleming, Private Groups Manager
Step 3: Take note of these important items that you CAN’T leave at home
- Passport & visas (if required). Check the expiry date on your passport. Are there at least six months remaining from the date of travel? If not, apply for a new one! Take two photocopies of the information pages of your passport and your travel insurance policy with you on tour. Keep both sets with you (for example, one in your hand luggage and one in your main luggage). Having digital copies is also helpful.
- A suitcase strap and name tag to identify your bag from the rest, and include an address or contact number so it can be returned if lost, e.g. by your airline.
- Money belts or secret compartments in your bag. When travelling between destinations keep your passport and money on you. When you’re just going out for the day, only take what money you need, and leave the rest (plus your passport) in the hotel room where it’s safe.
- Daypack. This is your coach carry on bag. Usually a small backpack, or handbag to keep your camera, wet-wipes, a sweater and snacks in. You’ll also find souvenirs to buy while travelling and wouldn’t want to carry them all the way.
- Travel adapter. Most countries in Europe use a standardised two-pin plug. However, there can be variances, particularly in Switzerland, so a multi-country plug adapter that is compatible with all plug types is worth the extra cost.
- Gadgets like your camera, iPod and their chargers. Finding these in a foreign country can be difficult and expensive.
- International phone sim card. Be sure to purchase an international cellphone sim card well in advance. Also, research your accommodation to find out about Wi-Fi options. To stay connected abroad while saving on roaming bills, buy an eSIM from reputable suppliers like Airalo.
- Zipping bags for your toiletries. The lids on bottles can come off in transit, or be affected by the air pressure in the hold luggage when you fly. In the unfortunate event of spillage, it will be contained and not ruin your clothes or other items in your bag.
- Finally, the chronic medication you take regularly is vital. It might be tricky to find these in a foreign country.
“Don’t carry large sums of any currency. Europe widely accepts major credit cards and cash cards. Make your bank aware of your travel plans.” – Expat Explore Tour Leader
Step 4: Forget about these non-essentials
One of the most annoying things is coming home after two weeks in Europe, unpacking and finding things that you did not use or wear a single time. Consider leaving the following items at home to save some much-needed space:
- Bath towels. Hotels provide these as well as swimming towels. However, you might need a swimming towel for a beach holiday.
- Heavy guidebooks and maps. You can find brochures and fold-up maps in all major tourist destinations. We also supply a fun regional guide for you to read while on board.
- Jewellery or valuables. Leave behind anything precious that you would want to keep safe from loss or damage.
- Expensive, heavy clothing and heels. While one or two smarter outfits may benefit a night on the town, you will not get much of a chance to wear fancy clothing and heels. Comfortable and light clothing is the name of the game!
- A flashy camera bag. Try to camouflage your equipment by using an ordinary daypack or shoulder bag.
Ready to get back on the road? Have a look at our upcoming tours! If you’ve already booked a tour you can find more packing information and other travel essentials in our Help section. We’d love to hear about your packing headaches and how you solved them! Share with us in the comment section below.
138 responses to “Pro packing advice for your next big adventure!”
Please advice me and guide me next march i will be going for vacation to China kindly let me know what i need to carry with me as well as what more i need to arrange explain to me in details
Hello Salmaan! Thanks for reaching out to us. 🙂 We do not do tours to China, unfortunately.
[…] yet? Here are some more pro packing advice to ensure that your winter coach tour of Europe goes off without a hitch. Bon […]
Hello, how can we joined the optional tour? We’re going on May3-20 Europe explorer tour.
Hallo Maria! You can book and pay all optional excursions with your tour leader in the local currency. The tour leader will explain how it works on day 1 🙂 If you have more questions, please feel free to send us an email at info@expatexplore.com. Have a fantastic trip!
On the Europe Explorer tour, can I leave my carry-on bag in the bus while doing a walking tour? Thank you.
Hello Mario! You sure can, but you would do so at your own risk. The coach might not be under supervision all the time and we cannot take any responsibility for any damages or loss.
do we need to bring shoes for the snow when we go to the Swiss Alps and to the Ice Palace?
Hello Mel! When you go up Jungfrau you will most definitely set foot in the snow, but you don’t need specific snowshoes for the excursion. We can recommend that you wear comfortable, waterproof shoes that will keep your feet nice and warm. Skates, sleds and boots can be rented from a rental shop if you decide to get active and go sledding or skiing.
