Last Updated on January 23, 2021
Unfortunately, traveling by train is no longer people’s favorite means of transportation via which they move from one place into another! However, this doesn’t mean that train travel is losing its popularity!
In contrary, many travelers and more particularly budget-conscious travelers find train travel attractive and quite interesting. Moreover, this is not the only reason as many travelers would always pick trains over airplanes so that they can enjoy the beautiful scenery and avoid the uncomfortable airplane cabins!
However, if you are willing to book your train ticket soon to travel to your chosen destination, keep in mind that train travel is not perfect and it can still be tough on the body and the mind!
Still, no worries, we have collected 9 amazing tips that would help you make your long train journeys much more fun and extremely comfortable!
Spring For An Upgrade
Upgrading your seat is one smart way to make your train travel more fun and comfortable! And by upgrading your train seat, we mean booking a sleeper cabin instead of the seat, especially if you are willing to take an overnight train trip.
You can also consider a business-class seat in order to have more legroom and greater recline. So, if your budget and availability allow this, don’t hesitate to spring for an upgrade!
Choose The Right Seat
Choosing the right seat is extremely important! In fact, it can either make your train travel interesting or deadly boring! So, make sure you choose wisely! For instance, if you prefer to enjoy the breathtaking scenery or very simply want something to lean on, choose window seats!
However, keep in mind that many trains have both front and rear facing seats. So, in case you’re prone to motion sickness, pick the former to avoid feeling so!
Pack Props
It is quite impossible that a standard train seat would fit and suit passengers of all sizes and heights that’s why it’s always wise to take this into consideration before you are onboard! If you have short legs, make sure to bring inflatable footrest to your feet.
Also, don’t forget to pack an inflatable seat cushion in case you are suffering from lower back or tailbone issues. Why not also bring a lumbar support pillow to prevent any lower back pain after a long train journey!
Planning to have an overnight train trip, bring a comfortable and cozy microfiber blanket and a travel pillow too!
Bring Your Own Entertainment
The train travel might be boring sometimes, especially if the ride is too long! Hence, it would be smart if you bring your own entertainment! For instance, you can bring a tablet stocked with books, music, or even movies. Just make sure you charge it well!
Luckily, some trains have power ports at every seat, which is really great! You just need to make sure that you have the right adapter for your charger in case you are traveling in a foreign country. Also, consider a portable charger if the train you are taking has no power outlets.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
When traveling by train, make sure you wear comfortable clothes with breathable fabric! Yes, you read it right! so, forget about your sexy high heels and your tight skinny jeans. Instead, opt for clothes made with soft and stretchy fabrics.
For instance, women can go for high-rise black leggings while men can go for ultra-stretch chinois. Also, make sure to wear layers in case the temperature in the train is too cold or too hot for you!
Block Out The World
The most appealing thing about traveling by train is enjoying the breathtakingly gorgeous landscapes by outside your window but once it dark, it’s good to block out the world and take a nap.
Hence, it is smart to grab a luxurious silk sleep mask and also a set of earplugs. Noise-canceling headphones are also a good option, especially if you enjoy falling asleep to music.
Choose The Right Bags
The best thing about traveling by train is that you don’t have to deal with stingy baggage policies as those of airlines, which is really amazing! Amtrak, for instance, allow each passenger to get onboard with two carry-on items, two checked bags, and two personal items for free! Cool!
However, you still need to pack light and avoid larger suitcases in order to make it easier for you to lift onto luggage racks and maneuver down the narrow aisles of the train.
It would be also smart if you pack your valuables including some expensive gadgets, wallet, medications, and travel documents in a small bag and keep it near your seat.
Bring Your Own Snacks
If you are a budget-conscious traveler, then, you will surely take an ordinary train and not a luxurious one! In this case, you’d better bring your own snacks as the ones you will be served in the train are overpriced and less appetizing!
Luckily, the airlines’ 3-1-1 rules for liquids are not applicable in the train! So, feel free to bring veggies, yogurt, or some healthy fruits to snack on!
Freshen Up
It is always a good idea to freshen up when taking a long train trip! This will make you feel better, cleaner, and less rumpled!
So, don’t hesitate to wipe your face with a water-free cleaning cloth, spray Listerine Pocketmist to get rid of the sour taste in your mouth, and kill off any germs you might have picked up from your armrests with a good antibacterial hand gel. Wish you a lovely trip!
