- TODAY Plaza
- Share this —
- Watch Full Episodes
- Read With Jenna
- Inspirational
- Relationships
- TODAY Table
- Newsletters
- Start TODAY
- Shop TODAY Awards
- Citi Concert Series
- Listen All Day
Follow today
More Brands
- On The Show
Traveling by train? Experts suggest packing these essentials for the ride
All aboard! Travel is officially back in full swing and many wanderlusters are electing to catch the nearest passenger train for a traffic-free (and cost-effective ) vacation. But whether you’re eager to head on the “Rock N Roll Train” or the “Midnight Train to Georgia,” it is imperative to arrive at the station with all the necessary travel accessories to warrant a smoother ride along the tracks.
From top-rated makeup bags to comfortable footwear , we’ve found several essentials to pack for your next train trip to guarantee a successful excursion. We also spoke to true experts to get the lowdown on how to master train travel, whether you’re a novice or a repeat rider.
Why train travel? | Expert tips for packing | Train travel must-haves | What to consider for overnight trips | Overnight must-haves | How we chose | Meet the experts
Why should you consider train travel for your next trip?
“[For starters,] the ability to travel with small pets within the U.S., a café car, large spacious seats with ample leg room, no middle seat and some of the best views of the country you can’t see anywhere else,” says Amtrak senior public relations manager Jason Abrams. “In addition, traveling on the train is a lot more sustainable than car and plane for those who are conscious of the carbon footprint ."
“Traveling by train is often a less stressful experience than flying and takes less of a physical toll on the body, as well,” suggests Gingerlily founder Deborah Fiddy. “Being based in London, this is especially true when traveling within the UK and Europe. Also, you simply can’t beat the view of the landscape from a train window — it can be very therapeutic!”
Expert tips for packing for a train trip
Stay connected.
If you’re traveling on a passenger train, you will certainly want constant access to your electronic devices. “With an outlet available at every seat, bring your chargers so you can stay connected and power your devices,” suggests Abrams. “This also makes headphones essential for listening to music or a podcast or watching your favorite movie.”
Don’t leave home without…
Whether your goal is to pack weeks ahead or last-minute, you’ll want to be sure to bring these items recommended by Abrams:
Books, a deck of cards, a journal, binoculars and a camera to capture the passing landscapes.
Comfortable shoes are a good idea so you can walk around and move around the train.
Travel documents and IDs are needed for travel, as well.
Abrams also suggests consulting the Amtrak website before leaving home, as it specifically identifies items that are prohibited onboard.
“When traveling by train, it's important to pack items that will help combat the less desirable side effects of travel, such as dry skin, dull hair and fatigue,” recommends Fiddy.
“It’s also a good idea to pack a pair of earplugs and a good book to block out any unwanted noise and help pass the time. With these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a comfortable and relaxing journey,” Fiddy adds.
Advice for first-time train travelers
If you’re a rookie when it comes to train travel, Abrams suggests remembering a few other tips to ensure a smoother trip:
Arrive early so you have time to locate your platform and ready any bags you want to have checked.
Only pack what you can carry unless you're checking it.
If you're in search of a place to unwind during your train ride, Quiet Cars are available onboard many corridors and short-distance trains. In a Quiet Car, phone calls are not allowed, conversations are limited and low overheard lighting is used.
Products to shop for train travel
Sea-band acupressure wristband.
Acupressure Wristband for Motion & Morning Sickness
Washable? Yes | Reusable? Yes
Do you suffer from motion sickness? Fear no more! These acupressure wristbands are clinically proven to relieve nausea while traveling, according to the brand. Each package comes in a set of two as one should be worn on each wrist to work effectively.
Classic Embossed Travel Journal Diary
Colorways: 7 | Pages: 160 | Special features: Refillable
Document your travels by writing down or illustrating all the landmarks you witness en route to your final destination with this embossed notebook. Featuring a compass on the cover, this travel diary is made of high quality pu leather and is super durable to hold long-lasting memories.
“I love the quality, and the vintage look and feel of the leather cover and the archaic, rustic coarse pages. I almost don't want to write in it,” said one verified buyer.
Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024
Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2024
What's better than a good book to keep you busy during a long train ride? If you're a b ook lover who has been bitten by the travel bug, you will love this bestseller from Lonely Planet. Experts selected five ranked lists of the top 10 destinations to visit in 2024. Whether your next vacation destination is Paris or Philadelphia, you'll surely appreciate learning more about these memorable places.
