I’ve always loved traveling, but let’s be honest—it can be a hassle, especially when it comes to flying.
There’s something about the whole airport ordeal that just tires me out. Between security checks and the uncomfortable seats, I often wonder if there’s a better way.
Thinking about alternatives, I found that train travel really stands out. Trains offer a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience, and they often come with views that you just can’t get from a plane. The whole process feels less like a chore and more like a part of the adventure.
1) Scenic Views
When you’re on a train, the world feels like it’s gliding by your window. It’s like having a front-row seat to the most amazing movie ever.
I can see mountains, rivers, and small towns, all from my comfy train seat. Planes just can’t compete with that.
It’s like a moving postcard, giving you a taste of every landscape without having to leave your seat.
2) More Legroom
Ever tried to stretch out on an airplane? It’s like trying to unfold a map in a phone booth. Trains, on the other hand, feel like a breath of fresh air in comparison.
Coach seats on Amtrak trains have about 39 inches of legroom. That’s basically like sitting in your own little kingdom.
Airlines typically offer between 28 and 32 inches, which can make you feel like a sardine.
On a train, you can actually let go of that tight squeeze and relax.
3) No TSA Hassles
I don’t miss the long security lines at the airport one bit.
When I hop on a train, there’s no need to take off my shoes, belt, or empty my pockets.
No need to worry about tiny bottles of liquids either. I can bring my soda, water, or even homemade snacks without any hassle.
Plus, I never have to deal with those full-body scanners. It’s just so much less stressful.
4) Comfortable Sleep Options
I love how comfy sleeper trains are. It’s like having your own cozy nest on wheels.
You can stretch out, lay back, and really unwind. Trust me, it beats the cramped airplane seats.
There are also private cabins. Think of it as your personal mini-hotel room.
Snuggling up in a full-sized bed with clean sheets? Yes, please!
Some trains even offer en-suite bathrooms. No more squeezing into tiny airplane lavatories.
It’s pretty much heaven for anyone who values comfort while traveling.
5) Easier to Work Onboard
When I’m on a train, setting up my laptop is a breeze.
There’s plenty of space on the table in front of me, unlike the tiny tray tables on planes.
I can spread out my notes, plug in my charger, and get to work without feeling cramped.
I don’t have to worry about turning my devices on and off for takeoff and landing.
On a train, it’s smooth sailing the whole way, so I’m not forced to interrupt my workflow.
Need to stretch your legs? No problem, I can walk down the aisle and still be productive. Plus, the steady internet connection means I’m never out of touch.
6) Onboard Dining Experience
Train food rocks! I mean, have you ever had a decent meal on a plane? Didn’t think so. Trains often have freshly prepared meals with a variety of options.
On my last train trip, I got an actual steak dinner. Not kidding. It was way better than those sad airplane sandwiches.
Plus, you can walk over to the dining car and chat with fellow travelers.
Trains bring a touch of class to travel with real cutlery and plates. It’s like dining out but with a constantly changing view. Good food, good vibes, and good company—what’s not to love?
7) Environmentally Friendly
When I travel, I like to feel like I’m doing my bit for the planet.
Planes are major polluters, spewing out CO2 like there’s no tomorrow.
A train trip, on the other hand, is like a walk in the park for Mother Earth.
Traveling from London to Madrid by train emits only 25.41kg of CO2 per passenger, compared to a whopping 119.57kg by plane.
Trains use way less energy than planes. Getting a plane airborne takes a ton of fuel. Trains, though, just glide along the tracks, often even running on electricity.
Besides, trains don’t mess with the ozone layer the way planes do. Flying at high altitudes isn’t exactly friendly to the atmosphere. Think about that the next time you buckle up for takeoff.
Every trip via train means fewer emissions and a happier planet. It’s not just about getting from A to B, it’s about the green way of doing it. Why not make Jamie Oliver proud and go eco-friendly with your travel?
8) Less Stressful Boarding
Airport security lines can be the worst. You wait forever, take off your shoes, and still get patted down.
On trains, boarding is a breeze. I just walk to the platform, hop on, and find my seat. No fuss, no muss.
No need for body scans or worrying about liquid limits. It’s just so much simpler.
9) Flexible Luggage Allowance
One of my favorite things about train travel? The luggage!
Unlike planes, trains aren’t stingy with baggage limits. You can bring more stuff without paying a fortune. Let’s be honest, we all overpack sometimes.
Forget about cramming everything into a tiny suitcase. Trains are chill with big bags. No stressing at the check-in counter. Just hop on with your gear, no fuss.
Traveling with kids or pets? Rail travel makes it way easier. More space, more flexibility. Yup, trains have us covered.
10) Quieter Environment
When I hop on a train, one of the first things I notice is the peace and quiet.
There’s no annoying engine roar or turbulence shakes. I can actually take a nap or read my book without constant interruptions. How great is that?
Talking to someone on the train feels natural, unlike in planes where we’re practically shouting to be heard.
Enjoying my trip without the noise is such a win.
Scenic Routes and Views
Train travel offers some of the most breathtaking sights right from your seat.
Imagine rolling through landscapes at a slow pace and catching views you’d never see from a plane.
Window Views
From the moment you settle into your seat, you have a front-row ticket to nature’s best show.
Picture this: as the train winds through the countryside, you’ll see everything from lush forests to majestic mountains.
There’s no need to worry about which side to sit on, as most train routes offer panoramic windows for all passengers.
Riding the Amtrak Zephyr from Chicago to San Francisco, for instance, reveals stunning scenes along the way, including the rugged beauty of Utah’s desert and the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
On the Sunset Limited route, you get to enjoy the varied landscapes between New Orleans and Los Angeles, from bayous to deserts.
When traveling by train, you’re not just getting from point A to point B; you’re experiencing the journey itself.
Plus, with no clouds obstructing your view, every minute spent looking out the window is worth it.
Passing Through Small Towns
One of the coolest perks of train travel is passing right through charming small towns that you’d never know existed.
Unlike planes, which fly high above, trains cruise through towns and cities, often right down their main streets.
Each small town tells its own story, from quaint houses and local diners to folks going about their daily lives. You get a slice of Americana that’s genuinely unique.
Sometimes you even get to stop for a while, giving you a chance to explore and grab a bite from a local café.
On the Amtrak Sunset Limited, for example, you’ll pass historic towns that have a rich cultural heritage.
These glimpses into small-town life add an extra layer of enjoyment to your journey, making each trip not just scenic, but also culturally enriching.
So, next time you’re deciding on a travel route, remember that a train offers more than just a way to get from one place to another—it offers an entire adventure filled with unforgettable views and experiences.
