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The Best Ways to Travel Long-Distance

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Forget the Summer of Love, this summer is all about fun! Specifically adventures and trips with friends or family— safely , of course. But getting to your destination is only half the battle.

And while it might be tempting to embark on a 10-hour drive rather than try to organize a train trip, car crashes are the leading cause of death when traveling in the US. Rather than letting potential hurdles get the best of your exciting plans, allow us to do the gritty work for you.

We’ve compiled a list of the best and safest ways to travel long-distance, so you can focus on the fun times ahead.

Long-distance travel

• Travel statistics
• Automobiles

Long-distance travel statistics

• Americans travel a total of 1.3 trillion miles per year. 1
• 56% of long-distance trips are for pleasure. 1
• 98% of long-distance trips are within the US. 1
• 62% of long-distance trips are within the traveler’s home state. 1
• Automobile: 42,338
• Air: 2,068 miles
• Train: 192 miles
• Automobile: 194 miles

#1 safest way to travel

Nothing says  travel  more than catching a plane to a neighboring state or far-off, distant land. There’s something extraordinary and magical about watching the landscape shrink before your eyes as a plane takes flight and gains elevation. And for argument’s sake, there’s no better place on earth to watch a sunset or sunrise grow from light pink to brilliant hues of orange, purple, and deep blue.

It’s easy to see how folks of all ages can become enamored with plane travel: it’s efficient, romantic, and exciting. Plus, there were zero deaths during scheduled airline travel in 2020, which is a comforting statistic—even if you scale plane passenger miles with automobiles, planes would still be the safest way to travel. 2

But there are other perks to aerial voyages—planes take you from point A to point B quickly, making them ideal for international travel or quick trips. And if you have children under the age of two, they fly for free.

Things to consider when traveling by plane

• It’s speedy Regardless of how much time you’ve set aside for vacation, jet-setting your way to a destination is the safest, and one of the fastest, ways for you to get there. So if you’re in a pinch or looking to optimize on a long weekend, getting there by plane is the way to go.
• It’s also exhausting Navigating airports, terminals, baggage claims, and countless other people is tiring and can be tough on everyone—not just kids or aging adults.

Pack a pair of pajamas in your carry-on—just in case. You never know when a flight could get cancelled or delayed, and sleeping in the clothes you’ve been traveling in simply won’t do.

Tricks and tips for your trip

• Say hello to organization station Keep electronics with electronics, toiletries with toiletries, and snacks with snacks. Not only does this approach make it easy for TSA to see what’s in your bag, but it also helps you stay organized as you navigate your travel itinerary.
• You may need to wear a mask in the airport and on the plane—check local and federal guidelines before your trip to know what to expect.
• Time it right When you’re flying with little kids or trying to make a connection, timing is everything. Make sure you give yourself enough time to grab your ticket, get through security, stop at the bathroom, and collect yourself before your flight.
• Keep alcohol consumption to a minimum As tempting as it might be to throw back a few glasses of wine, drinking while flying can give you quite the hangover and impact your immune system’s strength.
• Expect the unexpected Be it an  inconsolable baby , a delayed flight, or an occupied bathroom when you just gotta go, you have little control over what happens, so try to roll with the punches.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes We’re not talking pajama pants (though if you’re so inclined, do it), but donning comfy clothes will make your travels all the better. Also, avoid flip-flops or sandals—both types of footwear are tough to walk around in when you’re in a hurry. Instead wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off. Just don’t forget your socks!

#2 safest way to travel

Once upon a time, trains were the lifeblood of travel in the United States—it was largely the only way people could sightsee or visit family members in other states. But trains have become extremely underutilized—relegated as slow-moving relics that only urban commuters ride.

But trains are not only safe; they also provide a sense of laid-back luxuriousness that you don’t get when traveling by plane or car. After you board the train, all you need to do is take a seat and let the personnel do the “driving” for you. And the loveliest part of all? You get to watch the world unfold all around you.

Some trains have cars that are designed specifically for unobstructed nature viewing. These scenic cars are particularly exciting for kids since they offer an unhampered picture of what the world outside the train looks like.

Plus, there’s usually a fully stocked bar on those cars, too, so you can enjoy a beverage and  stop to smell the roses, rather than having to focus on the road or navigate a busy airport terminal.

Things to consider when traveling by train

• It’s luxurious Between the plush seats, ample leg room, sleeper cars, and stress-free approach, travel by train offers a lavish experience. Plus, you get to skip traffic, long lines, and restrictive seat belts.
• It’s more affordable than flying Travel isn’t cheap—but embarking on a voyage via train is generally much cheaper than flying, especially if you’re trekking a short distance.
• It can take a while Trains aren’t the fastest way to get around. So if you’ve got a tight time frame, you’re probably better off flying.
• Spring for the sleeper car You won’t regret a good night’s rest, and the sleeper cars offer just that.
• Pack an eye mask Distractions are everywhere on a train. Bring along a light-blocking eye mask , and while you’re at it, grab some noise cancelling headphones to tune out any annoying conversations.
• Check your luggage Keep stress levels to a minimum and check large bags—but don’t forget to bring a small carry on with necessities.
• Enjoy the ride Train travel is going to take a long time, so indulge in the slow-going nature of it and enjoy the small moments with your family.
• Bring reading and play materials Whether you prefer audio books or an iPad, train travel invites you to slow down and take the time to catch up on reading. If you’re traveling with kids , make sure to bring along some puzzles, Play-Doh , and other toys. Packable, family-friendly games (like Uno or a travel-size board game) are great as well.

Don’t forget the camera! Train travel is very picturesque, so make sure you snap some photos.

Automobiles 🚗

Most dangerous way to travel.

When compared to the passenger death data from planes and trains, automobiles are the most dangerous method of travel. Driving requires a lot of responsibility and attention, and it can be difficult to fully focus when you’re driving a car filled with antsy kids and luggage.

On top of it, you have to navigate other drivers’ bad driving skills, making long-distance road trips extremely stressful. On the other hand, automobiles provide fast and dependable transport to rural areas where an airport or train station aren’t available.

• North Dakota is the most dangerous state for drivers .
• Montana has the highest drunk driving deaths per capita.
• Arkansas is the most dangerous state to drive in when it's raining .

Things to consider when traveling by automobile

It’s quick and affordable If you’re only going a few towns over, driving to your destination can get you there in a timely fashion—and it won’t cost nearly as much as a plane or train ticket.

It’s more dangerous When driving, you have to take into account other people’s actions and operate on a defensive level. This can be especially taxing when you’re driving a car filled with luggage and family members.

• Keep your eyes on the road Distracted driving is one of the biggest causes of automobile fatalities and accidents. Keep your driving distraction-free by delegating tasks to a capable copilot.
• Pack an emergency road kit If you experience car trouble, an emergency road kit will help you react quickly and effectively to the situation at hand.
• Sign up for AAA Regardless of where you are in the US, or even if you’re not in your car, a AAA membership will help you get out of a sticky situation—whether it’s a flat tire, a broken axle, or an empty gas tank.
• Pack snacks Foods like fresh fruit or veggies can offer a tasty reprieve from typical gas station fare.
• Nap it off If you’re feeling sleepy, a nap is a surefire way to help prevent an accident. If it’s safe, pull over to the side of the road and take a thirty-minute rest before continuing on your journey.
• Bring your toothbrush To help rouse yourself post nap, brush your teeth. Plus, fast food and gas station snacks don’t exactly translate into fresh breath, so a little scrub-a-dub-dub can help offset the travel grime.

