How to pack for a train trip

Whether you're planning a quick countryside escape or an epic cross-border slow travel adventure, rail travel is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Europe and the UK, and knowing what to pack for the train can help make your journey run more smoothly.

Here’s everything you need to bring for train trips. From must-have essentials, what to pack for longer journeys and sleeper trains, to tried-and-tested tips to help you travel light, stay organised and enjoy the ride.

For more exclusive insights into slow travel journeys, overland travel inspiration and insider tips, subscribe to our newsletter.

Tommaso Pecchioli

Train travel essentials: what to pack

Essentials for every train trip

No matter how far you’re going, there are a few items that are essential for your journey:

• Important documents: printed and/or digital tickets, Interrail passes; passport or ID, travel insurance info

• Money: a credit/debit card, some bills or coins of the destination currency

• Phone and charging equipment: charging cable (a USB is always handy), international plug adapter, power bank

• Sanitary items: tissues; hand sanitiser, biodegradable wet wipes

• Medicines: prescriptions; painkillers, motion sickness tablets, antacids, plasters

• Luggage lock

• Reusable ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones

• SPF

• Sunglasses

• Reusable water bottle

• Snacks

• A waterproof and a warm layer

• A day bag or backpack

Essentials for long train journeys

If you’re spending a few hours or more on board, comfort and convenience really count. These extras can help you settle in for the long haul:

• A travel pillow (foldable or blow-up)

• Entertainment: books (or a kindle), notebook or sketchbook, games (e.g., a pack of cards), watercolour set, downloaded podcasts, playlists or tv shows

• Loose, breathable clothing

• Something to keep you warm: a jacket, blanket, scarf or shawl

• Toiletry bag to freshen up: toothbrush, mouthwash, deodorant

• Substantial snacks/train picnic

• Travel cutlery

Essentials for sleeper trains

Night trains are often a highlight of a trip, and they are almost always an adventure. With the right kit, you’ll sleep better and wake up ready to go:

• Sleepwear

• An eye mask

• Slip-on shoes or flip-flops

• Breathable socks

• Food for your evening meal (if there’s no dining car)

Cihat Hıdır

Packing tips for stress-free train trips

Check the weather

Before you pack, check the forecasts for your destination to get a better idea of what you’ll need while you’re away. But pack with flexibility in mind, especially for the UK and Northern Europe, where the weather can change in a flash. A waterproof jacket, a warm layer and sunglasses won't take up much space in your case, but will keep you comfortable whatever the skies decide.

Pack light

As train travel doesn't come with strict luggage limits, it's tempting take as much as you can. However, packing light will make your journey smoother, and much more enjoyable. Most European and UK trains allow two large bags and one smaller item, but try to keep it manageable. On a multi-stop journey, you’ll be carrying your bags through stations, onto public transport, and to your accommodation (and back again) several times.

To keep your bags lightweight, use packing cubes. They can save space in your case and keep everything tidy. While you’re away, make use of launderettes, so that you can take less with you (plus launderettes are the perfect place to take the pulse of local life).

Keep essentials close

Keep your passport, wallet, phone and tickets in a small bag that stays with you at all times. It makes things easier if you need to go to the bathroom, and means you’re not digging through your backpack, or case, every time you need something. A cross-body bag with an adjustable strap is always a great choice, especially one that can be worn across the body for extra security. If you don’t have one, try second-hand websites like Vinted or Thrift+. A luggage lock for your case is also a good idea for added peace of mind.

Stay charged

Many trains have charging points these days, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Especially if your tickets or travel plans are on your phone. Make a habit of charging your devices overnight, and carry your charger with an international plug adaptor (and/or USB cable), and a power bank just in case.

Bring your own snacks and drinks

Lots of trains across Europe and the UK have some sort of catering, whether that’s a snack trolley or a full dining cart. However, it’s not always guaranteed. Stock up at the station or pop into a local shop beforehand, so that you’re covered in case. Meanwhile, a reusable water bottle means you can stay hydrated (many stations have refill points). For longer journeys or sleeper train rides, bring along a bigger picnic, and get yourself a corkscrew for that bottle of local wine.

If you have dietary requirements, or there’s a snack you love, buy some of your favourites before you leave for your trip to make sure you’ve always got something to eat. If you’re vegan, powdered oat milk sachets and vegan energy bars can be a great addition to your kit.

‘Top tip: I always bring reusable cutlery with me. It makes packing, and eating, a train picnic nicer, easier and less messy.’

Dress for comfort

Layer up, wear breathable clothes, and choose shoes you can walk in (for the train and transfers). You'll be sitting for long periods, so pick an outfit that lets you relax and move easily. A scarf or jumper is useful for changing temperatures and can act as a blanket, adding a bit of extra comfort.

Bring entertainment

Looking out of the window is part of the joy of train travel, and an added bonus is having a few uninterrupted hours for getting lost in a book, sketching the scenery, or playing games with friends. Download your favourite tv shows, queue up a podcast, or bring along a book, whether it’s on your Kindle, or a good, old-fashioned paperback. If you’re feeling creative, bring a journal, notebook, or a watercolour set: to note, or draw, your thoughts along the way. Travelling in a group? A deck of cards, or some games are always fun (try Bananagrams or Mapominoes). For kids, a colouring book, and stickers work a treat.

‘Top tip: post-it notes are a great way to keep toddlers entertained on long train trips.’

Stay fresh

Whether you’re taking a three, five or eight-hour journey, it’s always nice to feel fresh after travelling. Taking some toiletries that you can keep in your backpack, such as deodorant, toothpaste (or mouthwash), wet wipes and tissues, means you can refresh yourself for arrival at your destination. Decant your favourite products from home into travel bottles, or empty sample pots, so you don’t have to take full size toiletries (or buy minis).

On overnight journeys, remember sleeper trains are like a hotel on wheels. For a good night's sleep, follow your normal bedtime routine, and settle in for the night. For extra peace and quiet, use an eye mask and earplugs, then fall asleep as the train gently rocks along the tracks.

For packing lists and apps to help you get more from your trip, take a look at 'Best travel apps: top 22'.

Curious about how trains work across Europe? 'Europe train travel 101' covers the basics, and if you'd like to know more about sleeper trains, read 'What to expect: sleeper train 101'.

Read more about the art of slow travel, why we love taking the local train, and six of the most scenic train trips in Europe.

Colin + Meg