Travel Makeup Train Case
Cosmetic Case Organizer
Colorways: 16 | Sizes: 4 (S-XL) | Lining: Nylon
Safely store all your toiletries while traveling with this bestselling cosmetic case. Made of high-quality Oxford fabric, this makeup bag includes enough storage space for including your favorite lipstick, foundation, mascara and more.
“Its durability and good quality has made it easy to travel with, and it withstands any bumpy rides. It is also easy to clean any stains that may arise - a huge plus!,” adds one five-star reviewer.
Anker Portable Charger
Portable Charger
Battery capacity: 10,000mAh | Compatible with: Most phone providers
Have you ever been streaming your favorite sitcom when your phone suddenly runs out of power? Always keep your devices fully charged with this Anker power bank that is Amazon’s Choice for portable chargers.
“This large capacity and slim profile battery pack is great to have on hand for emergencies, whenever there is a prolonged power outage, or when traveling and you don't have easy access to a power outlet,” one satisfied customer said. “I charge my phone daily and rarely need an external battery pack, but this has come in handy whenever there is a power outage and during travel.”
Darn Tough Vermont Blossom Crew Lightweight Lifestyle Sock
Blossom Crew Lightweight Sock
Colorways: 2 | Sizes: S-L | Materials: Merino wool, nylon, lycra spandex
Keep your feet warm and cozy with these crew socks that are made of odor-repellent materials and designed for long-lasting comfort. These lightweight socks are the ideal option for traveling as they are performance fit, which means no slipping or bunching.
National Parks Playing Cards
Dimensions: 4 3/8" L x 3 1/4" W x 1 1/2" H
It’s game time! Stay entertained on a long train ride with these National Parks Service playing cards. Each card includes a vintage-style photograph of one of our many acclaimed parks. We have no doubt you’ll ace this round!
Hydro Flask Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap
32 oz Wide Mouth with Flex Straw Cap
Colorways: 12 | Dishwasher-safe? Yes
Stay hydrated from morning to night with this 32-ounce wide mouth water bottle from Hydro Flask. This BPA-free bottle features a leakproof flex straw cap and keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and hot up to 12 hours. Now available in pastel shades like dew and grapefruit, personalization is also available on the brand’s site so you’ll never lose your water bottle again!
Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set
Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set of 3
Colorways: 4 | Material: Recycled 300D Poly fabric, recycled double diamond poly mesh | Water-resistant? Yes
Keep all your clothes wrinkle- and stain-free with this set of "deceptively roomy" compression cubes, a recent Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winner . Pack all your essentials into these cubes that can be zipped up to flatten. They also feature handles on the exterior to make them easily accessible if you're digging around your luggage.
Quince SuperSoft Wide Leg Pants
SuperSoft Fleece Wide Leg Pants
Colorways: 4 | Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Tencel™/modal, recycled polyester, rayon, spandex
Feel like you’re wearing pajamas with these laidback drawstring slacks. Another recent Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winner for best budget travel pants , these super soft, eco-conscious bottoms are designed to offer plenty of stretch to fit all shapes and sizes.
Dr. Scholl's Jetset Slip-Ons
Women's Jetset Slip-On Wedge Loafer
Colorways: 12 | Sizes: 6-11 | Heel height: 3/4"
These lightweight slip-ons from Dr. Scholl's earned raves from Shop TODAY Travel Gear Award testers for comfortable features like their built-in arch support, molded heel cup and anti-microbial foam footbed, landing a spot on the winners list for Best Budget Walking Shoes .
Modern Picnic The Pouch
Material: Vegan leather | Dimensions : 11” L x 4.5” D x 10” H
It’s no doubt you’ll start to get extra hungry on a long trip without packing a few yummy snacks . The pouch from Modern Picnic is the adult lunchbox you never knew you needed until now. This vegan leather exterior and insulated interior pouch is the perfect contraption for storing all your favorite fruits, veggies, nuts and more.
Dagne Dover Vida Cotton Tote Bag
Vida Cotton Tote Bag
Material: Organic cotton canvas | Dimensions: 18.5” L x 6.25” W x 14” H
Keep all your carry-on essentials close with this cotton “weekender” bag from Dagne Dover. This 100% vegan tote contains no pesticides, GMOs or pollutants, according to the brand, and features a wipeable interior lining. If you’re looking for a space to safely store your computer, this chic tote will also fit most 16” laptops in its interior slip pocket.
