Of the many travel options presented to us today, none is as unique as travel by train. Cheaper than airfare and more enjoyable than bus travel, train travel provides an opportunity for scenic enjoyment, while being relatively easy on the pocketbook.

Train travel is not the most popular mode of travel these days. The reason for that could be the length of time a train trip takes compared to traveling by air. Another reason might be the monotony of  sights to see while traveling on the train, which may prove boring for some travelers. Another reason could be the price of a train ticket which could be more than it would cost to take the bus. All of these reasons could contribute to the lack of popularity for train travel, this does not mean however that you should not take the train. With a little creativity and preparation you could have a fantastic trip on the train.

Looking out the window at the same type of scenery for long periods of time could be boring. Train travel hasn’t been popular for many years, but it could be very enjoyable with a little planning.

So with this in mind, sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. If you are traveling during the daytime, you may be able to see sights you would not normally get to see if you are driving, or taking the bus or plane. You can even bring binoculars to see the views more clearly. If you enjoy reading, this is the time to bring that novel for your book club you have not yet finished. Or maybe you can finish that report for work so you can really enjoy your trip once you arrive at your destination.

If you are not into reading or enjoying the scenery, bring along a CD player or your iPod. Make sure to load your iPod library with all of your favorite songs, or bring along plenty of CD’s. Make sure to bring extra batteries or your charger.  Be friendly and polite to your fellow travelers, you never know when you could make a new friend, or at least spend some time in pleasant conversation while on board the train.

If you are not into sightseeing or reading, you could bring your laptop to play games, watch movies, or to work on that presentation. With the exception of cars specifically designed to be quiet, you bring a CD player, I-pod or hand held video game player. Play cards with someone you meet on the train, you just may make a new friend or two along the way. Depending on the length of the trip, some type of food is available, or you can bring your own.

If you are traveling with children, please make sure you have enough activities to keep them occupied, like coloring books and crayons, books, cards activity books, board games, snacks or video games with headphones. You can even make parts of the trip educational by teaching them about the cities and geography of the areas you ride through.  Many of the games you play on long car trips will work as well.