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I spent 60 hours on overnight Amtrak trains for the first time. Here are 9 things I wish I had known before I took the long-haul journeys.
I spent 60 hours on overnight Amtrak trains for the first time. Here are 9 things I wish I had known before I took the long-haul journeys.
Joey HaddenDec 15, 2021, 19:02 IST
Insider's reporter spent 60 hours in Amtrak sleeper cars, and she learned some things about overnight train travel she regrets not knowing before.Joey Hadden/Insider
I regret not knowing a few things ahead of my first long-haul, overnight Amtrak train rides.
The trips from New York to Miami and back were 30 hours each, but the time felt like it passed more slowly.
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Both train rides felt bumpy the whole time.
A view out the window as the train is moving.Joey Hadden/Insider
Regardless of where I slept, I felt the bumps throughout the night. But the top bunk felt the bumpiest to me.
The author lays in the top bunk during her first overnight train ride.Joey Hadden/Insider
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While the bed, sheets, and blankets were comfier than I expected, I didn't think much of the provided pillows.
The author wakes up in the morning during her second overnight train ride.Joey Hadden/Insider
Although the roomette sleeps two, it can feel cramped even for one person.
The author sits in the roomette.Joey Hadden/Insider
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Throughout my trip, my WiFi service was spotty, which made getting work done a little tricky.
The author works during her ride.Joey Hadden/Insider
My cellular data service was also in and out throughout the journey.
The author uses her Nintendo and her phone on the train.Joey Hadden/Insider
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Time seemed to pass more slowly on my 30-hour train journeys.
The author passes the time on her first overnight train ride.Joey Hadden/Insider
The cup holders in Amtrak roomettes and bedrooms fit a standard 12-ounce water bottle.
The author's water bottle didn't fit in the cup holder.Joey Hadden/Insider
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I think you have to view the ride itself as part of your vacation to really enjoy it.
The author sits in a roomette on an overnight Amtrak.Joey Hadden/Insider