Train travel tips: Everything you need to know

Ah, the humble train journey. The thinking person’s mode of transportation, once the height of luxury and sophistication, now simply a means to an end. But it can be so much more. A mobile hotel room, restaurant, cafe, and entertainment hub all rolled into one choo-chooing package. 

Train travel was invented and pioneered by the Brits and adopted by the world during the industrial revolution of the late 1800s. There really is no rival to the simple elegance of being pulled through Europe by a giant engine in a metal and glass box, which sits on 2 surprisingly thin rails. 

Which is the best train journey in Europe?

With so many to choose from in a continent that truly keeps on giving, which is the best train journey in Europe? It’s got to be Switzerland. Whether it’s a summer sojourn on the Bernina Express, or a cosy winter adventure on the Glacier Express, you simply can’t match the balance of sheer beauty and convenience on offer. You don’t have to focus on the road, you aren’t pedalling away on a bike, how else can you see so much whilst doing so little? Let the glossy snow-capped mountains, verdant forests, and crystal clear waterways consume the entirety of your attention for a short while. 

With so much variety and possibility, it can seem daunting for the unaccustomed train traveller. So let’s cut to the chase and work our way through the essentials. 

Planning your train journey

I’m going to assume that generally speaking, you know where you want to start and end up, whether it’s in the UK, Europe, the USA, or the fabled Japanese Shinkansen. As a start, you’re going to need a train ticket. 

For the UK and Europe, start with apps like trainline for a one stop shop. These can be booked in days, weeks, even months in advance and get stored within the app for a seamless experience. The Japanese train system is a little different. 

You can set up an account with Smart EX, which is a service combining JR Central, JR West, and JR Kyushu services, which cover routes along the ‘Golden Route’ which as a tourist you are most likely to use. You can book trains up to one month in advance, or simply purchase at the station. Their system is so regular and efficient there is little need to stress. The general rule of thumb still applies that the earlier you book, the better the prices will be.

How to take the train for the first time

If you’ve never been on a train before, the basic principles are as follows:

• Buy a ticket (online or in person) 
• Scan your ticket at the turnstile 
• Get a coffee, sit back and relax nonchalantly until the train rolls in
• Take your assigned seat. If it’s an unreserved ticket, just sit anywhere that isn’t first class (usually the protocol)
• Nap/read/watch a movie/enjoy the scenery until you get there!

How early should you arrive for a train trip?

I think the answer to that question depends a lot on the person. If getting there 2 hours early is going to be more relaxing for you, by all means do so. Likewise, if 5 minutes is your comfortable limit, you do you (little daredevil). It’s not an airport, it won’t take you 45 minutes to get through security (because there isn’t really any a lot of the time). 

Just know that depending on the country and company you’re riding in, things might not run like clockwork (unless it’s Japan of course). Trains can be early, late, or not show up at all. Generally, 1 hour before departure will allow you to deal with any unforeseen issues.  

Packing essentials

Here are 10 things you should never go for a train ride without! Whether it’s an overnight extravaganza through central Europe or an express train to Kyoto, these items will serve you well: 

• Book – Take this rail journey as an opportunity to switch off from the outside world and get lost in another one
• Snacks – Because you will absolutely get peckish
• Headphones – You need a soundtrack! How else are you going to stare out the window having a main character moment? 
• Eye mask and earplugs – an absolute must for an overnighter/long haul train journey 
• Inflatable pillow/neck pillow – if comfort is king, consider this your crown 
• Change of clothes – not just in case you have an accident (food or otherwise), but you might get cold! 
• Hand sanitiser – because you’re not the first to sit in that seat…today. 
• Water bottle – hydration is key in any setting, but most importantly when travelling. Also – what else are you going to attach your new Labubu to? 
• Cash – concession carts and dining cars are your Roman empire for the next wee while, so make sure you’ve got the means to capitalise. 
• Chargers and powerbanks – having an outlet to plug into is not guaranteed! And with endless landscape shots to take for the ‘gram, you’re going to want to stay charged up.

How to travel comfortably on a train?

I think it all comes down to the little things. Your toiletries, a few wet wipes to wash your face with, and a pair of comfy shoes and comfortable clothing make it all the more bearable. Dress for the occasion as well, this isn’t the Paris runway. Your favourite set of matching sweats will go down a treat, whilst keeping you warm and cosy so you can have your ‘stare-out-the-window-main-character-moment’. 

Overnight trains are a whole different beast. Extra pillows and blankets, earplugs and your favourite leopard print eye mask will enhance your sleep experience tenfold. Your comfort will also be heavily dependent on the type of ticket you purchase for your little overnight sojourn. A standard recliner seat is the cheapest, but take it from me, not the comfiest sleep you’ll ever have. Your next step up is a shared sleeper cabin, with little beds and some smelly strangers to enjoy a confined space with. Feeling boujee? It’s a private room for you. I’ve never personally reached this echelon of travel comfort, but I’m sure it’s wonderful and I am definitely not jealous. 