Wear polarized sunglasses . They’ll protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays and ease any discomfort or eye strain that you can experience when going shades-free.

From a security standpoint, planes and trains have more safety protocols in place to ensure everyone gets to their destination in one piece. So as you drum up ideas for summer vacations and family trips, consider:

• The distance you want to travel
• How much money you want to spend on transportation

Both factors will help you decide what method of travel is best for your family. From there, the sky’s the limit (especially if you choose to take a plane)!

Related articles on SafeWise

• 9 Holiday Travel Safety Tips for Your Next Getaway
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• How to Find Pet Care While You're On Vacation
• Tips for Traveling Safely With Your Pet
• 10 Motorcycle Safety Tips Every Rider Should Know
• Bureau of Transportation Statistics, " National Household Travel Survey Long Distance Travel Quick Facts ," May 2017. Accessed on April 4, 2022.
• National Security Council, " Home & Community Safety: Airplane Crashes - Injury Facts ," 2021. Accessed on April 4, 2022.
• National Security Council, " Railroad Deaths and Injuries - Injury Facts ," 2021. Accessed on April 4, 2022.
• National Security Council, " Motor Vehicle - Introduction - Injury Facts ," 2021. Accessed on April 4, 2022.

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The Best Scenic Long-Distance Train Trips To Take In The US

There are so many ways to explore the country, and traveling by train is one of the most scenic options available. With more than a few incredible long-distance train routes at one's disposal, seeing as much of the U.S. as possible, in all its stunning beauty, isn't hard to do. From breathtaking coastal passenger convoys to captivating cross-country superliners and everything in between, the nation is brimming with exciting vacation opportunities via train.

Many top-rated rail journeys showcase abundant national wonders, including famous mountain ranges, national parks, landmarks, and more. Plus, opting for a train trip, in general, offers passengers a relaxing way to enjoy America's diverse landscape and stop at various major cities. Of course, wanderers looking to get out there and immerse themselves in this country's picture-perfect natural scenery by way of passenger trains undoubtedly have some excellent options. If you are unsure where to begin, here are the best scenic long-distance train trips in the U.S. to consider for your next rail tour.

Capitol Limited

Aboard the Capitol Limited, passengers can enjoy a leisurely trip between Washington, D.C. and Chicago. Approximately an 18-hour overnight journey, the Capitol Limited travels over 760 miles and stops in major cities such as Pittsburgh and Cleveland. During this rail tour, travelers can expect all-around striking views of the Allegheny Mountains, Potomac River, Harpers Ferry National Park, and much more. Capitol Limited passengers can also marvel at the one-of-a-kind Pittsburgh cityscape and gaze upon Ohio farmlands before rolling into the Windy City when traveling westbound.

Passengers can also select from a variety of accommodations and amenties distributed among the train's upper and lower levels. An unrestricted dining service for travelers in private rooms is also available. An added bonus is that this train has a pet program, allowing your small dog or cat to appreciate the views right along with you. Note, however, that there is no WiFi and observation car on this route.

Coast Starlight

Traveling between Seattle to Los Angeles aboard the Coast Starlight gives passengers a front-row seat to the natural splendor of the West Coast. With stops in places like Portland and Sacramento, this Amtrak route covers 1,377 miles and takes approximately 36 hours. But Coast Starlight passengers typically do not mind the travel time, thanks to the views and comfortable accommodation options meeting various financial capabilities. 

From lush forested land and snowcapped mountains to waves lapping against golden beaches, the Coast Starlight does not disappoint whatsoever in the scenery department. In fact, this famed Amtrak route ranks high among most travelers with its stunning vistas and roomy accommodations. Plus, in the middle of the train, passengers will find quite the observation car, which allows train riders to drink up all the sights unobstructed. So if it is the scenic variety you so strongly desire, the Coast Starlight is at your service.

Sunset Limited

Yet another amazing Amtrak getaway that awaits train travelers is the Sunset Limited. Passengers will embark on a magnificent route from New Orleans and arrive in Los Angeles. This 48-hour rail excursion has multiple stops in popular cities like San Antonio, Tucson, and Phoenix. Along the way, otherworldly vistas of the Bayou, the southwestern desert, and the Rocky Mountains can be seen as well.

But that's not all that the Sunset Limited has to offer. With three departures traversing this route weekly, passengers can also revel in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, ample southwestern historical sites, and the nearby allure of places like Houston and Palm Springs. The Sunset Limited is a superliner with the expected accommodations. It is the perfect route for crossing a few spectacular national parks off your bucket list, like Big Bend National Park and Saguaro National Park. And an additional bonus here is you can easily access other popular journeys when traveling on the Sunset Limited, such as the Texas Eagle, San Joaquins, and even the Coast Starlight.  

Amtrak Cascades

The Amtrak Cascades train trip is a must for travelers looking to check out the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia while marveling at dramatic vistas of untouched wilderness. Running from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Eugene, Oregon, Amtrak Cascades riders will see lush forested areas and the great Columbia River Gorge. There are also flowing waterfalls, a volcano, ample coastal cities, plus a plethora of mountain ranges, including the Cascade Mountains. This nearly 10.5-hour, 467-mile train tour has stops in Seattle, Tacoma, Portland, and Salem.

With all the first-rate scenery and natural attractions, passengers may almost overlook that the Amtrak Cascades is not your ordinary Amtrak train. But this European-style train is quite a sight to behold, with its sleek design, large viewing windows, comfy reclining seats, and beautiful Bistro Car that gives travelers a taste of the Pacific Northwest. And even though this U.S. train trip covers parts of Vancouver, the Amtrak Cascades still undoubtedly offers incredible views through  Oregon .

Pacific Surfliner

The Pacific Surfliner is another train route worth considering for your next scenic rail tour. Leaving San Diego, the Pacific Surfliner covers over 350 miles in roughly six hours and has several stops along the way in addition to major cities like Anaheim, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara. With its final destination being San Luis Obispo, this southbound train allows passengers a chance to kick back and relax while enjoying the view. These include miles of pristine beaches, picturesque vineyards, the rugged coastline, the Pacific Ocean, and ample historic sites in San Luis Obispo.

Since this scenic route is fairly short when it comes to travel time, riding the Pacific Surfliner south or northbound is an excellent choice for a Southern California half-day trip. Passengers will find standard accommodations (coach or business class seating) and great onboard amenities. So if you plan to be in the San Diego area or have always wanted to see more of the Golden State, why not make the most of your time and appreciate the scenery via train?

Rocky Mountaineer

For one-of-a-kind views of one of the most popular mountains in the U.S. and a truly memorable travel experience , the Rockies to the Red Rocks route aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is another great option. Departing from Moab, Utah, this nearly 370-mile train tour is a two-day adventure that passes through Glenwood Spring and ends in the Mile High City. Here, Rocky Mountaineer passengers can revel in gorgeous vistas of Mount Garfield, Ruby Canyon, abundant pristine wilderness, and much more.

