Traveling by train can be a really fun and relaxing adventure. Trains are a good way to travel, and the stations are usually well connected to major bus routes, allowing for easy travel all around the country. Well, although, it may take longer than travelling by air, traveling by train offers you with great ground level views of the area you are visiting. That said, lets now take a look at 10 tips for traveling by train:
- Buy Tickets in Advance -Consider buying your tickets 2 weeks in advance. You can go to the train station or to their website, and book your ticket(s) early. This might even save you some money. Don’t forget to also pack your luggage in advance so that you can simply quick grab it when it’s time to leave.
- Choose Scenic Routes – Apart from convenient and comfortable travel, the prospect of enjoying amazing views during you train journey usually makes the trip even better. Making your journey part of the overall experience adds to the appeal, and makes traveling from place to place a lot more enjoyable. Therefore, you should consider choosing scenic routes when traveling by train.
- Arrive Early – If you are traveling with your family, you’ll want to get to the train station early so that you can find good seats for the family to sit together. Reserved seats are usually available on a first come, first served basis, so if the train happens to be full, you can ask the conductor to help you seat your family. Arriving early can also help you avoid a lot of hassles since there are times when the compartments aren’t sorted correctly, and you might have to search for your particular train car.
- Get a Window Seat – Sitting on the train for days only for you to stare down the aisle, whilst the magnificent rocky mountains roll by the window is never good. When you get to the station, try and get a window seat to avoid this. You can ask the attendant which side is best to sit on; at times one side may offer much more legroom than the other.
- Pack Healthy Snacks – Some trains do have dining cars, however not all of them have good food, or the food is extremely expensive. Before getting on the train, consider buying some snacks; get healthy snacks which can take a bit of jostling, and don’t require refrigeration. Some of the best go to travel snacks include; green grapes, apples, tangerines, string cheese, and cherry tomatoes.
- Stay Fresh – In order to keep fresh, bring with you some toilet paper and wet wipes. After a long day with the canned train air, you are going to need a shower. If you train doesn’t have a shower, wet wipes will be of great help.
- Get a Sleeper – If you will be traveling by train for more than one night, consider getting a sleeper or couchette; a couchette cabin usually has about 6 beds, while a sleeper usually has 2 to 4 beds, and some facilities such as a shower or sink.
- Bring a Light Blanket and a Pillow – Although some trains provide sheets and pillows in some classes, it’s always a good idea to bring your very own pillow, and a light blanket. Depending on time of year, the train cabins can get cold, and it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality.
- Fit In – If you are a foreigner, you’ll most likely get noticed. Some locals might stare, some may try to give you snacks, and some may even sit down and chat with you. Just be friendly and remember that they are probably just curious about you, as you probably are about them and their country.
- Travel at Off Peak times – Consider traveling at off peak times; this is when the train is least crowded, meaning you might be able to get some extra seats if you are traveling with your kids.