Amtrak packing list: 10 essential items

Packing wisely can make a train ride more comfortable and enjoyable, whether you’re traveling for two hours or two days. Explore the list of essential things to pack for an Amtrak train trip below, including must-have items for coach travel and overnight long-distance journeys.

Food

Even if your train ticket includes meals, it’s still a good idea to bring your own food, especially if you prefer healthier options or want to snack between meals. Many travelers bring a small cooler or insulated lunch bag for items that need to stay cold. You can also pick up fresh food at or near your departure station to enjoy once you’re on board.

Food ideas:

Salty snacks: Nuts, chips, crackers, pretzels
Cereal: Especially the kind that’s easy to eat without milk like Chex and Cheerios
Protein: Cheese sticks, beef or turkey snack sticks, peanut butter, hummus, edamame
Fruit: Apples, bananas, oranges or tangerines, grape tomatoes, smoothie pouches, dried fruit
Veggies: Carrots, celery, cucumber, bell pepper, salad
Sweets: Chocolate, candy, cookies
Other: Sandwiches, breakfast or protein bars

Water

Bring your own water to stay hydrated and avoid paying for beverages on the train. Plastic bottles or a full reusable bottle are both good options, but keep in mind that you can’t refill bottles while on board. Amtrak sleeper car passengers typically receive complimentary bottled water, though supplies can run low toward the end of long-distance routes.

Warm Layer or Blanket

Trains can be cold, so it’s good to be prepared, especially if you’re traveling overnight in coach. A sweatshirt, fleece jacket, sweater, and/or a small travel blanket can make a big difference on long trips. Hooded sweatshirts are especially useful because the hood adds warmth, privacy, and a bit of extra cushioning when trying to sleep in a seat.

Medicine

Don’t forget to pack prescription medication and any over-the-counter medicine or supplements you take regularly. Helpful items include:

Motion sickness remedies. Trains naturally sway on the tracks, which can cause nausea for some passengers. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication or using other motion-sickness aids before departure to help make your journey more comfortable.
Pain relief medicine
Gas-X
Vitamins
Allergy pills or nasal spray

Cleaning Wipes

Disinfecting wipes can keep your seating area clean and tidy, and they’re also useful for shared bathrooms. Shared coach restrooms are used by many people on long-distance routes, so wipes are especially useful in this case. Amtrak bedrooms and some roomettes have in-room toilets if you don’t want to share!

Non-Tech Entertainment

While much of your train journey may be spent enjoying the views, it’s helpful to have other ways to pass the time — especially if you’re traveling with children. Consider bringing books, journals, magazines, crafts, coloring books, playing cards, toys, or compact travel board games. Many long-distance Amtrak routes have limited or no Wi-Fi, and some sections experience poor cell phone reception, making tech-free items a reliable way to stay entertained throughout your trip.

Tech Accessories

Headphones are essential for enjoying music, podcasts, or movies on your train trip, especially if you plan to use your devices in a coach seat, cafe car, or sightseer lounge. It’s best to download any audio, shows or movies before your trip; not all trains have WiFi and video streaming using Amtrak’s WiFi is not allowed. Also, don’t forget to pack your phone charger and power cords for any other devices.

Power strip

Power strips or extension cords with multiple outlets can be very useful on a train trip. While Amtrak trains provide power outlets at most seats, they may not be sufficient for all your devices or be in a convenient location. Avoid bulky, box-style extenders that plug directly into the wall. You’ll need something with a cord that plugs into one outlet.

Cash

Don’t forget to bring cash so you can tip employees. Red cap attendants can help with train platform transportation, getting your luggage on the train and finding seats if you’re in a large group. Minimum $10 tip is suggested. Also, for those traveling in a sleeper car, don’t forget to tip your server in the dining car (if applicable) and your car attendant, especially for a quality experience. The typical range is $5 to $10 per night, and some people tip higher than that for excellent service.

Small Carry-On Bag

Keep essential items in a small, easily accessible bag that you can store at your seat. This should include everything you’ll need during the journey, including everything mentioned above. Larger luggage typically goes in overhead racks or storage areas, making it difficult to reach while en route. For overnight trips, be sure to also pack personal care essentials like a toothbrush, deodorant, and travel-sized soap to stay fresh throughout your journey.