When planning a long train trip, pack your bags carefully to prepare for your travel time as well as the arrival destination.
But before you go, make a checklist of all the things you want to take with you. Then plan how to best pack these things to have them available in stages when you need them while on the journey and upon your arrival.
First, take only what you'll actually need for the trip. It may be tempting to fill suitcase after suitcase with every possible contingency item imaginable. But you'll soon regret it when you have to carry your luggage from the car to the terminal and from the terminal to your car again, as well as your ultimate arrival point. Of course, train personnel will move the luggage from the terminal to the train and back again, but you don't want to have to carry around several different bags unless it's truly necessary. In these bags, pack the things you'll need when you arrive.
Next, pack a carry-on bag with essentials for the trip. Choose a sturdy bag with compartments for organizing needed items, like food, clothes, entertainment, and health items. Don't pack the bag so full it will burst or pull a muscle when you try to carry it. Bring only what you will use for each stage of the train trip.
For example, you may want to bring an entertainment item or two that cannot be found or bought on the train. This might include magazines, books, puzzles, a wireless laptop, writing materials, or office work that you can do in your seat. Don't bring large items that not only will be hard to pack and transport, but that may get in others' way. Label all items with your initials or full name if you plan to leave them in your seat while moving about the train or going to the restroom or snack car.
Pack your own snacks and beverages. Train food comes in a limited menu and often at high cost. In contrast, you can pack individual pop-top cans of preserved fruit, fresh fruit, cereal or grain bars, bottled water, or even peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for your repast, especially if the train does not have a dining car. Bring a small trash bag to dispose of your waste instead of littering at your seat or in the aisle.
Add a small, folded blanket or head pillow if they fit in your bag. The train may offer these items, but you will have the comfort of your own if you can bring them yourself. If they won't fit, an extra jacket may serve to keep you warm during night travel or when you sleep at your seat. If you have a sleeper car, bedding is provided.
Make good use of your pockets, purse or wallet, or other clothing pouches to store items like a camera, daily medication, address list, or cell phone. However, if you don't expect to use it during the train trip, pack it with the larger pieces of luggage.
Packing in an orderly fashion can help to make the trip more efficient for your comfort. Make a packing list ahead of time and check it before leaving to be sure you haven't forgotten anything important.