What do we need to bring for our Switzerland stop. We are planning to go up to the glaciers. Won’t we experience altitude sickness up there at 4,000m. I’m 57 y/o and my wife is 55. What is the experience of your guests like our age.
Hello Cecil! All you need is a warm jacket, sunglasses and comfortable shoes (you will walk around on ice and in snow). With regards to the altitude sickness – anyone can suffer from light case of altitude sickness when travelling up to the Jungfraujoch peak. Precautions apply to children under the age of 2, anybody that is pregnant or in poor health. In most cases, however, staying at this altitude for short periods is not a problem. You tour leader will also be able to help you prepare before you head up. If you have any more questions, please send a mail to info@expatexplore.com. We’re happy to help!
It says your luggage will be with you at all times. If I am doing the European Jewel does that mean every minute of the day I will have to carry my luggage? Example would be if I’m walking the streets of Italy for example, do I have to drag my suitcase with me?
Hello Morgan! As we travel your luggage will be safely stowed in the luggage compartment of the coach. Your daypack (backpack, camera bag, handbag) is with you and can be stowed in the overhead compartment when we’re on the coach. We hope this answers your question? Please get in touch if you need more information >> https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
We are travelling on 16th July early in the morning for Europe Tour . Do we get breakfast on the way ?
Thank you
Hello Deepa! Yes, breakfast is included and gets served at the hotel you stay at. To explore to the max – you need all the energy you can get!
during claasic europe 14 days coach tour from 25th july-07 Aug, only for the optional ‘train to Jungfrau’ we need to carry the winter jacket that occupies large space and wt.
Is it avaialable rental for this purpose only?
Hallo MD! The weather is fairly mild/warm that time of the year, even up on Jungfray. You will be able to get by with just a jersey/sweater and light jacket. If you plan to go skiing/sledding or spend long periods outside, you might need something warmer. Simply ask your tour leader. He/she will be able to help you find a rental in the area. If you have any other questions, please reach out to our customer support team >> https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
Hi, I am going on the Euro Jewel in July. I REALLY want to do the skydive, But also some of the other excursions on that day. Do you know the times of each of the excursions on the Swiss free day ?
Hello Victoria! There are so many exciting options for your free day in Switzerland! Your tour leader will be able to provide all the details to make the most of your time. Skydiving and Jungfrau are by far the most popular, but unfortunately you can’t do both. Jungfrau is a full day excursion as it takes more than 2 hours to get the top. Once up there, there’s a lot to explore! If you need more info, please send us a mail to info@expatexplore.com. We’re ready to help! Find out more about Jungfrau excursion here > https://www.jungfrau.ch/en-gb/jungfraujoch-top-of-europe/
we have two bags each weighing about 20 lbs. that needs storage from 29th July until we return from tour. Could u please advise how and where we could store them. We would be staying in Greenwich London on the 29th. Thank you for your assistance. Charmaine Wijesinghe.
Hello Charmaine! I’ve sent on your question to one of our customer service members. They will be in contact with you shortly. Have a fantastic time on tour!
Do the hotels in Europe on our 26 day trip provide shampoo and soap?
Hello Charmaine! Some hotels will, but others might not. We definitely recommend that you bring your own.
We booked the Taste of Spain tour starting on the 24th of Aug. Booking Ref: 2017xxxx4 . The tour ends on the 30th of Aug. We booked the return flight back to Canada through Gatwick, London. Our Gatwick flight is on Aug. 30th at 21:50. (9:50pm) We have to be at the airport 2 hours before to check in. That is 19:50 (7:50pm). Your last e-mail to us says that you will drop us at the Holiday Inn at Madrid at 21:30. or at the Central Train station at 19:30. What is the best way to go to the Terminal 1 Airport on time? Please send me an e-mail also to the address given above. Thanks. Joseph
Hello Joseph! Our team will be in contact with you to answer your question. Have a fabulous time on tour!
I’m intending to bring a suitcase but also a day backpack (suitable for cabin baggage on a plane); is this okay?
That is absolutely perfect, Lee! Just make sure the weight of your does not exceed 21k/46 lbs.
Hi,
I am joining the Ultimate Europe tour. I have one luggage on wheels (typical airline check-in luggage) of approx. 20kg. I also have one carry on luggage on wheels (standard size airline carry-on-luggage). Is that OK?