Once in the resort town of Glenwood Springs, travelers disembark for an overnight stay in the available hotel accommodations. After a little rest, Glenwood Springs-style, it is off to Denver. A few scenic highlights on day two include views of the Colorado River, breathtaking canyons, desert lands, the Colorado Rockies, the Continental Divide, the Moffat Tunnel, and the picturesque Denver cityscape. And with first-class amenities, dinner, breakfast, lunch, and signature cocktails at every stop, this iconic Rocky Mountaineer route is a pleasant and beautifully scenic train trip.

Empire Builder

The Empire Builder is a train tour that showcases the American West in all its glory. With daily departures from Chicago to Portland and Seattle, travelers have much to see on this 46-hour, 2,760-plus mile getaway. Aboard the Empire Builder, riders can enjoy stops at St Paul or Minneapolis, and Spokane, with the final destination being Portland or Seattle.

Of course, regardless of which route you choose here, you can savor views of Wisconsin's woodlands, shimmering lakes in Minnesota, idyllic prairies in North Dakota, and even catch a glimpse of the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies. After reaching Montana, the southern border of Glacier National Park is also all yours to see, and as you make your way to either Portland or Seattle, expect to see some of the most pristine wilderness around. Overall, the Empire Builder is touted as one of the most picturesque ways to relish the Chicago skyline, marvel at so many of the natural wonders in Glacier National Park, and appreciate the overall splendor of the Pacific Northwest — making it an incredibly scenic train trip that should be on everyone's bucket lists.

The Amtrak Vermonter is a top-rated rail tour to add to your traveling-by-train bucket list. Leaving from Washington, D.C., and arriving in St. Albans, Vermont, this train takes passengers on a spectacular journey through the Green Mountain State. An almost 14-hour ride of approximately 611 miles, the Vermonter showcases rural Vermont with its rolling green hills, picture-perfect little villages, striking countryside, impressive resorts, colonial-era historical sites, and pristine landscape. Aboard, passengers will traipse via train through beautiful destinations, including New York City, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

This downright charming Amtrak train also has a daily southbound journey with stops in other beloved east coast cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore. What's more, the Vermonter has roomy seating (in both business class and coach), great amenities, and an onboard café, plus it is pet-friendly. So there is no reason not to take in all that the Green Mountain State and these other amazing destinations  have to offer through scenery and more.

California Zephyr

Running from Chicago to San Francisco, the California Zephyr is one of the best train tours in the country, especially when it comes to phenomenal scenery. This 2,438-mile westbound train trip takes a little over 51 hours (or three days) to complete and brims with scenic highlights. California Zephyr riders can get up close and personal with the country's impressive Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada, Nebraska's farmland plains, desert lands, prairies, canyons, valley vistas, and then some.

With stops in Omaha, Denver, and Salt Lake City , passengers have more than a few stunning backdrops to admire. Plus, the California Zephyr knows how to put on a good show with crystal clear floor-to-ceiling windows in the main lounge car that offer otherworldly views — so you can expect to be utterly mesmerized on this rail tour. That said, the California Zephyr is a stellar pick for anyone looking to enjoy a scenic, leisurely ride.

The Adirondack Line by Amtrak is one of the best long-distance train trips for New Yorkers looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, if only for a few hours. Departing from New York City, the Adirondack rail tour stops in Albany and whisks passengers off to Montreal. Along this route, as the New York City skyline starts to fade, Adirondack riders are transported through the renowned Hudson Valley wine country, past the shimmering shores of Lake Champlain, alongside the Adirondack Mountains, and onward.

This 380-plus-mile ride takes approximately 10 hours, making this rail tour ideal for an impromptu weekend trip. And for those headed southbound, the Adirondack makes getting to New York City and connecting routes to Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., a breeze. With standard seating, the Adirondack Café Car, and the usual amenities, the Adirondack is the perfect little getaway train to see all the beauty that awaits in upstate New York and beyond.

Yellowstone National Park Getaway

Though this is a shorter journey of roughly 360 miles round trip, Amtrak's Yellowstone National Park Getaway is a wonderful way to experience one of the U.S.'s favorite national wonders, unspoiled wilderness, and more. A five-day excursion by train that transports passengers from Salt Lake City in Utah to Yellowstone National Park. This route is littered with picturesque mountain and countryside vistas. It gives parkgoers ample time to check out all of the great attractions in Yellowstone, including Old Faithful, an abundance of wildlife, and the enchanting Isa Lake on the Continental Divide.

Travelers will disembark and stay at hotel accommodations within the park for roughly two days. A sightseeing tour via the park's Lower Loop is also a part of this Amtrak package. After spending ample time in Yellowstone National Park , this once-in-a-lifetime experience takes you back to Crossroads of the West (Salt Lake City). This package includes a two-night stay in Salt Lake City as well.

Southwest Chief

The Southwest Chief is just one more incredible long-distance train trip that departs from Chicago and ends in Los Angeles. What makes this rail tour a little different is that the Southwest Chief heads southwest, as its name implies. With stops in Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff in Arizona , passengers get a chance to appreciate a slightly different section of the U.S. map.

A 40-plus hour journey covering more than 2,250 miles is what awaits Southwest Chief riders. But, undoubtedly, the scenery alone here makes this train getaway totally worth it. So if you have been dreaming of the plains of Iowa, vibrant colored southwestern mountain ranges, vistas of the Painted Desert, and the Red Cliffs of Sedona by chance, then purchase a ticket for this impressive two-story superliner now. The Southwest Chief has ample onboard accommodations for singles, families, friends, and large groups. Nevertheless, booking in advance and thoroughly planning for this particular train trip is highly recommended.

Great America Majestic Landscape

Travelers looking for a true coast-to-coast rail tour needn't look any further than the Great America Majestic Landscape by Amtrak. Departing from New York City, the Great America Majestic Landscape train trip is a lovely way to marvel at all the beauty of the U.S. without leaving any stone unturned. With its final destination being San Francisco , it is unsurprising that this is a 12-plus-day excursion.

The scenic highlights include the Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Canyon, Napa Valley, Sonoma, and ample opportunities to enjoy famous landmarks like the New York skyline, the Chicago Navy Pier, and more. This multi-day train adventure includes sightseeing tours in various cities, hotels, and onboard accommodations. Ultimately, whether you want to see all of America's stunning landscape here or prefer to start slow with any of the other railway tours on this list, there is nothing like traveling by train — so get out there and take a long-distance train trip or two in the U.S.

Before we wrap up, long-distance train travel tips

For first-timers or passengers that have only experienced short train trips, there are several helpful tips to make your journey more carefree. Much like any other form of travel, preparation is key. In addition to having the necessary train travel essentials in tow, newbie passengers should take the time to draft a pre-departure checklist. Doing so lets you ensure you have important travel documents, medications, and other items handy on the day of departure. Speaking of packing, if you do not plan on checking luggage, only pack what you can carry. 

Other train travel must-haves include dressing comfortably for your longer-than-normal journey and booking onboard accommodations in advance for overnight and cross-country rail tours. It also never hurts to plan for delays and download the necessary apps to streamline your adventure. And for the best views while onboard, westbound travelers should be on the right side of the train, and eastbound travelers should be on the left to avoid missing out on gorgeous scenery.

10 things to know when traveling long distance by train

• Taking a long-haul train isn't easy, so there are some things to know before making the trek.
• When I took a 19-hour Amtrak ride from New York to Chicago , I learned you should travel alone and bring earplugs. 
• Pricing can vary, but it's probably more expensive than you think. 
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories .

