If you’ve always enjoyed weekend getaways and spending time outdoors but have never taken a long-distance train ride, you’re in for a unique experience! Train travel offers a slower, more relaxed way to see the world, letting you soak in scenic landscapes, meet new people, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

You might be thinking, “A three-day train trip sounds amazing, but where do I even start? What do I pack? What’s it like to sleep on a train?” If that sounds familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many first-time train travelers have the same questions.

The good news is, preparing for a multi-day train trip is easier than you think, and I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make your first long-distance train adventure smooth and enjoyable.

1. Choosing Your Route: What’s the Best Trip for You?

One of the most exciting parts of planning a train trip is choosing your route. Are you dreaming of traveling across wide-open plains, through mountain ranges, or alongside a picturesque coastline? In the U.S., some popular long-distance train routes include:

Amtrak’s California Zephyr: This route takes you from Chicago to San Francisco, crossing the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada.

Amtrak’s Coast Starlight: Travel from Seattle to Los Angeles, passing through lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and major cities.

Amtrak’s Empire Builder: Running from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, this route is famous for its views of the Rocky Mountains and Glacier National Park.

Each of these journeys will take you about three days, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy both the scenery and the onboard experience.

Personal Tip: If you’re new to long train rides, start with a route that has a good mix of landscapes and interesting stops. The Coast Starlight is great for outdoor lovers who want to see both mountains and coastline, while the California Zephyr offers stunning mountain views for anyone who loves the outdoors.

2. What to Expect on a Long Train Ride

If you’ve never been on a train for more than a short local ride, you might wonder, “What will I actually do for three days on a train?” Don’t worry! There’s more to train travel than just sitting in your seat and watching the world go by (though that part can be very relaxing!).

Here’s what to expect:

Plenty of Space: Unlike airplanes, trains give you a lot more legroom, even in coach class. You’ll be able to move around freely, stretch out, and make yourself comfortable.

Scenic Views: One of the biggest highlights of a train trip is the ever-changing scenery. Whether you’re passing through mountains, deserts, or small towns, the views are always spectacular.

Dining Cars and Lounges: Most long-distance trains have a dining car where you can sit down for meals or grab a quick snack. There are also observation or lounge cars with large windows—perfect for enjoying the view or meeting fellow travelers.

Social Atmosphere: If you’re feeling social, trains are a great way to meet new people. Many travelers strike up conversations in the lounge cars or dining areas, sharing stories and travel tips.

Sleeping Options: Depending on your budget and comfort level, you can either book a coach seat, which reclines, or upgrade to a sleeper car. Sleeper cars give you a private space to rest, and some even include meals in the price.

Pro Tip: If you’re nervous about sleeping in a coach seat, consider booking a sleeper car. It’s a little more expensive but can make your trip much more comfortable, especially if you’re a light sleeper.

3. What to Pack: Essentials for a Comfortable Trip

Packing for a three-day train trip is a little different from packing for other types of travel. You’ll want to bring a mix of comfort items, entertainment, and practical necessities.

Here’s a list of must-have items for your first long-distance train trip:

Comfortable Clothes: Since you’ll be sitting for long periods, pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Layers are key, as the temperature on the train can fluctuate.

Travel Pillow and Blanket: Even if you’re in a sleeper car, it’s nice to have your own pillow and blanket for extra comfort. In coach, these are a must!

Snacks and Drinks: While the dining car offers meals, bringing your own snacks and a refillable water bottle can save money and keep you satisfied between meals.

Entertainment: Pack a book, download podcasts, or bring a tablet loaded with movies or shows. Wi-Fi may be spotty on some routes, so download content in advance.

Personal Toiletries: Don’t forget travel-size toiletries, hand sanitizer, and baby wipes for quick freshening up. If you’re in coach, you might want a toothbrush, face wash, and a small towel.

Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered up by bringing a portable charger. While some trains have outlets at every seat, it’s best to have a backup.

Personal Tip: It’s a good idea to bring extra reading material or download more podcasts than you think you’ll need. You can never have too much entertainment.

4. Food on the Train: To Bring or Not to Bring?

You might be wondering about meals on the train. Long-distance trains usually have a dining car where you can order breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a café car that offers snacks, coffee, and light meals.

If you’re in a sleeper car, your meals are typically included in the ticket price, which is a nice bonus. In coach class, you’ll need to purchase your meals or bring your own food. The dining car menu can be a bit pricey, so many travelers like to pack some food to supplement their meals.

What kind of food should you bring?

• Easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, trail mix, fruit, or sandwiches.
• Meals that don’t need to be refrigerated, like pre-packaged salads or wraps.
• Instant noodles or oatmeal if you have access to hot water (available in the café car).

Pro Tip: Bring a mix of snacks and plan to buy at least one meal a day in the dining car. It’s fun to treat yourself to a hot meal while watching the scenery roll by, and it also gives you a chance to meet other travelers.

5. Sleeping on the Train: How to Get a Good Night’s Rest

For many first-time train travelers, one of the biggest concerns is sleeping. “Will I be able to sleep on the train? Is it noisy? Will I feel cramped?”

