Travel by Train
Modern-day travel has evolved into fast cars with great gas mileage and multimillion dollar passenger airplanes. Even cruise liners offer smooth sailing with all the luxuries of home, and then some. But with skyrocketing gas and airline prices, it's easy to see why so many are reconsidering their family vacations, looking for travel alternatives and thinking about good old-fashioned train travel.
Instructions
Travel by Train
1. Map your trip. Check how far the nearest departing train station is to you and how close the nearest arriving train station is to where you are going. This helps you determine the amount of travel time you need to add to the beginning and end of your trip. Several rail operators are available; however, not all offer the same destinations or schedule flexibility.
2. Know what other travel arrangements need to be made. Depending on your destination, you may need to rent a vehicle, make airline reservations or arrange to have someone meet you at the stations.
3. Decide what kind of seating you need. Various train seating options are available depending on your length of travel and additional passengers. Instead of traditional coach cars, sleep cars offer privacy for little ones to play and stretch out and increase comfort for long journeys.
4. Check luggage limits. Unlike airplane travel, traveling by train allows for more luggage. Each passenger may carry on two bags weighing no more than 50 pounds each and check in three bags weighing no more than 50 pounds. Briefcases; baby items, such as strollers, diaper bags and car seats; laptop computers; purses; and medical equipment are considered personal items and do not fall into the carry-on category.
5. Purchase tickets in advance. The closer you are to the departure date, the more expensive the tickets. Purchasing them as far in advance as possible is more economical. However, many train operators have return policies and cancellation fees for refunded tickets. Online websites such as Travelocity can offer discounts and may even be able to create a ticket and hotel package.
6. Print out an itinerary. Once you have purchased your tickets, print out the scheduled itinerary for your trip. This includes the number of tickets purchased, the departure and arrival train numbers, platforms, station names, times, and duration for each leg of the trip. Having this information handy will help you stay organized and calm once you arrive at the station. It is important to remember that this information may change, so be sure to watch for any information displays in the station lobby.
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