Before booking a ticket, you should know train travel can be expensive, especially for long-haul trips.

Although train travel will take double or triple the amount of time when compared to flying, it doesn't necessarily mean the tickets will be cheaper. In fact, booking a ticket on a long-haul Amtrak train can cost anywhere from $100 to over $1,000 depending on when you book and how far apart your starting and destination locations are.

For example, I booked a small room on the Lake Shore Limited Amtrak train from New York to Chicago, and it cost $550. Flights between those two destinations could cost as little as $70 on a good day.

You can book a regular seat in coach or a room in the sleeper car.

The regular seats in coach can cost around $100, and they don't come with any meals or places to sleep.

As for the rooms, they sleep two to four people and can cost well over $1,000. The rooms have beds to sleep on, private toilets, and sinks.

Although Amtrak lets you bring on more luggage than a flight, you should still pack light.

Amtrak allows you to carry on two bags that weigh less than 50 pounds and two personal bags that weigh less than 25 pounds. If you want to check your luggage — and if it's available on your route — your first two bags are free. 

Although you can get away with bringing six pieces of luggage without paying extra, it's not advised. When boarding, you might have to walk down the length of the train to get to your car, and you don't want to be lugging that many bags with you. Plus, if you rent a sleeper room, those spaces are tiny, and storage space for your luggage is very limited. 

When you get on the Amtrak train, you should wipe everything down with a sanitary wipe.

According to Amtrak , it has been "utilizing EPA-registered cleaning products and enhancing cleaning on commonly used surfaces" in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

Still, it's a good habit to wipe your space down before settling in. Remember, you'll be spending hours in that seat or room, so you want to be as comfortable and safe as possible.

There are food options on long-haul trains, but they are limited so you should pack some snacks.

If you book a room, your ticket includes two meals, but in my experience the food is not great, resembling food you'd find on a plane. When I took my 19-hour train ride, I was served pasta with chicken and veggies, a small salad, and a roll. The pasta was passable, but I thought the chicken was basically inedible. I didn't eat the salad because it was just a couple of pieces of lettuce. The best part of the meal was the roll with butter. 

Additionally, the Amtrak trains have a dining car, which I found to be more formal and expensive. There's also usually a snack car where you can buy cheap bites. 

Instead of spending a lot of money on subpar foods, I'd recommend packing a small bag of snacks.

You'll want to have easy access to a change of clothes during the long-haul journey.

When it's time to sleep, you'll want to change into sweatpants, so you're more comfortable. In the morning, you'll want to wear fresh clothes to start the day and get you through the last hours of your journey.

You don't want these outfits buried in a suitcase, so have them at the ready. 

In my experience, it's easier to travel alone on a long-haul train than with another person.

If you booked coach seats, it could be difficult to fall asleep in an upright position with your travel companion right next to you. Similarly, if you booked one of the rooms, they are cramped, even though they are supposed to fit two people.

While everyone will have a different preference and comfort level when it comes to travel, if you travel alone you might feel like there is more space to sleep and relax on the long-haul journey. 

You'll most likely need earplugs if you plan on sleeping during the journey.

Unlike a plane, train travel can be quite noisy. The sounds of the train clanging along on the tracks and the train whistle can be quite jarring and distracting. For someone like me who is a light sleeper, these noises can be quite bothersome. 

It's a good idea to bring along earplugs to ensure a restful night's sleep because I found the best way to pass time on a long-haul journey is to sleep.  

Bring entertainment because the scenery outside the window won't always be eye-catching.

In most advertisements for Amtrak, you'll see images of people looking out the window at beautiful landscapes. That isn't always the case. Sometimes you'll look out onto endless train tracks, empty fields, and suburban streets.

In other words, don't depend on the view to be your only source of entertainment. Instead bring a book, a laptop with movies downloaded, or a solo game to help pass the time. 

At some stops along the way, the train will stay for several minutes, and you should take advantage of that time.

At some stations, the train stays for 10 to 15 minutes for schedule adjustments or refueling. The crew usually announces on the loudspeaker when the train will be staying put for a bit, so you should put that time to good use.

Step off the train, get some fresh air, and stretch your legs. Breaking up the long journey with a change of scenery will help get you through the trek. 

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Pack for the Track: Tips for the Long-Distance Traveler

Every long-distance journey begins with one decision – how will you get there? Fortunately, with Amtrak, every choice is a good one. A coach car comes with comfortable seating, reclining foot rests, and at night these cars are kept quiet and dark. On the other hand, reserving a sleeping cabin for long-distance travel gives you a private space to call your own. So once you land on how you’ll travel across the land, check out our travel pro tips for how to pack and prepare to go the distance with Amtrak.

Make Yourself At Home

• Comfy Shoes  – Bring something comfortable to wear as you either unwind in your seat or stretch your legs while exploring multiple cars.
• Change of Clothes  – Keep an outfit or two in your carry-on to freshen up along the way.
• Bon Appetit!  – Long-distance trains come with a dining car where passengers can make reservations for full meals. And if you are staying in a roomette or bedroom, all dining car meals are included!

Bring Some Basics

• Soft-Side Cooler  – There are great meal and snack options on-board Amtrak trains, but you can also bring your own refreshments in a compact cooler.
• Travel Documents and Back-Ups  – Keep cards and documents on you for quick access on-board and at stops. Take a photo of your cards and documents on your phone, too, for emergency back-ups if any of your items get misplaced.
• Share the Views  – Amtrak has free Wi-Fi available on select trains, so you can chat online, surf the web, or show off photos of your favorite views.

Stay Entertained on the Train

• Games – Put on your game face and pass the time with playing cards or travel-sized board games.
• Enjoy the View  – The ever-changing landscapes and breathtaking views are legendary on Amtrak superliners. Bring a camera to capture your favorite moments and bust out some binoculars if you want to go in-depth from your comfy perch in the observation car.
• Reading Material  – Train time if your time, which means you finally have time to read! Bring that book you’ve always wanted to enjoy, load up your Kindle, or enjoy Amtrak’s official magazine, The National .

When you plan a long-distance trip by rail, you’re planning on a one-of-a-king experience. With private rooms, meals, and accommodations on-boars like free Wi-Fi, “getting there” is more than half the fun. Fore even more perks on Amtrak trips, go the distance and turn those memorable miles into useful points with the Amtrak Guest Rewards Program .

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10 Tips for Long-Distance Amtrak Trips

Judy Colbert

Judy Colbert is a Maryland-based award-winning writer and photographer who has been writing about travel and the business of travel for thirty-five years. She has written 36 books (including the first international spa guide) and numerous articles that have appeared in international, national, and regional publications, and on the Internet. Her favorite moment is when someone says, "I didn't know that," in response to something she's written

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Looking to travel the slow and scenic route? There are fifteen long-haul Amtrak routes between the East and West Coasts and from North to South, including the Auto-Train and the train they call the City of New Orleans (think Arlo Guthrie). Here are 10 tips for making the most of a long-distance Amtrak trip.

Accommodations

You have several options for accommodations. On long-distance trains, there are a selection of sleeping rooms available, including handicapped-accessible, family (for up to two adults and three children), a roomette (chairs that convert to a bed, an upper berth, and a shower and bathroom available for roomette passengers). 

Bedrooms have a sofa that converts to a bed, an upper berth that pulls down, a small closet, a sink, bathroom, and shower. The bedrooms also have a small pulldown table with a game board on it if you bring checkers or a chess set, or for a dining surface. 

