Eid is not just a festival, it's a longing that builds up over months; a time to break free from the usual commotion, a countdown that begins the moment the last Eid vacation ends. Every year, hundreds of thousands of the capital's inhabitants rush to their villages and hometowns to reunite with their loved ones.
For most of us, home is not the apartment we rent in the city but the village where our childhood still lingers, where Eid mornings smell of freshly cooked shemai and the warmth of family. And so, during Eid vacation, Dhaka, for once, breathes. However, while the city enjoys this rare moment of stillness, the roads, highways, and transport hubs become a whirlwind of people rushing to leave all at once. Trains are packed beyond capacity, bus counters look like battle zones, and a simple mistake, like forgetting to book tickets on time, can turn your journey into a nightmare.
With a little preparation, though, you can make sure your trip is less of a struggle and more of a smooth ride. Here's what you need to keep in mind —
Plan Like Your Eid Depends on It
Planning before a long journey is always important, but when it comes to Eid, it becomes even more crucial. Tickets sell out within hours and highways are packed with traffic. So, if you have not secured yours yet, now is the time. Know when the tickets will be available and book at your earliest convenience.
Whether you prefer travelling by train, bus, or launch keep track of the departure and arrival times and book according to your preference — be it morning, night, or in between. If you are fasting, factor in sehri and iftar times so that you do not find yourself stuck in the middle of nowhere with an empty stomach.
If you are travelling in a group, ensure everyone is on the same page about departure times and meeting points. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a heated phone call while the train leaves the platform without you.
Safety First, Always
Eid travel is chaotic, and in such times, safety should be your first concern. With the current unrest and unpredictable conditions, it's best to be extra cautious. Know your route and expected arrival time. If possible, share your live location with family members.
Keep a small pouch with emergency contacts, a photocopy of your IDs, and any necessary documents. If you are carrying valuable items, keep them close; if you are travelling at night, be aware of the stops along your route and avoid unnecessary interactions with strangers. It's always better to be a little paranoid than to regret not being cautious enough.
Pack Early, Pack Smart
Packing in a hurry is a recipe for disaster, you will either forget something important or end up carrying half your room with you. A simple rule: pack the night before. Essentials first, phone charger, toothbrush, medication, and a change of clothes.
If you are carrying gifts for family, make sure they fit within your luggage without making it unmanageable. And if you are bringing food, pack wisely, and avoid anything that might leak, spill, or make the entire bus smell like curry for six hours.
Watch Out for Pickpockets
Pickpockets love the Eid season almost as much as you do. With the rush, the crowd, and the general distraction of holiday travel, they find the perfect cover to slip a hand into an unsuspecting traveller's pocket.
Keep your money in multiple places and never in a single wallet. If you are carrying a bag, wear it across your chest, not on your back. And while it's tempting to keep your phone in hand to scroll through social media, be mindful of your surroundings. The last thing you want is to post a status about reaching home safely, only to realise your phone was stolen at the last station.
Water and Essentials
Long journeys can be exhausting and dehydration makes it worse. Whether you are fasting or not, carry a bottle of water, remember, it is always better to be extra cautious. Basic medications, paracetamol, motion sickness pills, or anything you might need, should also be part of your travel kit.
If you do not want to rely on roadside vendors selling overpriced snacks of questionable hygiene, pack some dry, easy-to-eat snacks like nuts, biscuits, or chocolate bars. If you are fasting, having dates and a small juice box can be a lifesaver for an iftar on the go.
Avoid anything too oily or heavy — you do not want your stomach protesting halfway through the journey. Also, be mindful of fellow passengers, nobody wants to sit next to someone eating something with a strong smell inside a packed bus or train.
Stretch, Move, Breathe
Sitting in one position for hours can turn your body into a stiff board. By the time you reach home, your legs might feel like they belong to someone else. If you are on a long journey, make it a habit to stretch whenever possible. Rotate your ankles, stretch your arms, or take a short walk when the vehicle makes a stop.
If you are on a train or launch, walk around a bit to keep the blood flowing. Even simple shoulder rolls can save you from hours of discomfort. Your muscles will thank you when you finally arrive home without feeling like you just ran a marathon.
A Soundtrack for the Road
Eid journeys are long, and boredom is inevitable unless you come prepared. Make a playlist before you leave, whether it's your favourite songs or an audiobook you have been meaning to listen to.
Offline entertainment can be your best friend while network signals disappear in the middle of nowhere. A good playlist or an engaging podcast can turn a dull, never-ending bus ride into a peaceful escape. If music is not your thing, download a few episodes of your favourite show or a light movie to keep you entertained.
Be Weather-Wise
Eid journey can come with its own set of surprises and the weather can be one of those. To beat the daytime heat, dress in breathable, comfortable clothing, carry a small fan, and a pack of wet tissues, and for the night-time chill, you can keep a light shawl or jacket. As the roads are dusty and pollution can make hours of travel exhausting, keeping a mask or a scarf will help you protect yourself from the weather outside.
Also, check the weather forecast before you leave, so you are not caught off guard. If storms or heavy rainfall are predicted, be mentally prepared for delays and plan accordingly. A little preparation can save you from an unnecessarily miserable journey.
Power Banks and Backup Plans
Your phone is your lifeline during travel, whether for directions, emergency contacts, or just passing the time. But with long hours on the road, battery life becomes an issue. A power bank is essential, especially if your journey is longer than expected.
If you are using mobile data for entertainment or navigation, remember that it drains your battery quickly. Keep a charging cable with you and, if possible, charge your phone fully before leaving. A dead phone in an unfamiliar place is the last thing you want.
Eid travel is a challenge, but a little preparation can make it a lot easier. The goal is simple, get home safely, comfortably, and with your energy intact for the celebrations ahead. So, plan and book your tickets, pack your bags, and make the most of the journey. After all, the real joy begins the moment you step out of your vehicle and hear someone say, Eid Mubarak!
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