Whenever you are travelling somewhere, the method you choose to get there can make or break a trip. Driving and flying are usually more stressful, whereas train travel allows you to sit back and enjoy the ride. Here are some tips for you if you are a first-time train traveler.
Book in advance
To make your journey as economical as possible, book in advance. Advance tickets are usually released 12 weeks in advance and are the best way to save money and keep organised. Even if you are travelling to the airport, getting the train can help keep the costs down as you won’t have to pay for petrol or a taxi, or parking. Many train lines will allow you to reserve seats as well depending on when you travel. This will help ease the worry of being able to get a seat. Ensure you have all your tickets ready before you get to the station. This will help things to run smoothly at the barriers. Some train lines use different apps so you can keep your ticket on your phone.
Arrive early
Arriving at your station early can help to keep things on track. You should aim to arrive 30 minutes before your train departs. By giving yourself some extra wriggle room, you will have time to make sure you are on the right platform, get any snacks before boarding and get your bags organized.
Bring snacks
Good quality snacks are essential when travelling. Whilst many trains will have a food car or snack cart that comes through the carriages at certain times, you cannot be sure that they will contain exactly what you fancy when you fancy it. By stocking up before you get on board you can have a good selection to see you through your journey and they will often cost less than on the train.
Only pack what you can carry
When you travel by rail, you will often find yourself lugging your bags up and down steps, escalators and along narrow platforms. It is important to bear this in mind when you are packing. You may want to consider splitting your luggage between a suitcase with wheels and a large backpack. You can organise by putting your essentials in the backpack, meaning you will have easy access to them on the train and can stow them under a seat or in the overhead rack. Your suitcase should contain heavy or bulky items such as clothes and shoes, as it can be left in the luggage racks which are usually located near the doors. This means you will be able to grab them easily as you leave the train.
Be comfy
Travelling is always more enjoyable when you are comfortable. Trains can be air-conditioned and therefore cold, so if you feel the cold you should layer up. Equally, if you are travelling in summer you may have the opposite problem, so be prepared to take layers off. Investing in a good travel pillow will also work in your favour. Being able to doze off, especially on a nighttime train, will help you feel refreshed and excited about your adventure.