I've spent 100 hours traveling over 3,000 miles by train in 5 countries. Here are my 7 tips for making time fly on long rail journeys.

Joey HaddenMar 3, 2023, 17:12 IST

Insider's reporter has spent 100 hours on trains from Amtrak routes through the US East Coast to sleeper trains in Germany, Austria, and Italy.Joey Hadden/Insider

I've spent 100 hours on long-haul trains around the world, from the US to Europe and Canada.
I think trains that are six hours or longer can be particularly exhausting, difficult rides.

You can consider me a seasoned long-haul train traveler.

The author takes trains in Switzerland (L) and Venice (R) in October 2022.Joey Hadden/Insider

Long-haul train rides are the most unique form of travel I've experienced, where it's more about the journey rather than simply getting from point A to point B.

Snapshots of the author on four different Amtrak trains in 2021 and 2022.Joey Hadden/Insider

While I enjoy long-haul trains, I also know they can be quite taxing. Thankfully, I've learned some tips along the way that make these journeys more enjoyable.

The author wakes up on an overnight Amtrak train from Miami to NYC.Joey Hadden/Insider

When booking a long-haul overnight ride, I recommend splurging for a private space whenever possible.

Inside an Amtrak bedroom en route to NYC from Miami in October 2021.Joey Hadden/Insider

If booking a private space isn't an option, I think a shared sleeper cabin is still better than a regular seat.

A seating carriage (L) and a shared cabin (R) and Nightjet trains in Europe.Joey Hadden/Insider

I learned that if you take an overnight train, it's a must to have an alternate day plan ready in case you don't sleep.

The author watches the sunrise from her bed during an overnight train ride from NYC to Miami in October 2021.Joey Hadden/Insider

From overnight rides to all-day trips, long train journeys often make me feel cramped. I find that taking time to stretch makes a huge difference.

The author walks around a sleeper train in Berlin in October 2022 (L) and stretches her legs during a long stop on a 30-hour train ride from Miami to NYC in October 2021 (R).Joey Hadden/Insider

Wearing comfy clothes makes me feel more at home on a long train journey.

The author wears sweats (L) and pajamas (R) on overnight Amtrak rides between Miami and NYC in October 2021.Joey Hadden/Insider

To pass the time, I always bring my own entertainment and don't rely on Wi-Fi or cell service to use it.

The author plays cards with her partner on a train in Italy (L) and uses her iPad on a train in Vienna (R).Joey Hadden/Insider

Looking out the window is a form of entertainment for me, too. It reminds me that this long-haul ride is more about the journey rather than just the destination.

Views of Switzerland from a train window in October 2022.Joey Hadden/Insider

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