Sleeping car passengers receive meals, bottled water, and a beverage that can be alcoholic or not (and you can bring a bottle of wine or other beverage with you to consume in your bedroom). A sleeping car attendant is available to make the bed, carry and stow your luggage, and other services. Sleeping car attendants are usually tipped $10-20 a day per passenger. Note: due to Covid-19 regulations, cash is not accepted in the café car or elsewhere, so be sure to bring an active credit card.

Some bedrooms have a connecting door for a family or couples traveling together. The attendant will open the door for you which offers a little more room to socialize.

Amtrak tickets include two suitcases , each up to 50 pounds, and a carry-on bag at no charge. Bring snacks and beverages with you or buy from the café car. Whether you’re in coach or a sleeper, you can walk around whenever you want (with a face mask). 

Now, what do you need on your multi-day/night trip? If you travel light, just yourself and some basics. Plenty of passengers enjoy every aspect and idiosyncrasy of train travel. If you’re packing a lot of clothes for a vacation or long-term visit, bring an overnight bag with your essentials and put your big bag(s) in the luggage rack. If you’re starting in a cold-weather climate and you’re headed toward warm weather (or vice-versa), pack a change of clothes in the overnight bag. Don’t forget pajamas , shower shoes (or flip-flops ), a toothbrush and toothpaste , earplugs and an eye mask if you are a light sleeper.

While blankets are available, you might want to bring one , just in case. And, you may want to keep a sweater handy. An LED nightlight , multi-plug adapter , multiple chargers for your electronics, a travel-size pillow , a cooler (find a small one that slips over the handle of your suitcase), small roll of duct tape (for metal panels that rattle), sanitizing wipes , and binder clips (to hold the curtains together in case the Velcro has lost its grip).

YETI Launches Game-Changing Luggage for Travel

Amtrak offers a number of discounts, for seniors, children, military (and retired military), and disabled. They offer 15-, 30-, and 45-day trips that allow you to make eight, 12, or 18 segments for a fixed price for adults, youth (13-15), and child (2-12). Infants under two are free. They also offer discounts for groups, and periodically will have a two-for sale. Amtrak and Bank of America offer an affiliate program with bonus miles for a specific spend and train travel discounts when using the credit card.

Reservations

You can make reservations online ( www.amtrak.com ), but it’s not the most user-friendly program. Once you know where you want to go, call Amtrak (1-800-USA-RAIL) and when “Julie” answers, ask for an agent. You have to be a little persistent, but once you reach a human, they’re the nicest agents you’ll find. They’ll compare prices at various times and figure how many reward points you need for each leg. They’ll also let you book one leg with points and another with a credit card. Book as far in advance as possible, for the prices are dynamic and change according to availability and demand. If you’re trying to reserve a specific date and there are no bedrooms available, check again at midnight. The computer clears any non-paid reservations at 11:59 p.m., thus a bedroom could become available.

Take Advantage of Stops

Check the time schedule or talk with a conductor to ask when the train will make a water or crew change stop and schedule that time to insert or remove your contact lenses or wash up before bed or apply makeup or shaving. It’s a lot easier doing these things when the train is stationary rather than moving along at 60 mph or faster.

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While the free WiFi is fairly reliable along the Northeast Corridor (between Washington, D.C. and Boston), it’s intermittent at best throughout the rest of the system. Therefore, download any videos you may want to watch along the way at home before you board the train.

Photo Tricks

When you’re taking photos remember that you’re shooting through a window. In other words, turn off the flash. You can also take a U.S. map to mark your progress.

Medications

Amtrak can’t keep medications (e.g., insulin) on ice. The sleeping car attendant may bring a bag of ice to you, but it’s not a real solution. That’s when you need the little ice chest.

Acela Lounges

When you book a room or roomette, you get access to the staffed Acela lounge (Washington, D.C.) or Metropolitan Lounge (Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland, OR, New York), and unstaffed lounges at St Paul/Minneapolis, St. Louis, and New Orleans.

Amtrak fans have created numerous Facebook pages where you can learn about news of Amtrak in general or a specific line in particular, meet others who may be traveling your route at the same time, and suggestions to make your trip more enjoyable.

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Everything You Need to Know About Long-Distance Train Travel

Whether you’re a seasoned train traveler or just a beginner, here are some tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

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Have you ever wanted to see the country in an intimate, fun way? Or meet new people while you travel? Or maybe you just want to fly less?

But the best thing about Amtrak is that every trip feels like an adventure, and, for a little while, the train becomes a temporary home. Most of my trips are around 18 hours, but I’ve also taken an 80-hour trip. People can be on the train for hundreds of hours, depending on their destination and route.

Because of this, long-distance train travel can be frustrating if you’re not prepared. The difference between an amazing trip and a miserable one can come down to knowing a few tricks. And it definitely has a lot to do with what you pack.

So, here are some essential tips, like bringing your own sheets, to make long-distance train travel a dream.

Join the Rewards Program

If you plan on taking lots of trips with Amtrak, it’s a smart move to join its Guest Rewards Program, which means you can use that toward trips — it’s especially good for those pricier sleeper cars. For every dollar you spend on train travel, you earn 2 points that you can use toward travel or other perks. But the secret to earning lots of points is to make eligible purchases beyond Amtrak. For instance, you can earn points if you book your hotel or rent your car through the Rewards program and by shopping at places like the Apple Store and Home Depot. Also, should you decide the Amtrak credit card is for you, you’ll get up to 20,000 bonus points and earn points on all purchases you make with the card, and you could potentially earn three times the points per dollar spent on travel.

Try Rail Passes!

If you’re planning on doing a lot of long-distance train travel, you might want to consider getting a rail pass. While they’re a more cost-effective way of seeing multiple places, it’s important to know that tickets are only applicable to the coach class and not sleeper cars. For $499, the USA Rail Pass lets you take 10 rides over 30 days to your choice of more than 500 destinations. The California Rail Pass is more specific, letting you travel from San Diego to San Francisco and from Lake Tahoe to Los Angeles. It allows for seven days of travel in California over a 21-day period for $159 for adults and $79.50 for children ages 2 to 12. But even though these lines go through California, the pass isn’t valid on the Sunset Limited, the Southwest Chief, the California Zephyr, and the Texas Eagle. You also can’t book the California Rail Pass online; you have to call your travel agent or Amtrak.

Try to Ride in Sleeper Cars

It’s easier said than done, since coach seats can be anywhere from $50 to $200, while sleeper cars can sometimes be $200 to $1,400. Still, if you’re able to swing the cost, try to ride in a sleeper car! For long distances, it’s infinitely more comfortable. You get your own bed — your own bathroom too, if you get a full bedroom — and the shared bathrooms are much cleaner than the ones in coach; plus, they have showers. There are also personal attendants to help you with any requests throughout your journey; just make sure you tip them.

The privacy of your own space, with a door you can lock, also goes a long way toward making you feel safer during days on a train. And it’s definitely a plus with Covid-19, particularly because you don’t have to wear your mask while you’re alone in your room, whereas in coach, you have to wear it your entire trip.

Food is also free in sleeper cars — breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I like to get French toast with berries and a side of bacon. For dinner, I like the lobster and crab cake, the Amtrak Signature Steak with a baked potato, and the carrot cake. While breakfast and dinner definitely surpass expectations, lunch is subpar, so I like to bring my own food for that meal.

