Hints for taking the train

Pack just what you need and no more. Use a smaller rolling suitcase you could stow overhead if there's no room in the baggage compartment and take along one backpack you can take to your seat. Don't take a purse, put all your essentials in your backpack/shoulder bag. Put luggage tags on your suitcase and your shoulder bag. Plan for delays-Amtrak's on time record is dismal.

Bring a book to read or puzzle books. If you have room to bring a small blanket, do so-we were chilly on the train going out. Bring a neck pillow. Take along a bottle of water and some simple snacks. Bring hand sanitizer and use frequently!

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes you can be in for a day or more. Settle in and relax. Understand you aren't getting anywhere fast. If something is dreadfully wrong (i.e., a nauseating odor you can't stand) notify your car attendant, if you can find him or her, and they should try to make it right.

Many people (including us) used cell phones on the trip, but it gets noisy with everybody doing that. Enjoy the observation and lounge cars, but know that people who have sleeper berths have to hang out in these cars because they can't sit in the coach seats and it may be crowded.

If motion bothers you, take something for it before you get on the train. If you can stand going without a meal, do so because the food is expensive and not of very good quality. However, the dining car experience is something I guess everybody should try at least once.

The bathrooms on the train are functional, however, it is not a pleasant experience to use them. At one point I used the restroom for handicapped folks and it was better-more room and there wasn't a million and three people who had already gone before.

I do think that Amtrak's PR people have not done a good job of informing first time riders what it's like. They do say "No Baggage Service" but until you are standing there with a 50 pound suitcase to hoist up a narrow steep, winding train staircase, you don't really know what that means. It is a no frills, you take care of your own stuff kind of trip. It's pleasant enough, but don't expect a lot of customer service.

And, we did not submit any suitcases or bags through x-ray machines. You probably could carry a Howitzer on board without notice. So if lack of security aboard public transportation bothers you, don't take the train.

All in all, I think I would do it again now that I know what to expect. It's not a bad way to get somewhere, meet some people along the way, and see some sights.