Hi, thanks for the message! We’re so excited that you’ll be joining us for the Ultimate Europe Tour.
Your amount of luggage sounds perfect. If you have any further queries regarding your trip you could read about some of the essential info >> https://expatexplore.com/tours-help/
Or you could contact us >> https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
I am traveling in Europe tour from Sept 24-Sept 30 2017, how much cash do I need to carry and in what currency?
Hi Alka,
Which tour will you be joining? Please contact our team and they will be able to give you detailed assistance >>https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
We also have this handy article to help you with your budgeting >> https://expatexplore.com/blog/make-travel-super-affordable/
Hey Guys,
I’ll be joining you for the Europe Jewel tour on Sept 14 to Oct 8th, which means we’ll be visiting Switzerland on Oct 4th, should I pack my winter jacket? I’ve heard some other countries get rainy during these months as well so I’m thinking is a good idea to pack both my winter jacket and sorel boots since they’re water proof 🙂
Thanks in advance!
Hi Tania,
Europe Jewel really shows all that Europe has to offer so you need to be prepared for all kinds of weather and activities! Boots and winter jacket is always a good idea for the cooler evenings and Swiss Alps. But then there’s also warmer Italy, where you’ll want to wear open and comfortable shoes. You can take a look at this helpful article for you >> https://expatexplore.com/blog/europe-by-season-when-to-travel-where/ *A helpful tip: to save space you can wear your boots and jacket to the airport to save space in your bag.
Can you confirm that instead of a backpack for carry-on, I can bring a wheeled small luggage such as that cabin bag for planes?
Hi Arlene
That sounds perfect, if your bag fits for cabin luggage in a plane, it will fit on the bus. However, please remember to bring a backpack/handbag as we will do a lot of walking during the day.
If you have any further queries regarding your trip you could read about some of the essential info >> https://expatexplore.com/tours-help/
Or you could contact us >> https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
The New Year Taster tour from 12/19/17 till 1/4/18. Towards the end of our tour where will we be going back to ? Is it the same hotel we started from the check point? Do I need to arrange it now?
Hi Amareux, I’ve asked someone from our team to contact you and give you all the relevant information. Look forward to welcoming you on tour with us!
Should I bring some foreign currency with me to Egypt or is it possible to get it at Cairo airport or at hotels?
Hi Katherine, Thanks for your message. There is no need to bring the currency along, you will be able to do it all at the airport and the tour leader will ensure enough stops at ATMs.
I am booked on the Irish Explorer. Do you store the main pieces of luggage in the bottom of the bus? We certainly do not have to take our main piece of luggage off the bus with us every time we get out to see something, right?
Hi Beth, Thanks for your message and we’re very excited to welcome you on our Irish Explorer tour! You’re quite right, your luggage will be staying either on the bus or at the hotel where we will be staying over. There will be no need to lug your luggage around while you’re exploring 🙂
I’m traveling with a small medical device (CPAP machine for sleeping) and it comes in its own case. I want to know if it is okay to leave it in its case or do I have to fit it inside my carry on luggage? I have a really small luggage so I’m not sure if it will fit.
Hi Maria, Thanks for the message! I have asked a member from our team to contact you.
Should I buy euros for currency or can I pay food, souvenirs , shows with dollar?
Hi Marlene, It all depends on where you will be travelling to. You’re welcome to contact us directly for any information regarding your tour. >>https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
Do you know if the hotels have hair dryers? It would be nice not to have to pack that. Thanks!
Hi Janelle, thanks for your message. While most of our hotels have hairdryers, we cannot confirm that this will be the case throughout your tour. If you would like to ensure that you have one every day – it will be better to pack your own, to avoid disappointment.
I was planning one big suitcase and one small carry on. Is the small carry on allowed on the tour?
Hi Tracy, we do not recommend bringing a smaller suitcase – but rather a backpack or day-pack. There are times when you will need to carry your bags up stairs and two bags will be very difficult to handle. We also cannot guarantee that there will be enough space on the coach for your big suitcase and another case (although it may be smaller).
Will the hotels on the Ultimate European trip have hair dryers or do I need to pack my own?
Can I pay for excursions with my credit card?
Do I need to prebook on my own for the lift at the Eiffel Tower?
