She pointed to the opposite track behind me.

“But allow for spontaneity and flexibility.”

The cheapest tickets tend to be midweek Tuesdays and Wednesdays."

Alaska Railroad train going by in a green environment near Bartlett Glacier

Teresa Severson/Courtesy of Alaska Rail

While last-minute tickets are often available, there’s no guarantee since popular routes and times do sell out.

But it’s still essential to pack smart.

Koszler suggests using bags with wheels andpacking light.

Smiling Woman Looking Through Train Window

Matthias Scholz/Eye Em/Getty Images

Like a plane trip, check the baggage allowance before boarding.

Storage options may also vary by area.

“Japanese [railroads] usually use the overhead racks.

Woman with a backpack walking in wagon in the train

Getty Images

Therefore, it’s better to keep your luggage as compact as possible.”

In the current pandemic, Harris suggests consideringAmtrak’s private room, available on many routes.

Also, be ready to go through pockets without cell service, especially in tunnels or remote areas.

“Bring your own hot spot if you really need to be online.”

For those who are prone to motion sickness, staying seated may be best.

“Station stops aren’t always announced or may be in a foreign language,” Koszler says.