My family's been to 44 states by car. It was nice, but now we pick train travel because it's superior in many ways.

Amanda AdlerAug 30, 2024, 21:17 IST

After trying out train travel in California, my family has started to take Amtraks more frequently.Amanda Adler

After taking road trips throughout the US, I tried traveling by Amtrak train instead.
My experiences on the rails have been comfortable and hassle-free, albeit not the most efficient.

Ahead of my family vacation to California, I dreamed of cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway. There was just one problem: My son suffered from terrible car sickness.

To avoid scrubbing vomit out of a rental car's upholstery, I booked tickets on the Amtrak Coast Starlight from Oakland to Santa Barbara.

The smooth, nine-hour journey offered all of the magnificent ocean views I would've wanted to see on the road trip, with none of the upset stomachs.

Since that trip, my son has found ways to manage his car sickness, and we've successfully traveled to 44 states by car. But there's a host of reasons my family is still choosing to return to rail travel.

Many Amtrak trains offer scenic views of some of the country's most beautiful locales.

Many Amtrak trains have observation cars and lounges on board.Shutterstock

Some trains also stop in underrated destinations I wouldn't have otherwise visited.

In my experience, the trip goes by more quickly on trains than it does during road trips.Amanda Adler

Depending on the itinerary and season, traveling by train can be more affordable than driving.

Filling up a rental car can cost more than some train tickets.Amanda Adler

I feel safer traveling by train than by car, especially in poor weather conditions.

I prefer to travel by Amtrak over driving in big cities or winter weather.Laser1987/Getty Images

Amtrak's seats feel wider and more comfortable than the ones in most cars.

An inside view of the seats on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner.Shutterstock

Rail journeys give me time and space to work, spend time with family, and rest.

My son used to feel sick in cars, so we tried out train travel instead.Amanda Adler

Trains aren't the right option for every trip, but I look forward to incorporating more of them in my future travels.

The boarding process for Amtrak trains is quick and typically seamless.Getty Images

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