Hi Leigh Anne,
Thanks for your message, we’re so excited for you to join us on the Ultimate Europe trip! I have asked a member from our team to contact you and assist you with all your questions. 🙂
Hi there. Could you advise what 2 wear to Jungfrau on june 14. Also would uggboots be suitable
Hi Cathy, Thank you for the message! It will be cold as you go up the mountain but when you head back into the village the temperatures will be much higher. So, we would recommend saving packing space by just wearing your sneakers – or shoes with grip that you can use for the rest of your trip.
We are going on the 8 Days Taste of Eastern Europe tour. On our last day the tour visits Nuremburg and spend the last night in Munich again. Can we leave the tour in Nuremburg and do our own thing as we will stay an extra day. We have already made bookings for accommodation in Nuremburg. Where will be the best place to leave the bus. Our address in Nuremburg for the extra day is, Breite Gasse 24, Nuremburg Bayeren. Can you suggest transport options from the bus to our address.
Hi Trudie,
We’re very excited to welcome you on tour with us! I have asked a member from our team to contact you and help you with your query.
Hi do i need to pack shampoo soap and conditioner as they are weighty and i am trying to pack light
Hi Janet, We would recommend pouring your shampoo and conditioner into smaller bottles, that way you only take the needed amount. We cannot guarantee that you’ll find shampoo and conditioner in every hotel.
We are booked on the 7 day Irish Explorer Aug 12th. Please advise what clothing to bring. Is athletic wear ie sneakers, leggings, and tees ok for during the day tours? What is acceptable for nights out in the pubs? Thanks in advance! Can’t wait!
Hi Stacy, That is so exciting and we’re sure you’ll have a wonderful time! Please take a look at this link to get an idea of the temperatures in Ireland during August >> https://www.timeanddate.com/weather/ireland/dublin/climate
For nights out, jeans and a light jacket would be just fine. We always suggest one thick jacket – but layering is always best (you never know if a heat wave may hit).
Hi, So we are going on the Classic Europe in a few days. It says we can’t have a carry on bigger than a small backpack, both me and my sister have our smaller carry on size duffle bags packed already and they fit under a seat is that okay?
Hi Kara, we’re so excited to be welcoming you on tour with us soon! Please take note of the following information regarding our overhead luggage space: The size of the overhead storage is quite small, about 30cm deep and 20cm high. You are each allowed 20kg for your main luggage, which can go into the bottom compartment. If you have any other queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact us here >> https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
Is the luggage requirements of 22kg per person?
Hi Gloria, Thanks for your message! On Expat Explore coach tours your luggage may not weigh more than 20kg/44lb. Most of the time you are required to carry your luggage when on tour and not all hotels have elevators. We strongly recommend that you use a light suitcase and pack only what you can comfortably carry.
Hello, almost ready for our Europe Jewel tour from Aug 19-Sept 01, 2018..Visas ready and just making the checklist of what to bring. My husband and I are very excited to experience this tour. Just a few questions, is there a WiFi in the tour bus or preferably to purchase a local sim while in London before the tour starts? How’s weather in Switzerland by end of August? I know it’s mostly summer in other places but wanna make sure if thicker clothing is needed. Thank you and see you all soon! Should there be any helpful tips and infos for our coming tour, would be very glad to know them.
Regards,
June & Emerson
Hi June and Emerson, We’re so excited to welcome you on tour with us!
Please note our coaches do not have WiFi on board but all hotels have WiFi, you could buy a sim card in the UK, then you can use it in any EU country just the same as if you were still in the UK. All you should need to get a sim is an ID – although please note that your tour leader may not have time to help you with organising this.
You’re welcome to take a look at this helpful article regarding weather here >> https://expatexplore.com/blog/europe-by-season-when-to-travel-where/
If you have any other queries you’re welcome to contact a member from our team here >> https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
I’ve seen videos of gangs that rob luggage in bus compartments in paris. How do you ensure that luggage are secured in the bus? Also, if I use a duffel bag for the entire trip (and not suitcase), would I be able to bring it up inside the bus with me? Thank you.
Hi Bernadette, We definitely understand your concern regarding safety and we would like to assure you that we take the utmost precautions for our travellers. You will not be able to take your main luggage onto the bus with you as the size of the overhead luggage is quite small – about 30cm deep and 20cm high. Travellers are allowed to keep daypacks with them, this is for their everyday things (e.g. camera, water bottle, sun cream, hat etc.) while travelling, sightseeing or on overnight excursions.
