Valuable tips to enhance your train-travel experience

40SHARESFacebookTwitterStumbleuponBufferPinterestPocketGoogleWhatsappMail

The United States has an elaborate railway network managed by Amtrak. While the national rail carrier might not have access to every corner of the country, it offers an excellent and practical means of exploring the beautiful landscapes without breaking the bank. Besides, as the train reaches various stops, you can see some small, enchanting towns and a chance to interact with the locals.

What do you need to do, or how do you prepare to ensure that you enjoy your train travel? Below are some valuable tips to enhance your train-travel experience

Do Some Homework on Rail Passes

Whether you’re planning a longer trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles or booking trains from Boston to NYC, it would be best to research the various rail passes. These allow you to board the Amtrak train limitlessly over a while. For instance, a rail pass worth about $450 allows you to a maximum of eight trips over 15 days. Instead, you can purchase individual train tickets in advance, although you might not have access to some of the most common routes.

Enjoy On-Board Sleeping Facilities

Planning a road trip might be fun, but it mostly limits your traveling to day time. With a train, you can travel overnight as trains provide roomettes and bedrooms. The former is a bit compact, with double cabins that might feature a small toilet. They make an ideal option if you’re traveling with a close friend or partner since you’re well-acquainted. On the other hand, coaches are more spacious with larger enclosures with more legroom, shower, and toilet. Sleeping on a coach seat is the best option if you have a limited budget. That way, you can take advantage of the ample legroom and reclining designs.

Pack What’s Necessary

Packing lightly works, especially if you plan on having a memorable family vacation. On a train, you’ll have to carry your bags as you negotiate narrow stretches, wide gaps, and sometimes steep steps. That can make you feel worn out and tired before reaching your final destination. Remember, your train route might have several train transfers. Therefore, you need to carry luggage that you can manage by yourself. If you choose a roller suitcase, go for a narrower model to fit the narrow aisles.

Reserve a Table in the Dining Car

Your train travel within the U.S. wouldn’t be exciting without eating in the dining car. Usually, passengers have to make reservations in advance. The dining car operates at different times of the day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

The dining car might not provide the five-star dining experience you’d expect in a Pullman-style setting. Still, it has oversized windows that allow you to soak in panoramic views that spark conversations among travelers. It’s also an excellent way of chatting with locals and learning more about the region or city you’re traversing.

Train travel provides an opportunity to experience New York from a unique perspective. Adventurous travelers and hikers can catch a glimpse of the various landscapes and geographical features before they explore them in person.

In addition, trains allow you to travel whenever you prefer because multiple trains depart at different times of the day.

Do you love jumping on board as much as we do? Tell us about your favourite rail road experience in the comments below.