What to know about overnight train travel
If you’re traveling overnight on the train, it's important to bring items to keep you extra comfortable and help you get some decent shut-eye . Abrams suggests keeping the following in mind to make your evening on the train more relaxing:
Stretch before sleeping. "Before settling in for the night, take a few minutes to get up and stretch your muscles...This will help you relax and reduce the risk of cramping and stiffness. If you wish to be more discreet about your stretching, there are plenty of effective stretches that can be done while seated , especially for your neck and shoulders."
Bring a neck pillow. "A neck pillow can make a huge difference in your comfort level when sleeping in Coach. It will help you keep your head and neck relaxed, reducing the risk of stiffness or pain. You can make more comfortable use of sleeping in a forward position while resting on your arms atop the folding table in the seat back in front of you when you come equipped with a neck pillow."
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. "Loose-fitting clothes that are made of breathable fabrics (think: athleisure) will be your best bet for feeling cool and unrestricted as you sleep. Likewise, your shoes should feel equally comfortable so it’s important to wear ones you can sleep in."
Block out distractions. "If you are a light sleeper, earplugs and an eye mask can help you block out noise and light, creating a more comfortable sleeping environment — this is especially helpful if a Quiet Car isn’t available to you. If you’re the type of sleeper who needs white noise like a box fan to help mute your brain, you’ll probably find that the general ambient train sounds will suffice."
Pack a blanket. " Whether or not you’re traveling in the winter months, the added comfort of a soft blanket goes a long way toward a restful night on the train."
Skip the towels and sheets. " If you have a sleeper car reservation, there are linens provided for you. Just like a hotel!"
Save room for special toiletries. " We [also] provide shampoo, soap and bottled water in all of our rooms. If your beauty regimen requires something special , please be sure to bring it. That includes, toothpaste, mouthwash, body lotion, hair conditioner, hair spray/gel, hairdryers and shower caps. The best part about traveling by train? No liquids restrictions!"
Products to shop for overnight train travel
Alaska bear silk sleep mask.
Silk Sleep Mask
Material: Organic mulberry silk | Hypoallergenic? Yes
This sleep mask and eye relaxer with 28,000+ verified five-star ratings is designed to reduce friction and prevent marks that could cause wrinkles, according to the brand. You’ll wake up refreshed and rejuvenated while ready to take on whatever the day has in store for you.
Bedsure Fleece Throw Blanket
Fleece Throw Blanket
Colorways: 28 | Size: 50” x 60”
Snuggle up in your seat while bingeing on your new favorite streaming show with this comfortable, lightweight fleece blanket. This soft, warm flannel maintains the perfect balance between weight and warmth, so you won’t be left shivering.
“Seams are even so the blanket folds well. It's super soft so everyone wants this blanket. Still soft and no fading after a few washes. I recommend this blanket!” said one verified reviewer.
LED Neck Reading Light
Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light
Charge length: Up to 80 hours | Brightness levels: 3 | Special features: Rechargeable
Dying to finish the last 50 pages of your juicy romance novel? You won’t have to wait until morning for the ending to be revealed with this neck reading light. Each head has an independent switch for three brightness levels and is rechargeable for up to 80 hours of reading time. The LED light features a special narrow beam angle (90 degree) design, so it is bright enough to easily read the words on the page while dim enough to not disturb your neighbor.
Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo
Perk Up Dry Shampoo
Size: 5.3 ounces | Hair type: Oily
A Shop TODAY Beauty Awards winner for best overall dry shampoo, this talc-free product is designed to absorb excess oil to prevent greasy hair. This shampoo has 12,000+ verified five-star reviews on Amazon and is designed to add volume to your hair.
"I have used this product for years. I always have it in my travel kit and it’s great pick up even if you are going to wet shampoo later. Smells fabulous!" said one verified reviewer .
Cabeau Evolution Earth Neck Pillow
Evolution Earth Neck Pillow
Material: Memory foam | Washable? Yes; cover only
Get some much-needed shut-eye with this evolution Earth neck pillow from Cabeau. With its memory foam core and 360-degree support, this sustainable neck pillow features soft, eco-friendly RPET fabric made from recycled plastic bottles. This super comfortable pillow features raised side supports, chin strap technology and a slim flattened back.
