Airfares are high. Driving long-distance is stressful. Taking the bus sounds like a nightmare. What's a traveler to do?
The answer is train travel. Particularly in countries with high gas prices, train travel is an affordable, relaxing alternative to driving or flying. Of course, train travel is slower than flying and can take longer than traveling by car, but you never have to worry about getting lost or figuring out how to put gas into your rental vehicle. You can relax and watch the world go by, enjoying the scenery instead of fretting over maps.
If train travel is a distant memory or, perhaps, a completely new experience, here are some tips to help you make the most of your railroad adventure.
- Find out about baggage restrictions before you book your trip, particularly if you're planning to bring large pieces of luggage or sports equipment. Checked baggage service may not be available on all trains.
- If you take medication that must be kept cold, contact your rail carrier to find out if you can obtain ice for your cooler en route. Some trains have electrical outlets, so you may be able to bring a plug-in mini cooler. Always ask about the availability of electrical outlets – don't assume they will be available in every car on a train.
- Do some online research or consult a reliable travel guidebook to find out how the train system works in your destination country. Learn about classes of travel, senior discounts, seat reservations (and the fees you'll need to pay to reserve a seat), ticket validation, train travel safety, food availability and accessible travel before you buy your ticket. If possible, memorize or write down some train vocabulary words, such as "ticket," "platform," "arrival," "departure," "delay," "strike," and "restroom."
- Plan for delays. If you need to change trains, leave plenty of time to do so. Your first train may arrive late, or your second train may arrive at a different platform from the one posted on the "departures" sign. Give yourself enough time to get from train to train.
- Travel light. You normally have to handle your luggage yourself. Most luggage storage areas are overhead or under your seat.
- Secure your bag with a lock. You may have to store it on a rack in the hallway.
- Don't forget your tickets and ID. Carry them and your other valuables with you, and wear a money belt if you are traveling overnight or in countries known for petty crime. Never pack valuables in your checked luggage.
- Bring things to do – books, cards, personal CD player or iPod with headphones – if your journey will last several hours.
- Pack some food and beverages if you're traveling during mealtimes or if you have a health condition that requires you to eat at regular intervals.
- Bring a blanket and pillow if you think you'll need them.
- Bring hand sanitizer or towelettes. Train restrooms, while cleaned regularly in most countries, are used by many people.
Most importantly, relax and enjoy the trip. Watch the scenery. Chat with your conductor. Check out the view from the club car. Wave back if pedestrians wave at your train. Take advantage of this opportunity to really see the country rather than glancing at interstates and rest areas. Your train journey may become one of the most cherished memories of your entire trip.
