Urgent Tips for Amtrak Travelers: 9 Lessons from 75 Hours on Rails

UPDATE: A travel reporter reveals critical lessons learned from spending 75 hours aboard Amtrak sleeper trains, highlighting must-know tips for future travelers. Joey Hadden, who embarked on long-haul journeys between New York City and Miami as well as Denver to Salt Lake City, urges passengers to prepare better for the unique challenges of overnight train travel.

Traveling on Amtrak’s overnight sleeper trains can be a rewarding experience, but Hadden’s insights shed light on several unexpected difficulties. With trips spanning from 30 hours to 15 hours, she emphasizes the need for proper preparation to enhance comfort and enjoyment.

One of the first lessons Hadden learned was about the reality of motion sickness. She noted that the trains are often as bumpy as a plane experiencing turbulence. “Had I known this before my trip, I might have packed some medicine to prevent motion sickness,” Hadden stated. The discomfort was especially noticeable in the top bunk, which she found to be the shakiest spot on the train.

Accommodations vary significantly, with Hadden spending $500 for a roomette and $1,000 for a more spacious bedroom. She found the beds more comfortable than expected, but the pillows left much to be desired. “I wished the ones provided to me on the train were a bit softer,” she said, although she noted that her 2025 trip featured improved pillows.

Another surprising revelation was the cramped conditions in the roomette. At just 25 square feet, Hadden felt confined even as a petite traveler. “If I were taller or larger, I imagine I would feel even more cramped,” she reflected, suggesting that upgrading to a bedroom may be worth it for those who need more space.

Hadden also highlighted unreliable internet service as a major issue during her journeys. “I planned to spend several hours working on my laptop, but the train’s internet connection was inconsistent,” she explained. On her latest trip in January 2025, she experienced no WiFi at all.

With time passing slowly on her long-haul journeys, Hadden felt the need for additional entertainment. She recommended downloading movies and shows beforehand, as her cell service fluctuated throughout the trips. “I was glad that I at least packed my Nintendo Switch and music,” she said.

Hydration is another crucial element to consider. Hadden learned the hard way that the cupholders in Amtrak accommodations fit standard 12-ounce bottles, leaving her oversized water bottle useless. “I would have packed a few smaller water bottles if I had known this,” she admitted.

Ultimately, Hadden’s biggest takeaway was to embrace the journey itself. “If you can think of the train ride as part of the vacation, you’ll find it much more enjoyable,” she concluded.

As train travel continues to gain popularity, these lessons from Hadden serve as essential advice for anyone considering an overnight Amtrak adventure. With careful preparation, future travelers can avoid common pitfalls and make the most of their journeys on the rails.

For those planning a trip, these insights are vital for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Share this information with fellow travelers to help them navigate the complexities of overnight train travel.