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I took my first major train ride through the US and there are 8 things I wish I knew before trying this type of travel

Monica HumphriesAug 27, 2022, 17:32 IST

The author in her standard seat on the Rocky Mountaineer.Monica Humphries/Insider

I boarded the luxury Rocky Mountaineer in May, which marked one of my first train trips in the US.
The two-day trip was a blast, but there are a few things I wish I knew before boarding the train.

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Besides NYC's subway and Denver's airport train, I have never seriously explored the US by train — until now.

The author in Moab, Utah, where the Rocky Mountaineer's journey ended.Monica Humphries/Insider

The train had a quick check-in process, and I wish I hadn't gotten to the station so early.

The exterior of Denver's Union Station.Monica Humphries/Insider

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I packed distractions for my 15-hour trip that I didn't end up needing. I was immersed in scenery, food, and history the entire time.

The Rocky Mountaineer outside of Glenwood Springs, Colorado.Monica Humphries/Insider

With limited space in each train car, I should've exercised more before boarding the train.

The interior of the Rocky Mountaineer train.Monica Humphries/Insider

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The train was bumpier than I expected.

The author on the observation deck of the Rocky Mountaineer.Monica Humphries/Insider

While I didn't have to set my phone to airplane mode, I didn't have phone service or Wi-Fi for the majority of the ride, either.

An arrow points to no bars during my ride on the Rocky Mountaineer.Monica Humphries/Insider

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My focus during my train ride was on the breathtaking views, but I didn't consider what to pack to enhance the landscapes even more.

A view of the Colorado Rockies from the Rocky Mountaineer.Monica Humphries/Insider

I should've expected a handful of delays.

The Rocky Mountaineer waits for a freight train to pass by causing a delay.Monica Humphries/Insider

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Since I wasn't restricted to rigid airline baggage policies, I could've packed a larger carry-on with a blanket and travel pillow.

A blanket left behind by a passenger on the Rocky Mountaineer.Monica Humphries/Insider

I was bound to learn a few lessons about traveling by train. While this was my first train trip, it won't be my last.

The author on the Rocky Mountaineer.Monica Humphries/Insider

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I took a Greyhound bus from New York City to Montréal 4 times this year to avoid airports. It's cheaper and less stressful than flying.

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