Please know that the bus is always locked, and the drivers and tour leaders always try to ensure the safest parking spots. If you have any more queries please do not hesitate to contact us here >> https://expatexplore.com/contact-us/
What is the right size of the suitcase to bring?
And which hotels on the tour has laundromats nearby? Thank you
We allow 20KGs of luggage and only one main suitcase (maximum size 29.5 x 17 x 35.5in/ 75 x 43 x 90cm). Passengers can also take a “day pack” with them, this is a smaller bag for personal belongings like a purse, passport, sunscreen, sunglasses etc. On tour – you will mostly be able to do laundry in the locations where you sleep in the same hotel for 2 nights or more (if it’s not in the hotel then you could locate a laundromat nearby).
Hi I am taking the european taster tour. as i am from the tropical climate, please advise kinds of clothes i should pack especially for Swiss. thanks.
Hi Grace, if you’re heading to Europe soon then we would suggest preparing for warmer weather in the rest of Europe. However, it’s always good to pack a warmer jacket and jersey for the evenings or cooler days. In Switzerland you could just layer rather than packing ‘winter wear’ for one destination. We look forward to welcoming you!
Could you advice me on what type and how many clothing to take for my upcoming Turkey trip starting on 8th September ?
Hi Irani, here is a helpful link to take a look at the current/future temperatures in Turkey >> https://www.timeanddate.com/weather/turkey/istanbul/climate
Please remember to pack for the religious sights you might visit on your trip.
What dimensions are the recommendations for suitcase please
Maximum weight: 20kg
Maximum size: 75 x 43 x 90cm
Maximum weight 44lbs
Maximum size 29.5 x 17 x 35.5in
You can also take a “day pack” with them, this is a smaller bag for personal belongings like a purse, passport, sunscreen, sunglasses etc.
Is it possible to get my own room for the tour?
Hi Randa, There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added up to 15 days prior to departure. If you’d like more information about this please contact one of our Customer Service agents who will gladly assist you.
Please can you send the complete iterenary of Cambodia and vietnam tour this coming February 2020. Thanks
Hi Melody,
It is fantastic that you are interested in our Vietnam and Cambodia tours.
One of our agents will contact you with more information. Hope to see you on one of our Expat tours soon!
Hello, we are taking the 7 day UK tour on April 14th and would like to know if there are USB plugs on the tour buses so that we can charge our devices if needed.
Hi Doris ,
How exciting that you will be going on a lifetime with us in a few weeks!
Regrettably, our coaches do not have USB charge points on board. We always advise our travelers to make use of the charging points in the hotels or to purchase a power bank if need be.
Should you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We are headed on USA and Canada tour on 20 May. It seems that it will be quite cool.
Any packing essentials?
1.Should we pack long boots or ankle boots or sneakers. Should they be waterproof.
2. Should we take long warm coats and down jackets.
We live in sunny South Africa.
Hello Pris! Sneakers will be fine – or any shoes as long as they are super comfy. We walk quite a bit on tour. It will be late spring in the area we travel in. Long warm/down jackets are not needed! Light jackets and a hoodie (for layering) will be more than enough.
I need to bring a carry on and a suitcase,is it ok ?
Hi there Maryam! You can take a look at our packing advice here: https://expatexplore.com/blog/pro-packing-advice-for-your-next-big-adventure/
With regards to carry on bags, we advise our travellers to make sure they can comfortably carry their own luggage on tour
I need to take a Carrie on and one luggage is that possible? I had cancer and I can’t Carrie have gag
Hi Patricia, thank you for your message! Expat Explores luggage requirements are the same/similar to those of the airlines. As long as your bags meet those requirements you’ll be perfectly fine 🙂
My husband and I will go to the Classic Europe tour in 2 weeks.. we are planning to share one big suitcase and have a carry on each… if that ok??
Hi María, thank you for your message! We do advise a maximum limit of 20kg for main big pieces of luggage, while carry ons are typically small backpacks or carry bags that are easy to carry around. We offer travellers these guidelines as we want to make sure you are are able to comfortably carry your luggage from the coach to your hotel rooms while on tour.
If you would like to discuss luggage questions more, please contact our Customer Service team. You can use the live chat function on our website (the blue icon located in the bottom left hand corner of the website) or email info@expatexplore.com.