The good news is, you can definitely get a good night’s rest on a train, as long as you’re prepared.

If you’re in a sleeper car:

You’ll have a private space with a bed or bunk. Sleeper cars come with blankets and pillows, but you can bring your own for extra comfort.

The train offers a gentle rocking motion that many people find soothing. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can help block out any train noises.

If you’re in coach:

Coach seats are wider and more comfortable than airplane seats, and they recline. However, it can still be tricky to get fully comfortable for sleeping.

Bring a travel pillow, blanket, and eye mask to make your seat feel cozier. Some people also like to bring a neck pillow or back cushion.

Consider using earplugs or white noise to drown out any sounds from other passengers.

Personal Tip: On my first overnight train trip, I brought a small blanket and pillow from home, and it made a huge difference in how well I slept. If you’re in coach, reclining your seat and propping your feet up on a small bag or travel footrest can help you feel more comfortable.

6. How to Stay Clean and Fresh on the Train

One of the most common questions from first-time train travelers is, “How do I stay clean on a multi-day trip?” While trains don’t have showers (unless you’re in a deluxe sleeper car), there are ways to stay fresh and comfortable during your journey.

Here’s how to stay clean and refreshed on a train:

Daily Freshening Up: Use baby wipes or face wipes to clean your hands and face. Hand sanitizer is also a must!

Toiletries: Bring travel-size toiletries like toothpaste, deodorant, and face wash. Brush your teeth and wash your face in the train’s restroom each morning and evening to feel refreshed.

Clothing: Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes that will keep you comfortable during the day. Bring a fresh set of clothes for each day, and don’t forget an extra pair of socks!

Pro Tip: Pack a small toiletry kit with all your essentials in one toiletry bag. This way, you can easily grab it when you need to freshen up, without digging through your suitcase.

7. Entertainment and Activities: How to Pass the Time

You might be wondering, “What will I do for three days on the train?” While part of the joy of train travel is simply relaxing and watching the world go by, it’s a good idea to have some activities to keep you entertained during longer stretches.

Here are some ideas for passing the time:

Read a book: Long train rides are perfect for getting lost in a good book. Bring a few books or load up your e-reader with multiple titles so you don’t run out of reading material.

Download podcasts or audiobooks: These are great for when you want to rest your eyes but still stay entertained. Be sure to download them ahead of time since Wi-Fi on trains can be spotty.

Play games: Whether you enjoy card games, puzzles, or mobile games, having something fun to pass the time is a must. If you’re traveling with someone, bring a deck of cards for a few rounds of Go Fish or Uno.

Journaling or drawing: Train rides offer a unique opportunity to reflect, write, or sketch as the scenery rolls by. Even if you’re not an artist or a regular journal keeper, the peaceful environment of a train can inspire creativity.

Meet other travelers: One of the unexpected joys of long-distance train travel is the social aspect. You’ll meet people from all over the world in the lounge or dining cars. Strike up a conversation and you might just make a new friend.

8. Safety and Comfort Tips for a Smooth Journey

While train travel is generally very safe, it’s always a good idea to take a few precautions, especially if it’s your first time on a long-distance trip.

Some key safety and comfort tips:

Keep valuables close: Always keep your important items—like your wallet, phone, and tickets—on you or within arm’s reach. A small crossbody bag or a fanny pack can help keep your valuables secure while you’re walking around the train.

Stay hydrated: It’s easy to forget to drink enough water, especially when you’re traveling. Bring a refillable water bottle and make sure to sip regularly to stay hydrated.

Move around often: One of the best things about train travel is the freedom to get up and walk around. Stretch your legs every few hours to stay comfortable and avoid stiffness.

Listen to announcements: The crew will make important announcements about upcoming stops, meal times, and other updates. Keep an ear out so you don’t miss anything important.

Pro Tip: While you don’t need to be overly worried about safety on a train, it’s always smart to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in common areas like the lounge or café cars.

9. What Happens at Stops Along the Way?

Long-distance train routes often include stops at major cities or scenic locations. These stops can be a great opportunity to stretch your legs, grab a snack, or explore a new place briefly.

Here’s what you need to know about train stops:

Duration of stops: Some stops are only a few minutes long, while others may last 15-30 minutes or more. The train crew will let you know how much time you have to step off the train.

What to do during stops: Use the time to stretch your legs, breathe in some fresh air, or take a quick walk around the station area. You can also grab a snack or drink at the station if there’s time.

Keep track of time: Make sure you return to the train before the stop ends! The train won’t wait for passengers who miss the departure time, so always be aware of the clock.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Journey

Your first three-day train trip is an adventure you’ll never forget. From the scenic views and comfortable atmosphere to the slower pace and unique experience of train travel, this journey is all about enjoying the ride as much as the destination.

Remember, the key to a successful trip is preparation. By choosing the right route, packing thoughtfully, and knowing what to expect along the way, you’ll be ready for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Whether you’re exploring mountains, coasts, or wide-open plains, you’re sure to make lasting memories on your first long-distance train ride. So sit back, relax, and let the rhythmic motion of the train carry you to new places and new experiences. Happy travels!