I recently embarked on a 16-hour Amtrak journey from Portland to Sacramento, discovering invaluable insights into what to pack—and what I wish I had brought. This guide aims to help you optimize your packing list for a smoother, more comfortable train ride.

Maximize Comfort and Convenience with These Proven Travel Essentials

Packing Light Yet Thoroughly

Selecting the right luggage is crucial for a long-distance Amtrak trip. Opting for a compact rolling carry-on and a smaller daypack ensures that you have enough space for essentials without overwhelming the limited roomette storage. My strategy was to keep personal items like snacks, entertainment, toiletries, and sleepwear in the smaller bag, while larger necessities for my destination went into the rolling case. Surprisingly, both bags fit comfortably in the roomette, making it easy to access everything I needed.

The Importance of Snacks and Hydration

While Amtrak offers complimentary meals in the dining car, bringing your own snacks can be a lifesaver. I packed an assortment of crackers, nuts, pretzels, and chocolate, which came in handy when I wasn’t thrilled with the dinner options. Having a variety of snacks not only saved me money but also provided a welcome change from the train’s menu. Additionally, staying hydrated is key. Although the roomette included two small water bottles, I found it more convenient to bring my reusable thermos and utilize the bottle-filling stations available in the same car.

Sanitization for Peace of Mind

In today’s world, cleanliness is paramount. Upon boarding, I felt reassured by the overall cleanliness of the roomette but opted to bring disinfecting wipes for added comfort. Wiping down high-touch areas such as armrests, door handles, and control buttons significantly enhanced my sense of safety. This simple act made the confined space feel more like home, ensuring a hygienic environment during my journey.

Personal Comfort and Entertainment

Traveling for extended periods can be challenging, especially when it comes to maintaining a routine. Bringing a familiar blanket from home was a comforting choice, allowing me to adjust the temperature and enjoy a cozy night’s rest. Moreover, entertainment played a vital role in passing the time. Since WiFi and cell service were unreliable, I downloaded several episodes of my favorite shows and packed a book. Engaging with fellow passengers also made the hours fly by, creating memorable experiences along the way.

Coping with Travel Anxiety and Motion Sickness

First-time travelers often face unexpected challenges. For me, travel anxiety was a concern, so I prepared by bringing CBD products, essential oils, and an aromatherapy mist. These items helped create a calming atmosphere, easing any pre-trip jitters. However, I overlooked the possibility of motion sickness. Despite feeling fine during the ride, I experienced lingering effects upon arrival. Next time, I’ll pack travel wristbands or medication to mitigate this issue.

Practical Additions for Future Trips

Reflecting on my experience, there are a few items I would add to my packing list. Lightweight pajamas would have been ideal, as the roomette’s temperature controls were less effective than expected. Additionally, a small padlock for securing the roomette door would provide peace of mind when leaving items unattended. Lastly, learning that Amtrak allows passengers in sleeper cars to bring their own alcohol opened up possibilities for future trips. A bottle of wine or hard cider could enhance the evening ambiance, making the journey even more enjoyable.