Hello, do we have to bring a hair dryer? Thank you.
Hi there, thank you for your message! Most of the hotels included in our itineraries provide hairdryers, however you are absolutely free to bring your own hair dryer if you wish.
Can I have a medical bag in addition to my carry on and can I leave both on the bus? Eastern Adriatic tour.
Thank you for your message Patricia! We understand that a member of our Customer Service team has already been in touch regarding information about luggage. Expat Explore travellers are allowed one main piece of luggage weighing up to 20kgs as well as a carry on bag. Your carry on bag needs to be light and easy to carry as you will need to take it with you on the walking tours, we do not accept responsibility for any luggage left on the coach during stops.
Please see here https://expatexplore.com/tours-help/ and select your tour to see more information and other FAQs.
Should you have any further questions or concerns, please contact us.
We look forward to having you on board soon!
Excited for the Azerbaijan, Georgia Arminian tour. Any special instructions on packing and local currency tips?
Hi Naveena, thank you for your message! Please take a look at our essential tour information page for the tour here: https://expatexplore.com/tours-help/?t=23418
Take a look at the “Pre-Departure Information” section for info on your questions above. Our Customer Service team recommends downloading the PDF version of the essential tour information for a fantastic overview of the tour that you can read at your leisure. Happy travels! 🙂
Hello, can you please let me know the requirements for tipping in Europe. Is there any countries that this is customary? Do we have to tip the bus driver and tour guide? Thanks Karen
Hi Karen,
Tipping is now customary in most places around the world, particularly in all areas of the service industry. Different countries in Europe will have different expectations when it comes to tipping. However, it is usually between 5-10% of the bill. Your Expat Explore driver and tour leader work very hard to ensure that you have a memorable experience on tour and, therefore, tipping them is a highly appreciated. Should you have any further questions, please feel free to email our customer service team at info@expatexplore.com.
Happy travels!
Hi Fotini, yes this is correct 🙂
Hi,
What if I shop every country and the weight of my bag goes beyond 20 kg?
Hi Rob, if you plan on doing a lot of shopping, we strongly recommend that you come on tour with a lighter suitcase so that you have room for more items. This will also help you when flying back home as many airlines have a restriction of 20-23kg per suitcase. However, should your bag be a few kgs over, as long as you are able to carry your own luggage, this should not be an issue. Should you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our friendly customer service team at info@expatexplore.com. Happy Travels!
I’ve been on expat before – I absolutely recommend you pay the driver and guide the recommended tip… They look after you before, after and during the tour and have lots to confirm after we go to bed… Please consider what they do for you/us.
Thank you for your kind and thoughtful message Andrea. Our drivers and tour leaders certainly work very hard to ensure that our passengers have the best time on tour! We hope to see you on tour with us again soon.
Question about the Optional Excursions: Do we need to have cash? Or will a credit, debit or prepaid cards be sufficient.
Hi Felecia, if you are paying for excursions while on tour, cash is preferred. However, you can pre-book and pay via credit or debit card for certain optional excursions before your tour by contacting our customer service team at info@expatexplore.com. Hope this helps, happy travels!
i take it 1 bag per person max 20ks
Hi Chris, this is correct 🙂
I was not made aware of the luggage rules. My husband will be in Spain for an extra week after the tour and we will have carry on bags as well as luggage. We’ve already paid extra for travel accommodations (plane and train) for these bags and want to know what our options are now. Thank you. (Taste of Spain Tour 8/19-8/26)
Hi Jessica, as long as you do not mind carrying your own luggage, it should not be a problem. Should you have any further queries, please contact our customer service team at info@expatexplore.com. Happy travels!
Thank you so much for the detailed information!
I must say, your Staff is very diligent and thorough to send this to all concerned. I have no doubt that my Trip with EXPAT will be great!!
Hi Dinaz, thank you so much for your kind words! We are so excited to have you on the road with us. Happy travels and see you soon!
Just wondering if th hotels have hair dryers? Thank you
Hi Dawna, this may differ between hotels but the majority of hotels will have hair dryers. Hope this helps!
Can we use US dollar cash to pay for excursions & restaurant?
Hi Jean, it depends where you are travelling. For example, if travelling within Europe, you will be required to pay in Euros. Your tour leader will be able to assist you in finding ATMs or currency exchanges. Should you have any further questions, please contact our friendly customer service team at info@expatexplore.com. Happy travels!