Get a Lounge Pass

Lounge passes are a must, especially for those times when you have a layover before transferring trains, or if you’re just waiting at the station for departure. Not every Amtrak station has a lounge, though, so check before you go. But at the Chicago Union Station Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge , there is a children’s play area, free snacks, great Wi-Fi, lots of nice bathrooms, free luggage storage, TVs, and comfy leather couches. If you have a sleeper car, Business Class ticket, or if you’re a Guest Rewards Select Plus or Select Executive member, the lounge is free. For everyone else, it’s a $35 day pass. But the cost is totally worth it.

Ask for Help

One of the best things about Amtrak is the Red Cap service. They’re a group of Amtrak staff whom you can ask for help with baggage assistance if you need it, which comes in handy, especially when you arrive or are leaving the train station. But they also help disabled passengers, senior citizens, and large groups with their specific needs and questions, including transporting them across the station and to the train, as well as other forms of assistance. The Red Cap service is completely free — but you should tip them — and you can spot them by their red caps and shirts. If you don’t see a Red Cap staff member nearby, you can walk to the Red Cap station or to the Amtrak desk and ask for one, or you can call the Amtrak desk at the station you’re at and tell them where to meet you!

Bring Your Own Seat Covers and Bedding

With these seat covers from Nice Seats , it’s a relief to not have to touch the seat, and it also helps your skin not break out! Even if you have a sleeper car, getting two of these is ideal since your bed converts to a seat during the daytime.

The seat cover doubles as sheets if you’re riding coach, but in a sleeper car, you should also bring your own twin sheets. This Casper sateen set feels amazing, and these jersey sheets from Target are a great budget option. If you don’t feel like bringing sheets in addition to a blanket, then this sleeping bag from Nemo is a cozy and fun alternative, plus it compresses when packing.

Solid Jersey Sheet Set

Wear Comfortable Clothes, and Bring a Change of Clothes

Long-haul travel is always a bit frustrating, especially if you’re in coach. You don’t want to exacerbate that by wearing uncomfortable clothes or sitting in the same clothes the entire time. For daytime, these Lululemon leggings with pockets are ideal (they’re great for keeping extra masks and cash on hand), as are lots of easily removable layers on the train, like this stylish Aritzia cardigan with pockets . These joggers from Brooklinen are unbelievably comfortable too.

Take Care of Hygiene

If you’re in a sleeper car, you’ll have a shared shower — private if you bought a bedroom — that you can use. Bring your own soap, shampoo, lotion, etc. Don’t forget shower shoes and a towel! The train gives you towels, but I prefer to bring my own. My favorite is the Nomadix Original Towel because it’s quick-drying, lightweight, and super-absorbent. They also have hand towels for your body and face.

If taking a shower on the train isn’t your thing, don’t worry. Yuni Shower Sheets are lifesavers. They’ll actually make your entire body feel fresh and clean, and the rose and cucumber scent smells heavenly.

If you have a private bathroom, you’ll probably feel more comfortable brushing your teeth. In a shared bathroom, you might feel a bit weirder about it, even though it’s necessary. Bottled water is very handy when brushing your teeth in a shared bathroom, and don’t forget your Quip electric toothbrush , refillable floss pick , and travel bag. By avoiding using a shared sink with this routine, you’ll feel refreshed and clean, and will avoid touching potentially unsanitary surfaces.

Electric Toothbrush

Skincare is also really important as you travel. Breakouts can be unpredictable, but this solid routine may help you during your long train ride.

The first thing is to wash your face with micellar water and cotton pads. Makeup wipes are tempting but ultimately make breakouts worse. Then use your usual toner and moisturizer, and leave it there. It may seem simple, but fewer steps on the train, because it requires less touching of your face, means fewer zits. Acne dots work overnight — after or during your trip — to eliminate blemishes. Also, in true Naomi Campbell style , wash the entire seat — or room — in disinfectant wipes.

Another tip: Switch your masks out as often as you can, and use masks with a soft, non-chafing material. It’ll irritate your skin much less if you have clean, dry masks on for your entire trip.

Keep Active

Staying seated or lying down on a train for multiple days is bad for your health. Any time you stay seated that long, you run the risk of blood clots. So, it’s important to take advantage of Amtrak’s smoke breaks, where you can go outside for a few minutes. Also, you can walk to the observation car or to the café, or just explore the train. You can also try these airplane stretching exercises — they’ll work just the same

To reduce the risk of clots, try Bombas compression socks . They come in such fun patterns, and they have different levels of compression — one for everyday use, and another that’s a little tighter. Also, for every Bombas item you buy, the company donates one to a person experiencing homelessness.

Compression Sock 3-Pack

Bring Lots of Good Food

Unless you’re in a sleeping car with the Traditional Dining Menu, Amtrak’s food leaves a lot to be desired! And even with the dining car, lunch is always subpar. Also, the bottled water is extremely hit or miss. Sometimes it’s fine, and sometimes it tastes so bad, it’s undrinkable. So, you’re going to need to bring lots of snacks, drinks, and maybe even entire meals.

First, assess how much food you need. Remember that sleeper cars with the Traditional Dining Menu have a good breakfast and dinner. For an eight-hour ride, you might only need a water bottle and a sandwich. But for anything 16 hours or more in coach, you’re going to want to break out your cooler. Just remember that the train sells juice, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, soda, wine, and liquor, so you may not need to bring drinks!

For coolers, you can never go wrong with Yeti. I like the Roadie 24 Hard Cooler if I’m bringing multiple things. It’s compact and yet big enough to hold several containers of food. With enough ice packs — which are much less messy than actual loose ice — your food can stay cold for multiple days. If you’re bringing food for lots of people, try the Hopper M30 Soft Cooler — its soft material will make it easier to handle. And if you’re bringing only a couple items, the Daytrip Lunch Bag is an excellent option.

Daytrip Lunch Bag

Plastic bags work for containers, but I also like putting fruits, sandwiches, and deli meats in these W&P porter bags , which are aesthetically pleasing and reusable. The café car will have free napkins and utensils, so no need to buy those.

I love the Welly Traveler bottle , especially because of its infuser for tea or fruit. Bringing your own loose-leaf tea while you travel is such a luxury, and you can ask the café-car attendant for hot water, which tastes fine. But if you’re nervous about the water-bottle situation and want to bring lots of your own cold water, I’d get this 64-ounce Iron Flask bottle . It’s bulky, though, so make sure you have something to put it in so you’re not lugging it all over the place as you travel to and from the train station.

Also, get a good meal before you board! Lots of train stations have restaurants nearby, and you can get a wonderful meal before you might have to endure a few days of cold sandwiches.

Nylah Burton is a Chicago-based writer. Follow her on Twitter @ yumcoconutmilk .

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Article QuickTakes:

• Can you take long distance rideshares?
• Other rideshare options
• Costs to consider for rideshare long distance trips

Most rideshare trips tend to be just a few miles, or sometimes slightly longer trips to the airport. But what about even longer distance trips of 50 miles, 100 miles, or more? Can you take a rideshare long distance? The general answer is yes—but if you're thinking about a long distance trip as a driver or a passenger, you'll want to look at the costs.

Can You Take Long Distance Rideshares?

You can; popular rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft allow for long-distance trips. So do many car rental apps.

