Having logged 120 hours on six overnight train journeys across the US and Europe, I’ve learned that securing a good night’s sleep on these rides requires strategic packing. Whether traversing the East Coast on Amtrak or exploring European landscapes, the challenge remains universal — getting quality rest amid the rhythmic hum of the train, the footsteps of fellow passengers, and intermittent slivers of light filtering through the cabin curtains.
1. Earplugs: A Sleeper’s Essential
The importance of earplugs became abundantly clear after a restless initial experience on an overnight train. The constant hum and vibration of the moving train, coupled with the audible footsteps of passersby, posed a formidable sleep obstacle. Now, I ensure earplugs are a staple in my travel essentials. While some companies like Nightjet provide earplugs for their overnight routes, I prefer packing my own, creating a more serene sleep environment. With the intrusion of external sounds minimized, I rely on my phone’s vibrating alarm to ensure a timely wake-up for my stop.
Pro Tip: It’s worth investing in a comfortable pair of earplugs, although basic options from the drugstore also do the job.
2. Weighted Sleep Mask: Shutting Out Light
Acknowledging the challenge of light seeping through cabin curtains, especially during stops at well-lit platforms, I recently added a weighted sleep mask to my packing repertoire. Opting for the NodPod, a $34 mask filled with calming beads, I found it to be a game-changer. Similar to the effect of a weighted blanket, the NodPod provided an extra layer of comfort, almost transporting me to the familiar coziness of my own bed. Paired with earplugs, this combination resulted in the most restful overnight train sleep I’ve experienced.
Travel Tip: A weighted sleep mask is not only a train essential but a valuable companion for those challenging sleep environments on planes and cruises.
In conclusion, a few carefully chosen items can significantly enhance the overnight train experience, transforming it from a potential sleepless ordeal to a restful journey. As someone who has navigated both shared and private accommodations, I can attest that these packing suggestions have proven effective, ensuring a more tranquil and enjoyable travel experience on the rails.