Loop Earplugs Experience Plus
Experience Plus (Pro)
Colorways: 4 | Reusable? Yes | Ear tip sizes: S-XL
Lay back and drift off to the sweet sounds of silence with these reusable Loop earplugs. With up to 18 dB of filtered noise reduction, these earplugs are designed to keep your ears safe and come with four interchangeable ear tip sizes for an optimal fit.
“What I love most about Loop Quiet is how easy and comfortable they are to wear," one Shop TODAY writer said about her experience wearing these. "With foam earplugs, I have to roll them, insert them into the ear canal and then wait for them to expand. To wear these, you simply pop them into your ear canal, making sure the entire silicone tip is inserted, then twist the loop handle up to create the seal."
Beis The Carry-On Roller
Beis The Carry-On Roller in Beige
Colorways: 7 | Dimensions: 15.7" W x 22.8" H x 9.8" D
This carry-on suitcase by Beis is certainly pretty in pink... or any of the other six colors it is available in. Featuring 360-degree wheels and an expandable body, this darling roller will easily store all your train travel essentials.
"This carry-on looks chic, sophisticated and like you paid a lot more for it than you actually did. I’d been eyeing it since it was first announced that the color Maple would be coming out soon but it kept selling out before I could purchase it. I jumped at the chance when it came back on restock and I’m glad I did. You’ll be a standout walking through the airport," said one verified five-star reviewer.
How we chose
The items to pack were chosen based on expert insights, market research and verified customer reviews. We selected products that offered comfort for long trips on the train and also would aid in uninterrupted rest for passengers traveling overnight.
Meet the experts
- Jason Abrams is the senior public relations manager for Amtrak .
- Deborah Fiddy is an entrepreneur and founder of Gingerlily , which specializes in silk-based travel and bedding products.
Allie Wise is an associate editor for Shop TODAY.
How to Pack for Overnight Train Trips: Everything First-Timers Should Know
By Kaitlyn McInnis
All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Traveling by rail has long been regarded as a sustainable way to commute between cities, but long-distance and overnight train trips have been enjoying a renaissance of their own recently.
More and more travelers are opting for this sophisticated, slowed down form of transportation. Unlike flying or even driving, train travel allows passengers to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the shifting landscape that would otherwise go by in a blur. And while train travel in North America has become more accessible and comfortable over the past few years, there’s still a lot to consider in preparation for a long-distance ride.
For those new to the mode of travel, we’ve compiled everything you need to know and plan for when embarking on a voyage by rail. Whether you’re hopping onboard for a quick overnighter between states or are heading out on an unforgettable multi-day ride across the country, here are our best tips on how to pack for overnight train trips to ensure your journey is smooth and comfortable.
Amtrak's Coast Starlight runs from Los Angeles up to Seattle.
Find the right route
Train travel planning step one: choose your route. You likely know Amtrak as an established option for getting from point A to point B practically and efficiently, but you may not know that the train operator also offers a handful of bucket-list worthy routes across North America.
The Amtrak Coast Starlight takes riders along the Pacific Ocean shoreline and weaves through California and Washington State. Alternatively, the Amtrak Cascades takes passengers through Western Canada and into the lush Oregon landscape. Canada’s Via Rail also offers a wide variety of itineraries north of the border that take passengers from coast to coast, starting in Nova Scotia and snaking through the country to the Rocky Mountains and beyond.
Establish a luggage strategy
“Packing for a train trip can be easy—almost as easy as forgetting something while packing,” says Catherine Leblanc, Clefs d'Or Concierge at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City. “To avoid forgetting anything, I suggest laying the content of the bag on the bed first and then starting in an orderly manner to begin packing.” (A wise tip for any type of vacation.)
Leblanc suggests packing two distinct bags: a small, durable rolling suitcase like the Delsey Paris Chatelet hardside spinner and a compact backpack like the Herschel Little America laptop backpack for smaller items. This approach makes essentials like electronics, books, a wallet, and snacks accessible throughout the trip. If you’re sleeping on the train and have to check your bag upon arrival, you’ll want to have toiletries and pajamas readily accessible in your carry-on, too.