Lyft, for example, limits any ride outside the pickup coverage area to 100 miles. According to reports, Uber doesn't have a mileage limit but focuses on time, with an eight-hour drive limit. Some popular car rental apps allow hosts to set daily mileage limits for drivers.

As a rider ( and a driver ), these points are good to know, but you'll also want to figure out if the cost of a long distance rideshare is worth it compared to the costs of driving your own vehicle.

Other Ridesharing Options

While Uber and Lyft are the most popular rideshare tools, they aren't the only way to make a long-distance trip. Here are a few other options to explore:

• Getaround : Hosts can sign up to rent out their cars and connect with drivers through the app. Trips are limited to 200 miles per day. However, hosts may allow for multi-day trips
• Turo : Similar to Getaround, hosts rent their cars to guests and connect with drivers via the app. With Turo, hosts limit the daily mileage on their vehicles. Some may set it at 200 miles per day, while others may allow unlimited miles per trip
• ZipCar : ZipCar is a membership plan for riders, and the company owns its fleet of vehicles. Included in the cost of the membership plan, riders get 180 miles a day. There's a fee for every mile beyond that

Costs to Consider for Rideshare Long Distance

Ridesharing is a popular entry into the gig economy for many car owners, but there are costs (especially for long trips). Before taking rideshares over long distances, you may want to run through some of the costs as a driver and as a rider.

For drivers

You may look at the potential for a long distance trip and see a big payday, but the reality is there are some obvious and hidden costs you'll need to weigh, including:

• Gas : High gas prices can quickly eat into your profits, so figure out how much it will cost to get your passenger to their destination and get you back home
• Mileage : Think about the added mileage to your car and the potential costs. Providing long-distance rides could lead to an increase in your insurance premiums , since vehicles that drive more may face more risk
• Wear and tear : While this is harder to quantify, the more you drive your car over time, the more likely it becomes that it will begin to wear down. More miles can mean having to replace tires or needing maintenance on parts sooner
• App fees : You may have to pay a portion of your earnings for every ride as a fee to the company
• Ancillary costs : It's wise to budget for additional costs that may pop up, such as tolls and food. Depending on the length of your trip, you may want to include parking, hotel, and meal costs if you have to stay overnight

Track the income from trips compared to the cost of gas , maintenance, insurance, and other ancillary factors to see if it makes financial sense.

For passengers

Even if you have a car, you may not want to put miles on it for a long trip. However, there are still some costs to think about comparing before you decide, including:

• Ride fees : If you're planning on using a ridesharing app for a long distance ride, calculate the total cost in the app to get a good picture of your expenses. Also, keep in mind that you may have to pay toll fees
• Surge pricing : You could get hit with surge pricing, which can happen during periods of high demand, so you may want to lock in a reservation ahead of time
• Tips : Uber and other rideshare apps recommend a 15% tip for drivers, which usually isn't included in the app estimate tools, so factor that into the cost
• Food and rest stops : You may need to eat or use a rest stop during your trip, so plan for that and communicate it with your driver

A good rule before a long distance trip is to connect with the driver ahead of time. That way, you can both be on the same page about your plans.

The Bottom Line

Take the time to weigh the advantages and costs of a long-distance rideshare, both as a driver and a rider. Knowing the costs can help you make the right decision for your trip.

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6 Uber Alternatives for Long-Distance Trips

Uber is a great way to get where you need to go without having to drive your own car. However, Uber is a service, and like any other service, it has limitations. You can request an Uber for long-distance trips , but you should know the caveats. And consider some Uber alternatives.

A long Uber trip can be expensive, and few drivers will want to do it

Uber places some limits on how long a trip can take. The main thing that limits long-distance Uber trips is the company’s eight-hours policy. That means a trip can’t take longer than eight hours.

Uber’s main competitor , Lyft, also has limits, but Lyft’s limitations also vary from place to place. For example, in San Francisco, a Lyft user can’t be charged more than $400 for a single fare.

Because Uber doesn’t have a max fare like Lyft, a long-distance trip under eight hours can cost a lot.

For instance, in 2017, NFL player Shareece Wright missed a flight out of Chicago, so he took an Uber to Buffalo, New York. Some Uber drivers declined Wright’s request because they didn’t want to travel 500 miles across state lines. But one driver accepted the gig, and after the eight-hour trek, the fare came to $632.08. In addition, Wright tipped $300.

Wright is an NFL player, so he could afford a substantial Uber fare that likely cost more than his plane ticket. However, Compare recommends the average rideshare user consider the following Uber alternatives.

Unlike Uber or Lyft, OpenRide is a ridesharing service with few limits. All OpenRide does is connect drivers to passengers and process the payments between the two parties.

Unlike Uber or Lyft, OpenRide doesn’t set fares. Instead, the driver does, and the driver can charge what they want for a trip, with few limitations. As a result, if a passenger needs to go on a long-distance journey, they only need to find a driver willing to do that.

The main difference between Rdvouz and other ridesharing companies is that Rdvouz is more similar to hitchhiking than anything. If a rider wants to travel long-distance, Rdvouz will look at drivers in the vicinity and their intended destinations. Then a rider can match with a driver going in the same direction.

Rdvouz isn’t about making money either, but rather about making travel more accessible, Compare explains.

Ridesharing.com

As the name implies, Ridesharing.com is for ridesharing, but this service specializes in longer-distance trips. It’s free to book trips under 46 miles, according to Compare. However, longer trips will have a booking fee. 

Other Lyft and Uber alternatives are car-sharing services such as Zipcar . There’s no max distance for this service. However, Zipcar will add a surcharge if you travel more than 180 miles in 24 hours.

Like Zipcar, Car2Go is another car-sharing service. However, it has stricter limits. Users are allowed to travel only 200 miles outside of their home area, Compare reports. And if a user drives more than 150 miles, they’ll get hit with a surcharge.

Unlike other Uber alternatives, Zimride is a more exclusive car-sharing network. Users must be part of a corporate or university network to use Zimride.

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6 Great Options for Cheap Bus Travel in the U.S.

Buses Are an Excellent Option for Student Travelers

If you're looking for a cheap method of transportation to make your way across the United States, you can't go wrong with a bus. Sure, they might be slow and they may not have the best reputation, but when it comes to saving money, they've got you covered. 

Greyhound buses have been a staple of U.S. travel for decades, but these days, you have plenty of other alternatives for your journey. Plus, many of the buses in the United States have gone through an impressive upgrade in recent years. Now, it's not uncommon to be offered free snacks and a bottle of water while you connect to the bus' Wi-Fi and use the power socket next to your seat.

In this article, I take a look at every option you have for bus travel in the country, weighing up the pros and cons of each company so that you can figure out which one will be best for your trip. 

I've used  BoltBus  several times in the United States and been very happy with my experience every time. They're incredibly affordable if you manage to time your purchase well (you can grab a $1 fare if you book your journey months in advance), but still far more comfortable than Greyhound buses. On a Boltbus, the seats are comfortable, you have a lot of legroom, you have access to power sockets to charge your devices, and you'll even be able to connect to their free Wi-Fi. 

