We have now officially traveled by plane, train, and automobile! Experiencing a train ride was always a travel goal must for Kelsey so when tickets went on sale for a west coast train adventure we decided it was time.

We booked with Amtrak Coast Starlight Express. Our train adventure began in Seattle and ended in LA lasting about 40 hours total. It was a fun and unique experience allowing us to check one more item off our travel bucket list.

Going on a train adventure is something everyone should experience once in their life. If you find yourself ready to book a train trip there are some easy tips to help make your journey a little bit more enjoyable.

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Get a Sleeper Car

This is more expensive but the difference between a sleeper car and a typical seat is SIGNIFICANT. There can be a lot of stops and delays when you are on a train. That makes the time you spend in a sleeper car that much better.

You also get little perks like meals in the dining car or your room and early boarding. It takes the train experience to a higher level.

Pack Light

We always pack light since we're minimalists but for a train trip, this becomes a big help. There is storage by the stairs in your train car for large luggage but you have to walk to it every time you need anything.

We both brought just a book bag that fit under our seats perfectly. Having the full room while also having all our belongings with us made things easier.

Prepare for Delays

If you don't like plane delays then the train might not be for you. We were delayed for around three hours in total. There were times when we had to pick up more trains or switch the caboose.

Once, the power even went out and we were under a tunnel making any cell service or internet impossible. You're already on the train a long time which makes any delay frustrating but it's easier to deal with when it's expected.

Knowing the schedule ahead of time can help with the delays. You can pull up the schedule on your phone or print it out in advance so you know how far ahead or behind you are.

It can also help you find the areas along the route where you might not have the internet so you can plan accordingly.

Pack Snacks and Drinks

Even if you are getting meals it's still a good idea to bring snacks. We packed some trail mix and of course candy.

Our train offered three meals a day which often was enough food for us but having some light snacks made for a much better experience. Having our snacks saved us from a trip to the snack car which was always packed and overpriced.

Packing snacks is extra important if you are concerned about healthy snacking because there weren't many healthy options to choose from in the snack car.

Bring a Small Blanket and Layers

The temperature on a train is tricky as you are moving through different cities with different temperatures so quickly. Plus, when the sun goes away it can make a big difference.

Pack a little blanket so you always have an option when you get cold. It's also nice to make the night time cozier.

Make sure you layer up as well. There were times when we were getting a little warm and times where we needed to wear an extra layer going through the mountains.

We took our train trip during the winter months which meant we had to prepare more for cold weather than warm weather.

Pack Face Wipes

There are bathrooms with sinks but there is not a lot of room. The sinks are made more for just hand washing which makes washing your face difficult. Bring face wipes so you'll be able to freshen up.

It's also nice that they double up for hand wipes as well. The more time you can spend in your room rather than a train bathroom the better!

Bring a Book

Since the internet is spotty at best having a book is almost a must. At some point, you will need to pass the time and a book is perfect. It's also lightweight making it easier for travel.

Phil brought his Kindle which kept him entertained the whole time and he was able to load a bunch of different books on there. Just remember your space is limited so try to bring an e-reader or a paperback book.

Work Out Before

You will get little to no exercise on a train. We got a very limited amount of steps in on the days we were on the train.

There is no space in the aisles making walking around difficult and you only move when necessary. Since it will be a very long time without physical activity it's important to work out before and/or after your trip.

Bring Medication

The two most important for us are Advil and Dramamine. There's a good chance you'll get a headache or wake up from sleeping wrong and you'll want some pain relief. Plus, you never know if you'll get motion sick.

There are some medications to buy on the train but again they are overpriced. Be prepared by bringing these medications and any other ones you might use.

Be Open to Changing Your Stop

Due to all of the delays, we got off a few stops early and took a long cab ride to our final destination. The delays got so bad that this option was faster by about an hour and a half.

We have even heard of some people who have been delayed up to 15 hours on a train trip!

Changing your stop may save you time in the long run. Especially if you are taking the train for a destination instead of the experience.

Click here for our travel video diary!

We loved our first train adventure but the next one will be even better. Now that we know what to expect we have ways to make our trip even better.

Learn from our first time and improve your next train ride. Everyone should experience at least one train ride in their lifetime.