What’s the name of the hotel we are meeting the tour group for the south Italy and Sicily tour starting 9/3/23?
Hi Mike, the hotel where the group will meet is the Warmthotel in Rome. Our customer service team will be in touch soon with more information, keep an eye on your email inbox. Happy travels!
Would you please tell me, if month of September in London is Cold already to help me packing my clothes. Thanks a lot
Hi Brenda, September is spring in London meaning that weather is generally quite pleasant – not too hot and not too cold. Daytime temperatures are cooler than summer but you should be alright with a light jacket and possibly a warmer jacket for the evenings. However, there is no need to pack heavy winter clothes. Hope this helps! Should you have any further queries, please feel free to contact the customer service team at info@expatexplore.com. Happy travels!
Is there wifi on the coach ?
Hi Imani, unfortunately there is no wifi on the coach. However, the hotels and many public areas visited will have free wifi. Should you have any further questions, please contact our customer service team at info@expatexplore.com. Happy travels!
What is the weather like in May in Italy?
Hi Sandra, May is spring in Italy meaning it is generally pleasant during the day. Some days may be very warm but it will likely cool down in the evenings and there may be some rainfall. However, Italy is a large country and the weather can differ significantly depending on which region you are visiting. We recommend checking a weather app such as Yr.no about a week before your travels for a more accurate report. Hope this helps!
When paying for optional excursions on board can we use a credit card?
Hi Cynthia, certain optional excursions can be paid for prior to your tour using a credit card but on-tour excursions should be paid for in cash to your tour leader in the local currency. Your tour leader will be able to assist in getting you to an ATM or currency exchange. Should you need any further information, please contact our customer service team at info@expatexplore.com. Happy travels!
I ‘d like to know how much it will cost to do the Swiss Alps mintn experience excursions.
Hi Rudy! Please contact our customer service team at info@expatexplore.com with your question. They will get back to you as soon as possible with the relevant informatoion. Happy travels!
Hello,
If there are excursions we can pay for prior where would we find that info to select those ahead of time?
Thank you
Julie & Chuck Burns
Hi Julie & Chuck, our team will contact you via email and inform you if there are any excursions available to pre-book on your tour. However, if you would like to find out more information now, please contact our customer service team at info@expatexplore.com and they will provide you with up-to-date information. Happy travels!
I have sleep apnea and I must travel with a C-Pap machine which provides air when I sleep. It has a small bag in which all of the needed items fit in. Please advise if this is permissible to carry on the bus.
Hi Kimberly! Of course, we will make arrangements to ensure that you can travel with your C-Pap machine as this is vital for your overall wellbeing which is very important to us. Please just inform our customer service team (you can email them at info@expatexplore.com) prior to your trip so that we can inform your tour leader and driver. Happy travels!
I just read everything in this email regarding luggage. It says here that I can bring one big luggage max weight 44 lbs. Last week I was talking to someone in your WhatApp and I sent him a picture of a luggage and a carry on, and he said that is perfect. Now, in this email, it is saying that I can only bring the 44 lbs luggage and a back pack. What happened to what I was first told????
Hi Jen, the luggage restrictions are a guideline and not a strict rule. If our customer service team has informed you that your luggage is fine and if you are happy to carry it, then you will be absolutely fine. Should you have any further questions, please contact us at info@expatexplore.com. Happy travels!
Can you leave a bag on the coach area of the bus? We each have a day-bag and we were wondering if you could leave 1 bag (non essential items) on the bus as you walk with the other day bag.
Hi Shaun, yes you are welcome to leave a bag on the coach. Hope this helps!
We will be going on the 16 day trip on September 14 – 30, 2025. Can you give 4 women any packing ideas and what type of clothes that we will need.
Thank you in advance,
Pat
Hi Pat, we strongly advise that you check the weather in your destination beforehand. What you pack will largely depend on the temperature as different regions can experience vast temperature differences in September. For example, in Spain or Italy it might still be very much summer with temperatures upwards of 30°C. However, in more Northern countries such as the UK, the Baltics and Scandinavia, you will likely require something warmer for the evenings and cooler days.
Can you have one suit for 2 people with weight 30 kg
Hi Milla, as long as you or your travel partner are capable of carrying the luggage, that should be fine.