Packing sucks.
It doesn’t matter what trip you’re planning, packing is one of the most stressful things to do. What shoes do you pack? Should you dress for style or comfort? How many pairs of underwear is truly too many?
And what in the world are you supposed to bring with you on a train?
These aren’t rhetorical questions:
- Classic, reliable white trainers (like your dad wears)
- Dress for comfort (but a bit of style never hurt anyone)
- 17
And these are the best items to pack for train travel in 2023.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Vera Petrunina
How to pack for a train trip
What is the most essential to pack for a train trip?
Your packing list will vary depending on the length of your trip, but three of the most essential things to pack for a train trip are a reusable water bottle, a pair of headphones, and comfortable clothing that you can wear for hours.
What food to pack for a train journey?
Most trains in Europe either have small snacks and beverages for purchase or have dining cars with full meals (some French trains even have menus designed by Michelin-starred chefs). Unless you have dietary restrictions, the best foods to pack for a train journey are easy to eat foods that won’t make a mess in your bag, don’t require much cutlery, and don’t take up valuable space in your bag. Remember, many train stations also have convenience stores and restaurants.
How much luggage can you bring on a train?
Luggage allowances vary by train and your ticket class, but most usually allow you to bring at least one piece of hand luggage and two larger pieces of luggage. You can also usually bring larger items like skis, a bicycle, alcohol, and even a pet.
What to pack for a train trip with kids?
Traveling Europe by train with your kids can be a worrisome thought, but there are a few things you can pack for kids to give you peace of mind. Download their favorite shows and games to your phone or iPad so they don’t have to rely on Wi-Fi. Bring a book and toys that stimulate their minds, such as puzzles or coloring books. Make sure you have a blanket and pillow to keep them comfortable, as well as their favorite snack.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alvaro Medina Jurado
Essentials for traveling by train in 2023
What to pack for train trips in Europe?
It’s 2023, so there are a few items that should be packed no matter how far you're traveling by train in Europe, including:
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Pen and notepad
- Luggage locks
- Ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones
- A few bills or coins of the destination currency
- Refillable water bottle
- A book you’ve been meaning to read
What to pack for long train trips in Europe?
Everything above, plus:
- Reading light
- Playing cards
- Photocopies of your travel documents
- A small bag for storing valuables
- Jacket or blanket
- Toiletries to freshen up
- Headphone splitter
- Chargers or a battery bank for your phone or laptop
- Snacks
- Neck pillow
What to pack for overnight trains in Europe?
Everything above, plus a few necessities that you may need in a couchette or sleeping car on an overnight European train route:
- Slippers for roaming around at night
- Eye mask for blocking out the light
- Snore strips (no one likes a noisy neighbor)
- Breathable socks you can sleep in
- Your nightly skincare routine
- Medicine like motion sickness pills and painkillers
What is most essential for a train trip in Europe in 2023? The Trainline app.
Download it today to purchase and store etickets, browse all timetables available for 45 countries, and easily identify your departure platform no matter the language.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, D3sign