Before taking a long-distance bus trip, make sure your plans include consideration of several key factors for comfortable and safe travel.
1. Buy your ticket well in advance of your departure date. That way you'll get a good selection of train cars, travel times, and arrival dates. Ask about advance-purchase discounts or two-for-one deals if you plan to travel with a family member or friend. Then keep your ticket in a safe place so you won't lose it. When you pack for the trip, tuck your ticket into a secure pocket of your luggage or an interior compartment of your purse.
2. Determine the traveling route and train cars that will transport you. You'll want to plan around layovers and time allocations for changing trains, along with time considerations between each leg of the journey so you can decide whether there will be time for site-seeing or shopping at various stops. Also ask which type of train car you will be in, since some have only snack cars while others provide full seated dining. Some trains provide private sleeping compartments at a higher cost for passengers who need their rest, while others offer only main seating accommodations, requiring that you sleep in a reclining seat.
3. Pack two suitcases. One should be full of things you'll need for your ultimate destination. The other should contain items for the trip itself, especially one that will take three or four days. Bring games to pass the time and cameras for taking pictures. Include non-perishable snacks like crackers and peanut butter and individually-sealed juice cartons or soda cans. You can even take along task-oriented miscellaneous like your laptop computer, a laptop writing desk, or your job-related correspondence. Don't forget a blanket and pillow for dozing unless you prefer to accept those provided by the railroad.
4. Pack a few creature comforts. Change to buy beverages, earplugs to cover noise, eye patches to keep out light, and light magazine or novel reading for entertainment might be considered in this category. You might also toss into your purse or a bag less important things like chewing gum, a map of your arrival point, and pens for writing. If children are traveling with you, have them pick out one or two favorite toys, and bring along a travel game or two.
5. Don't forget the details. Mark your suitcase with adequate but limited identification information like your first initial and last name along with a telephone number or mailing address. Pack needed telephone numbers or address locations for arriving at your destination. Convert cash to travel checks, and stash a credit card for emergencies. Let someone know your itinerary in case the train is delayed or runs into problems.
Taking the train is an exciting way to reach your travel goal. Browse the Internet or call Amtrak to find out more about train travel in your area.
