Amtrak Train Travel: 10 Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag

If you have never traveled via Amtrak, you are missing out on a great experience. However, there are some important things to remember to pack in your carry-on luggage while traveling on the train.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack Blankets and Pillows in Your Carry-on Bag

If you are going to be traveling overnight on the train, you will need blankets. Just a small, light throw will suffice as the temperatures on Amtrak are actually pretty comfortable. But if you are like me, you like to cover up while sleeping, for warmth and for added security.

Amtrak does offer 'pillow service', but there aren't many pillows in the overhead luggage bin. Play it safe and bring along your own small pillow when traveling on the Amtrak train.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack Snacks in Your Carry-on Bag

The food in the dining car on the train is expensive, or so I've been told. I don't know, because I've always packed my own snacks. Throw some granola bars or dried fruit in your carry-on bag and munch away whenever the mood strikes you.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack Beverages in Your Carry-on Bag

Take it from me. Do not drink the water on the train. It tastes horrible! Instead, pack a bottle of water or soda in your carry-on bag while traveling on Amtrak.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack Tylenol in Your Carry-on Bag

Amtrak trains are loud and quarters tend to be a bit cramped. Pack Tylenol or Motrin to ease those headaches and muscle aches.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack Your Cell Phone in Your Carry-on Bag

Not only will chatting on your cell phone help pass the time on the train, it can also serve as an alarm clock. Set your alarm clock for 15 minutes before you are scheduled to arrive at your destination. This way, if you fall asleep, you'll be awake in time to hear the announcement over the intercom that your Amtrak train trip is at its end.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack Wet Wipes in Your Carry-on Bag

With the jostle of the train, spills can and will happen. Another use for the wet wipes is to wash your face or touch up your smeared eyeliner from sleeping.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack an Electronic Game in Your Carry-on Bag

Especially after the sun goes down, Amtrak train travel can get pretty boring. Bring along a handheld electronic game to help pass the time and save on your cell phone minutes.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack Gum in Your Carry-on Bag

If you are a smoker, be aware that there is no smoking on most Amtrak trains. Bring along a pack of gum to keep your mouth busy in between smoke breaks.

If you aren't a smoker, gum is still an essential as it can help keep your mouth hydrated without drinking all your water. Believe me, you do not want to drink the water on the train.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack a Book in Your Carry-on Bag

Use the time on the Amtrak train to catch up on your reading. Bring along a novel or a couple magazines to pass the time.

Amtrak Train Travel: Pack a Notebook in Your Carry-on Bag

If I hadn't packed a notebook and pen in my carry-on bag while traveling Amtrak, I never would have come up with this article.