Have you ever wondered how people on a tight budget manage to go on extended trips? Well, you don't have to anymore because there are options for long-distance train rides.
These long-distance trains are a special kind of rail transportation designed to carry passengers over greater distances than local or regional trains. You'll likely find more comfort on these trains than on buses, as they offer more services and facilities. In addition, they’re less expensive than flying and more convenient to use due to less likelihood of delays.
But like any trip, you need to get ready ahead of time to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. This is particularly important for extended journeys when you’ll stay in one place for a considerable amount of time. Thus, here are some things you may do to get ready for your lengthy train ride:
1. Choose The Right Train
The first thing you'll have to decide when booking an Adelaide to Darwin Train Journey in Australia is what sort of train you want to use to travel the distance of 3,978 kilometers. High-speed trains, which may go as fast as 200 miles per hour, are one option if rapid transit is a top priority. This train is faster since it makes fewer stops along the way than the others.
However, if you're looking for a more relaxed ride, you may take advantage of the local trains' wider seats. But they stop at every station along the route, so they're noticeably slower than the types of trains.
2. Know The Amenities
In preparation for a long train journey, it’s important to learn about the services provided by your train so that you can pack appropriately.
The best way to pass the time on a lengthy train trip is to connect to the train's Wi-Fi network and stream some movies or TV shows. If you ever find yourself traveling without a companion, you'll have a way to stay in touch with your loved ones. Thus, check the train's website to see if it has its own Wi-Fi network; this will tell you if you need to carry your own portable Wi-Fi device.
The next piece of information you'll need is whether or not the train has a dining car. You can then determine if you need to carry any pre-packaged meals because you won't have access to any restaurants or vending machines. Food on trains, though, maybe rather pricey. If you're trying to save money, you might as well bring your own food.
3. Pack Light
Although it's true that you'll be gone for quite some time, it doesn't mean you have to bring absolutely everything you own with you. After all, you'll need to make your own way to the train station with your bags, and there may not be much room on board. Having a lot of luggage with you might make getting around a hassle.
If you're having trouble keeping your pack organized, a minimalist bag may be the answer. Don't overpack; only take what you need, such as clothing, travel-sized toiletries, electronics, a blanket, and a pillow.
Pick easy-to-style pieces that can be worn in several ways to minimize the bulk of your suitcase. Also, consider using baggage organizers to keep your things neat and save you from having to rummage around in your bags to find what you need.
4. Charge Your Electronics Before Leaving
Your batteries should be fully charged before you leave. This is especially important if you’re traveling alone so that you can assure your loved ones that you’re okay. Every passenger on a long-distance train ride nowadays has their own power outlet right at their seat. However, it’s advisable to have your own portable power bank in case you end up sitting in a seat with a faulty plug.
5. Wear Comfortable Outfit
Consider wearing loose, comfortable clothing, as you’ll be sitting for extended periods. For maximum mobility, a shirt and jeans are the ideal attire. But remember to take a light cardigan or large scarf to keep your shoulders warm on the trip. This is especially important since, if the central heating is left on, a night train can quickly get rather chilly.
Also, don't forget to pack a comfy pair of slippers to wear to the common area and in the shower. It's also a great way to give your feet a break and enjoy the fresh air on the train.
6. Choosing the berth
If travelling in extreme summers or winters book a AC 3 Tier. Biggest advantage is you don’t have to carry blankets with you if you are travelling in AC coaches. If you travel in AC coach, then will be provided with bedding. This includes a pillow, a blanket, two white sheets and two hand towels but in non AC coaches, you have to carry blankets with you to save yourself from the cold weather.
Temperature inside the compartment is set between 18–24 degrees as per the class which is far higher than the temperature outside the train i.e., 4–8 degrees. AC coaches are always peaceful as their windows are airtight so you don’t have to hear that track sound when you are trying to sleep. If travelling in spring or rainy season book a sleeper berth, otherwise you would miss some incredible scenic experience along the way.
In case of more than 6 hours journey, prefer night journey. You can convert your travel time into sleep time. Travelling at night, opt for the middle berth! Yes. You read it right. It's middle berth. The reason is over chilled upper berth may discomfort you.
Whereas on lower berth, passengers are more likely disturb you during their on-boarding/off-boarding. However for senior citizens, this is not feasible. If possible, enter your preferred seat number as 25–45 while booking. You do not want to get disturbed by the “always ON light” at the ends of the coaches.
Avoid Side Upper because it is not as safe as the Upper berth. One can easily steal your laptop bag/small luggage if you are out of berth for washroom or something else. Another reason to avoid Side Upper is that — if you are tall, you don't fit in there. Keep mobile in the pocket which is facing the wall of cabin while sleeping.
7. Change the boarding station
Not getting a confirmed ticket from a big station! Change the boarding station to a one which comes just before the big station in the railway route. If it is not so popular station, you will get a confirmed ticket.
8. Keep essential medicines
Carry few basic medicines for fever, headache, acidity etc. If you need doctor then Railways will provide you but it may take some time so better to carry some basic medicines with you.
9. Carry a variety of food
It is important to take good food and treat yourself from time to time during a train journey. It is almost like you have a bag full of surprises to spruce up your mood. It can be chocolates that are instant mood lifters, hot tea with biscuits or maybe something freshly cooked that you can access at any train station.
10. Learn more about your destination
It is basic that before going on a trip to any country or city, you research it. Make sure that the cities you are touring are worth going in particular weather. In case, you are heading off to a new place, knowing more about it will give you more destination goals. Go through the local map, take note of the hidden tourist spots, read about the culture, etc.
Conclusion
Long-distance train travel demands the same level of planning as any other kind of trip. Taking these precautions will guarantee that you have a smooth long train ride devoid of any hassles. Use the information above as a starting point for your research and preparations for your next lengthy journey.
