Traveling by train is a great way to get to your destination in a more leisurely fashion than flying or driving. It’s also one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transportation. If you travel in Europe or Asia, it’s common to take the train for both long and short distances. But whether you’re traveling abroad or in the United States, you can follow these tips for traveling by train to ensure you have the best possible experience:
Bring the required documentation
In America, most train travel is done with Amtrak. The only thing required when boarding an Amtrak train is the proper documentation: your ticket and, if you are of adult age, a government-issued ID. Unaccompanied minors aged 15 and over also need an ID. Some smaller train companies do not require any identification, but it’s still recommended to travel with it. In general, carry your ID with you whenever you travel, by train or otherwise.
Bring your own food and drinks
Even though trains provide food and drinks on long rides, it’s still a good idea to bring your own, particularly if you have special needs or dietary restrictions. Bringing your own water is recommended. Amtrak serves alcoholic beverages but allows you to carry and drink your own onboard, as long as you follow their guidelines. As with luggage, make sure you’ve researched the rules for the train line you are using.
Get comfortable
Just as with traveling by airplane, you’ll never regret bringing comfort items when traveling by train. If you’re traveling in coach and do not have access to a sleeping car, you’ll greatly benefit from packing eye covers and earplugs, a blanket, and a travel pillow. Wear comfortable clothing too. Many people like to relax in their pajamas on the train. If the weather is cool, bring warm socks. Train cars can get cold.
Pack your necessities
You can spend quite a lot of time traveling by train. While train companies often provide food and drinks, you’ll need to bring your own non-food supplies. Take your medication and personal care items with you, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, and hand sanitizer. Amtrak allows passengers to pack three bags, each weighing no more than 50 pounds. You may also bring a necessary personal item like a stroller or laptop. Regardless of the company you are traveling with, make sure to get acquainted with their luggage rules.
Relax and socialize
One of the most rewarding aspects of traveling by train is the ability to walk around, socialize, and generally relax more than you’d be able to in a car or airplane. When traveling by train, it’s all about the journey rather than the destination. Bring a book to read, download a movie, play party games with your friends and family, and meet new people! On a train, you can meet travelers from all over the world.
Travel light
Traveling light is always a good way to reduce stress. If you have to bring a lot of luggage with you, consider checking it instead of bringing it on the train. When you travel by train, you’ll often need to go up and down steps, or haul baggage across narrow aisles. You’ll have a much better time if you bring only the necessary with you aboard the train.
Don’t worry if you’re a first-time traveler. According to Amtrak, over 60% of its passengers are first-timers. Follow the above tips to have a great experience — and enjoy the ride!