Train Travel Is Back in Fashion: 5 Hacks to Relax on the Tracks

As a lifelong lover of trains and a fervent ferroequinologist, I try to travel by rail whenever possible. I’ve done some of my best thinking to the harmonious clacking of wheels against the tracks. The sound is like a soothing heartbeat vibrating through every inch of the car, filling it with a comforting sense of progress.

As General Counsel to the Board of Directors of MARTA, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, I’m proud of the role both light and heavy rail has played in Georgia’s history. And I’m excited about our future. The 2022 bipartisan infrastructure bill designated $66 billion for expanding the country’s rail network over the next 15 years. The plan is to add 160 stations across the country, increase riders by an estimated 20 million, and cut U.S. transportation emissions by leaps and bounds.

All this means that train travel is beginning to pick up steam as it rolls back into fashion. Maybe this year, you, too, will have the urge to get out of your car and experience the magic of trains. If you find the idea intriguing, here are five train travel tips I have learned and used to make my trips as comfortable as possible.

1. Embrace the Adventure

Modern-day train travel reminds me of a time in the not-so-distant past when families would box up all their earthly possessions and climb onto the belching iron horse in search of a brighter future in a faraway place. Today, there is less belching and more Wi-Fi, but the romance of gliding through the American countryside remains captivating.

Train travel isn’t just a trip — it’s an adventure. If you allow yourself to snuggle up to the nostalgia, sink into the old-timey charm, and let the train be a supporting character in your journey, you can have a rollicking good time.

2. Pick Your Spot Wisely

Unlike car or air travel, picking your train seat doesn’t just involve the window versus aisle dilemma. You also get to choose between forward-facing and rear-facing seats. If you struggle with motion sickness, go for a forward-facing window seat.

Depending on availability and your budget, if you spend the night on the train, try to book a roomette or sleeper cabin. Arriving at your destination refreshed is generally worth the higher price. If all the jostling won’t let you sleep, use the roomette’s bottom bunk, which will be slightly less bumpy than the top.

3. Dress to Rail

A train trip is an excellent time to ignore your inner fashionista and lean heavily into comfort. Leave the skinny jeans and high heels in your luggage, and opt for your stretchiest fabrics and most relaxed fits.

Make sure your outfit is easy to adjust with any temperature swings. High-rise leggings make it easy to slip another layer on quickly if it gets cold. Bring a snug pair of slippers that you can use for bathroom runs and spontaneous train exploration.

4. Bring Along Other Essentials

When packing for your adventure, remember that a train can be a bit of a bubble. Here are some essentials to help you thrive in your self-contained universe:

? Seat cushion or lumbar pillow to keep your back pain-free

? Soft blanket to wrap up in when the temperature drops

? Inflatable foot pillow if you have shorter legs

? Digital entertainment, like a device full of music, books, and movies

? Extra battery pack in case you can’t find a power outlet

? Analog entertainment, like paper-back books, travel games, and cards

? Plenty of nonperishable snacks

? Refillable water bottle or thermos

? Eye mask and ear plugs to help you sleep

5. Take Walking Breaks at Longer Stops

Besides the shorter stops, your train will take a 10 or 15-minute break at certain stations every so often. Use these longer breaks to stretch your legs on terra firma and walk outside. This will help make long-haul trips more bearable.

Check your schedule to see which stops have different arrival and departure times, or listen to the announcement as the train is slowing. And, of course, don’t forget to take your ticket stub with you.

Enjoy the ride!