Food and Drink

Depending on the type of train and duration that you’re travelling, the food and beverage offerings will vary. Overnight train from London to Scotland? Breakfast cart, and not the finest either. Japanese Shinkansen? They’ve scrapped the food service on board, so pick up an Ekiben lunch box or load up on 7-Eleven snacks beforehand. Plus, the trains are so fast you’re unlikely to perish from starvation between stops. 

If you’re on a multi-day train trip through Australia, Canada, or across the US, you will likely be limited to whatever their offerings are in the dining car, which will likely be a mixture of regional dishes as well as your more ‘beige’ selections.  

Whether you’re on a multi-day extravaganza on the Orient Express or the American Midwest, you have no reason to starve, whether it be champagne and caviar or a burger and fries. And the beauty of a train (unlike those silly planes) is that there are stations along the way you’ll stop at, giving you the opportunity to try that roadside diner or wooden château on the side of the mountain. Magnifique, no?

Staying safe

In this day and age, petty theft really is all the rage. Being in a confined space with a bunch of strangers for hours on end can be unnerving when it comes to keeping all of your possessions. A few simple things can keep you feeling comfortable and secure. 

Travelling alone? Keep your possessions within eyesight at all times, with valuables in your daypack at your feet. A padlock on your backpack can also help to deter those feeling light-fingered. You could also befriend your neighbour and agree to a mutually beneficial anti-theft alliance, watching each other’s stuff while you use the toilet etc. 

With a friend already? The same tips apply. Padlock your bag, keep it all within arm’s reach, use common sense. If you have a shared or private cabin booked, even better! You should have valuables storage under your bed or in a locker. 

Mind the train stations. Some of them might be pretty, but pretty can be distracting. Stay focussed on your possessions and keep your phone secure.

Long distance journeys tend to be less risky than urban commuter trains, but it still pays to keep your wits about you. Losing a phone, passport, or sock full of yen can really put a dampener on your hot girl summer. 

Tips for the thrifty

I hear you, money is hard to come by and dangerously easy to spend. How can you save on unnecessary luxuries while still making the most of your rail journey? 

• Planning. Know where you’re starting and where you’re going and book as far in advance as you feasibly can. The early bird always gets the worm. 
• Lower your standards. If you think you can manage an overnight train in a seat rather than a cabin, you’ll have enough spare cash for a massage and an upmarket meal to help you forget the ordeal. 
• Be prepared. Everything from bringing your own food and drink, to packing all the essential accessories you won’t have to purchase again can very quickly add up. Oh, and if you have large luggage pieces, book a ticket that includes storage for these, otherwise you could face an on-the-spot fee. 

What is the cheapest way to travel across Europe by train?

Again, this is very subjective, and depends upon how much travel you are doing and how many train trips that includes. If you’re doing lots of train travel, don’t know your itinerary, and want to stay flexible, a Eurail pass might well be more cost effective. With a set price for a set amount of travel days, it will allow you to book wherever you want, whenever you decide where you’re going. 

Type A individuals are probably still trying to lower their heart rate after reading that, but don’t fret you organised individuals. Advanced purchase tickets to suit a fixed itinerary are often cheaper than the overall cost of a Eurail pass (depending on the trip of course), so if you know where you’re going and when, book away. 

How much does a train ride across the US cost?

The good ol’ US of A. What better way to venture across such a vast expanse than by rail? It’s how the west was won after all. Amtrak is a good starting point for inclusive rail experiences, varying greatly, from 5 days for as little as $1,600 USD to a month all over the continent for close to $9,000 USD. These rail journeys tend to include hotel stays, some meals, and experiences at your various destinations along the way. Train services such as dining are generally offered on these journeys (for a price), and don’t forget to tip! 

Etiquette

Etiquette will vary heavily depending on the country and culture in which you are immersed in. General guidance around how to act as a decent human being is as follows: 

• Keep the noise down 
• Be respectful and considerate 
• Use headphones (I shouldn’t have to tell you this)
• Be friendly and try to help those struggling with heavy luggage (with their permission, don’t just pick up someone’s bag and run away with it).

More regional etiquette you may not be aware of: 

• Japan: Emphasis on being respectful and polite. Don’t sit on the ground at the platform, and it’s also said not to put heavy luggage overhead onboard. Probably best not to Facetime your mum on the train either, talking loudly is very much discouraged. 
• UK: They absolutely love to queue. Get in line and don’t push in if you value your life. Make sure you make room for people getting off the train, another basic one that people tend to forget.
• Quiet Car: If you find yourself in a quiet carriage… probably be quiet? The clue is in the name.

I hope that this has put some of your minds at ease. Train travel is an amazing way to get around, and offers so many more aura points than conventional plane, boat, bus, and car travel. And the best part? You can have your unforgettable multi-day train trip with Contiki! You’ll never have to Choo Choo alone again. You are the ultimate passenger princess for as long as you’re on board, which can be anything from a few hours to weeks at a time! You get a bed (sometimes, if you pay for it), food, a view, and most importantly in today’s world…time. So switch off your phone and look out the window, there’s plenty to see.