To free up space in your suitcase, Leblanc swears by Samsonite Compression Packing Bags . Not only do packing cubes make it easy to organize your suitcase, but they will also make it possible to squeeze more possessions into a smaller bag. (Larger suitcases can sometimes be tough to store on trains.)
Leblanc suggests using tissue paper to line the suitcase in between every layer of clothing to avoid getting clothes wrinkled—this is especially useful if your train itinerary spans multiple days.
Keep in mind that train travel is more flexible than air travel in terms of regulating what you can and cannot bring aboard. Most train operators permit full-sized liquids, aerosols, and razors, which makes packing personal care items much easier. That said, you should still double check the baggage limitations of the company you’ve booked with before you embark on your trip to avoid having to discard any personal care items or accessories upon boarding.
Don't skimp on entertainment
The slowly shifting landscape can only provide entertainment for so long, so you’ll want to come equipped with enough boredom-busters to get you through the less scenic stretches (this is even more true if kids are coming along).
Note that there are no seat-back entertainment systems on trains, so you’ll want to arrive with a fully charged laptop or tablet if you’re hoping to spend the trip watching movies. Not all trains have reliable Wi-Fi, so a high-speed pocket Wi-Fi might be worth the investment, especially if you’re hoping to work onboard. Most trains do have individual electrical outlets built into each seat, but a heavy-duty power bank is a wise investment to ensure your gear is fully juiced up no matter what.
The train is a great place to lose yourself in thoughts and daydreams as you gaze out the window. Bring along a notebook and smudge-proof pen to jot down ideas along the way. Readers will want to bring along a novel or e-reader , and can also load up a phone with audiobooks to listen to while watching the landscape pass by.
Have snacks at the ready
Most trains have a café or bar car and a dining car that sells snacks and warm meals. That said, like plane food, most meals and beverages sold on trains are more expensive than normal, and, to make matters more complicated, many trains only accept cash.
As such, it’s worth making the space in your carry-on for at least a small back-up supply of mess-free snacks that can tide you over in between stops—think Clif Bars or Kind Protein Bars —in case you do run into issues with restricted payment methods or a closed dining car.
Jessica Puckett
Hannah Towey
Karthika Gupta
You’ll also want to bring enough beverages to stay hydrated for the duration of your trip. Most train cars have small potable water fountains for passengers to use, but it’s still a good idea to bring a few bottles of sealed drinking water or a self-cleaning and purifying water bottle as a backup. Electrolyte tablets are another great low-space addition to have on hand.
A little preparation goes a long way on overnight stays.
Settle in for a good night's sleep
If you’re embarking on a particularly long train ride and are not splurging on a sleeper car, you’ll want to ensure you’re packing enough comfortable personal essentials—and that they are easily accessible throughout the ride. A multi-day or overnight trip might seem daunting at first, but you’d be surprised by how comfortable a train seat can be with the right planning.
“Whether I'm overnighting on a train, a bus, or a plane, I always travel with ear plugs and eye masks (both a primary and backup), as they help ensure a good night's sleep,” says Dan Meyer, founder and director at Back&Pack . “ Noise canceling headphones are also great—especially if you need some quiet time to wind down.”
You’ll also want to bring sanitary wipes to feel fresh and clean for the entire trip.
“I always have a small pack of Water Wipes with me when I travel long-distance on a train,” Meyer says. “They help you feel clean after a hectic travel day, and they don't contain chemicals that make you feel sticky, so you can use them to wipe down your face—even your body—and feel refreshed when a nice shower is unavailable.”
Antibacterial wipes are also a must-have, as they kill germs and help you ward off sickness.
“I often wipe down train restrooms before use,” Meyer says. “This gives me a bit more peace of mind when I'm surrounded by a lot of other travelers.”
Then there’s the question of sleep. Most economy class train seats are larger than the average airplane seat, which already sets you up for a more comfortable night. But train operators don't usually provide blankets or pillows—so it’s worthwhile to pack your own neck pillow (or a full-sized pillow ) and folding travel blanket , even if it adds some bulk to your carry-on. Trains frequently drop in temperature come evening, so pack a comfortable, loose-fitting hoodie or a wearable blanket if you’re prone to getting chilly while sleeping.
All in all, a little preparation goes a long way, and we’re more confident and excited than ever in the ease, comfort, and beauty of train travel .
IMAGES
VIDEO