A Safer Way to Travel
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When deciding what to pack, remember that you also have to consider where you
are traveling through in addition to where you are traveling to. Going from warm
sunny Florida to Seattle via Denver in February means more than just a t-shirt
and shorts to wear on board. Also consider the length of your on board time. A
day trip necessitates a lot less packing than a 3 day trip on the Sunset Limited
from Orlando to Los Angeles.
Most trains offer checked baggage service, but not all stations accept
baggage at all times. Nor are all stations open at all departure times. Check
with AMTRAK to determine if baggage service
will be available for your particular train. Plan on checking all items that you
will NOT need during your journey. Remember if you are traveling by AUTOTRAIN,
your luggage will be stored in your car and you will not have access to your car
during the journey. Any item that you may need in your carry-on including ALL
MEDICATIONS.
In your carry-on:
 | A change of clothes - consider where you are going through in addition to
where you are going to. A light sweater is always a good idea.
| Sleepwear - Recommended sleepwear for most people would be a t-shirt or
shorts. In case you decide to wander around in the middle of the night. If
you are riding in coach, you can change your clothes in the restroom but you
will not have private sleeping accommodations. First class passengers have
private accommodations. If you are traveling during the winter, a
lightweight pair of pants would replace the shorts.
| Something to keep yourself entertained - A good book (or two), CD or tape
player with headphones (required by AMTRAK), deck of cards (available for
purchase on board too), travel games for the kids, or a map detailing the
areas you are traveling through.
| Snacks - if you are particular about your snack food or if you don't want
to pay train prices. (The Lounge or Cafe cars have a selection of snacks.
Prices are reasonable but not as low as you would find before boarding)
Meals are included in the price of sleeping accommodations but coach
passengers must purchase their food onboard. Again prices are comparable to
what you would find in a good restaurant.
| Diapers, bottles, and baby food/formulas - If you are traveling with
children, be sure you bring EVERYTHING you will need during your journey.
ALWAYS pack extras in case you are delayed. Nursing mothers can find privacy
in the restrooms on board. |
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Remember that you are limited to 2 carry-on bags per person. Size and weight
restrictions apply. Plan accordingly. For more packing ideas, check out Puds
Mom's Packing List
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