harisrid Tech News

This advice extends very well to train systems in other parts of the world too! But I’m going to down-scope the focus on just America!

Ok Let’s Hit the Ground Running with … a couple of useful things to know.

1. Do bring a solid camera ( DSLR ) ( or other photo-taking instruments )
   • Open up your passenger-side window blinds or hit up the 360-degree Observation deck. You’ll take in amazing landscape photography.
2. Bring a blanket – or other light supplies – for sleeping overnight on coach ( unless you plan to use the roomette or first-class room service ).
3. Amtrak meals are worth their cost – yes you can bring your own food and beverages, BUT, their dining car service offers amazing food at a large volume and bargain prices, making for memorable experiences.
   • Dinner meals of around $40.00 USD per person may seem expensive, but their lunch and breakfast options are surprisingly cost-affordable and hover closer to $20.00 per person¹.
4. Have conversations with the strangers! Bring a deck of cards of board games.
   • It’s easy to break the ice and introduce yourself to travelers – especially in the all-carriage accessible observation deck. More ever, you will learn tremendously about the world by talking to others aboard.
5. Bring mobile packs and chargers.
   • Most long-distance Amtrak passenger seats have outlets, but they may be taken up – bring portable backup battery packs.
6. Bring a book! Or two! Or three!
   • Amtrak trips are lengthy, distraction-free environments with the accompaniments of beautiful landscapes and rhythmic locomotive noise. I don’t imagine you’ll gaze out of the window 24/7, so kick back and devour the book you’ve been meaning to. My best readings – like Cal Newport’s Deep Work – took place on Amtrak rides.
7. When booking seats, book for the second level – not the first.
   • Second level seating beats first level seating for the best landscape photography and views. If I recall correctly, there’s no price difference between the lower levels versus the upper levels of carriages.

So what’s my takeaway here?

Most importantly, focus on relaxing and enjoy the journey.
There’s no perfect way for anyone to travel – it all boils down ( and grossly simplifies ) to the style that suits you apropos and best.
Also I invite you all to share your own tips or experiences in the comments! I wanna hear what y’all have to share!

1. At the time of this writing, 02/21/2025, and to best personal memory, these are the prices I’ve posted. ↩︎