I spent 60 hours on Amtrak trains with a backpack and carry-on bag. I'm glad I packed 7 items, but I wish I'd had 7 more.
A traveler recounts her experience spending 60 hours on Amtrak trains, detailing the pros and cons of her packing choices for long-distance rail travel. She offers advice on essential items for comfort and organization in sleeper accommodations.
Why it matters
Offers practical tips for long-distance travelers and insights into the current state of US passenger rail services.
The author traveled 60 hours on Amtrak trains. Here's what she did and didn't pack. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I traveled from New York to Miami and back on overnight Amtrak trains. Each ride was 30 hours. For 60 hours of train travel, I brought a carry-on duffel bag and my camera backpack. I was glad I brought some comfortable shoes, but I regret forgetting flip-flops for the shower. I've spent 200 hours on overnight trains , so I've learned exactly what to pack for a comfortable ride. But that wasn't the case back in 2021, when sleeper trains were completely new to me. For a weeklong trip to Florida, I traveled round-trip from New York to Miami on Amtrak trains. Each ride was about 30 hours long, and my tickets included a private room and complimentary meals.
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