Read more: 7 Ways to Get Cheaper BoltBus Tickets

Chinatown Buses

Chinatown buses have been around for over 20 years now, and they serve the East Coast and Southern California to San Francisco (and do a leg to Las Vegas, too). With curbside stops and not a lot of amenities, they're a super-inexpensive option for when your budget is tight. If you need to save money and you'll be traveling one of their routes, they'll most likely be cheapest. Be aware that Chinatown Buses have had some issues with safety in the past, but have upped their game recently, and shouldn't be a problem to travel with.

Greyhound Buses

Greyhound buses still rule the road in the U.S., with far more routes and potential flexibility for you than any of the cheap buses. And you can make your journey cheaper still if you apply a  student discount . Greyhound buses are basic and don't have many of the fancy features of BoltBus and MegaBus, but they're safe and they'll get you where you need to go. For any kind of obscure routes or for crossing the center of the country, look at Greyhound for prices. 

Lux Bus America

If you love overland travel, will be traveling in Southern California, and don't mind splurging for higher levels of comfort, Lux Bus America is designed for you. Of particular note is the Los Angeles to Las Vegas route, where you'll find incredibly comfortable seats, free drinks and snacks, pillows and blankets, and seatback entertainment. It's the priciest option out of everything mentioned here, but still cheaper than booking a flight. 

Megabus is fairly similar to BoltBus. If you get in early enough, $1 tickets are available, but like BoltBus, if you leave it until the last minute, you could be paying $30 for the exact same ride. While there isn't too much difference in terms of comfort and price with BoltBus, I have found BoltBus buses to be slightly cleaner and more comfortable. 

You may have noticed that the small bus companies in the United States tend to focus on the west coast or northern east coast regions of the country. If you'll be hitting up the southern east coast, RedCoach has you covered. With a route that covers the major cities and attractions in Florida, it's worth checking their prices before you book with anyone else. RedCoach has affordable prices and are slightly more luxurious than BoltBus, MegaBus, and Greyhound. 

This article was edited and updated by Lauren Juliff . 

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10 Best and Cheapest Ways to Travel Long Distances in the USA (for $20 a Day)

Looking for the best and cheapest ways to travel long distances in the USA? Look no further! Here are some tips to help you save money on transportation, accommodation, and activities so you can see the country without breaking the bank.

Traveling across the vast expanse of the United States is a dream for many, but the expenses associated with long-distance travel often deter exploration. However, it’s possible to journey through the country without breaking the bank account. With careful planning and savvy strategies, exploring the USA on a budget of $20 a day is achievable. This article outlines the best and most cost-effective ways to cross-country while keeping your expenses to a minimum. Here is the

Table of Contents

10 Best and Cheapest Ways to Travel Long Distances in the USA

Exploring via Bus Networks

One of the most economical ways to travel long distances in the United States is to use the extensive bus network. Companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and Boltbus offer affordable fares, especially if you book tickets in advance. With fares often under $1, it’s a budget-friendly option for covering considerable distances.

Ride-Sharing Platforms: Cost-Effective Travel

Apps such as BlaBlaCar and Craigslist’s rideshare sections make it a breeze to share rides with others going your way. Connecting with people traveling in the same direction, these platforms let you split fuel costs, which can seriously slash your overall expenses. It’s like having a bunch of travel pals, making your journey lighter on the wallet and more enjoyable. By opting for these services, you’re not just saving money but also embracing a budget-friendly and eco-conscious alternative to traditional transportation methods. So hop on, save some cash, and enjoy the company while cruising to your destination!

Train Travel with Amtrak: Scenic and Affordable

Amtrak is the national passenger rail service in the USA. It operates a network of over 22,000 miles of track, connecting over 500 cities and towns across the country.

Train fares can be more expensive than bus fares, but they’re still relatively affordable. And Amtrak often offers discounts for students, seniors, and military members. Amtrak’s multi-ride passes offer fantastic value, allowing multiple stops within a specific time frame at a reasonable cost.

Budget Airlines for Long Distances: Low-Cost Flights

While budget airlines are typically associated with short-haul flights, carriers like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier also offer competitive rates for long-haul flights. Booking in advance and remaining flexible with travel dates can secure cross-country flights at budget-friendly prices.

Hitchhiking: An Adventure in Itself

Hitchhiking continues to be an adventurous and cost-effective way to journey across the US. Staying cautious and prioritizing safety is key, but numerous travelers have triumphantly explored the country’s vast landscapes by catching rides from kind and generous drivers.

While it’s crucial to be vigilant and mindful of safety measures, hitchhiking opens up a world of thrilling adventures, enabling travelers to traverse the expansive beauty of the US without breaking the bank account. It’s not just about the free rides; it’s the connections made, the stories shared, and the unique experiences encountered along the way. By embracing this mode of travel, many adventurers have unlocked a more personal and exciting way to discover the breathtaking diversity of America’s landscapes.

Bicycle Touring: Thrifty and Adventurous

Carpooling apps: cost division for shared rides.

Services such as UberPOOL and Lyft Line provide affordable travel, especially within cities and nearby areas. Sharing rides with fellow passengers going in the same direction divides the expenses, creating a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Using these apps isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing so in a way that’s lighter on your wallet. By connecting with others headed in a similar direction, you not only save money but also contribute to reducing traffic and the environmental impact. It’s a smart way to navigate urban areas without splurging, while also meeting new people and making your travel experience more communal and wallet-friendly.

Budget Accommodations and Camping: Wallet-Friendly Stays

Opting for budget-friendly stays, like hostels, guesthouses, or camping, drastically cuts down on expenses. Platforms such as Hostel world and Couchsurfing present affordable or even free accommodation choices, making it entirely possible for budget-minded travelers to explore without emptying their wallets.

Selecting these economical accommodation options isn’t just about saving money; it’s about unlocking more opportunities to experience a place and its culture. It’s a chance to meet new people, share stories, and gain local insights, creating a richer and more immersive travel experience. These platforms not only offer a bed but also a doorway to a community, enabling travelers to stretch their budgets while diving deeper into the heart of their destinations.

Embracing Slow Travel: Discovering More for Less

Choosing slower travel methods, like walking, hiking, or sailing, offers a more immersive and cost-effective way to explore the US . While it may take more time, the experiences garnered are often more profound and satisfying.

Embracing these leisurely modes of travel isn’t just about getting from one place to another; it’s about the journey itself. Walking through neighborhoods, hiking trails, or sailing along the coastlines provides a unique perspective, allowing travelers to absorb the essence of each location. It’s a chance to connect more deeply with the environment, meet locals, and savor the small details often missed in faster modes of travel, resulting in a more enriching and budget-friendly adventure.

Frequent Flyer Miles and Rewards: Smart Savings

Using frequent flyer programs and credit card rewards can significantly slash travel expenses. Making strategic use of accumulated miles and rewards can transform long-distance travel within the US into a remarkably affordable venture.

By maximizing these loyalty programs and credit card perks, travelers can unlock a treasure trove of savings, turning dream trips into budget-friendly realities. Whether it’s through accruing miles from everyday purchases or taking advantage of promotional offers, these rewards can be the key to making those cross-country journeys or domestic flights not just accessible but also surprisingly economical. With a bit of savvy planning and leveraging these rewards, exploring the far corners of the country becomes more financially feasible, making travel aspirations more attainable for everyone.

Embarking on a journey across the USA with a daily budget of $20 is a challenging yet achievable feat. By exploring various transportation methods, embracing slower travel, and strategically choosing accommodations, anyone can embark on an affordable long-distance journey. Flexibility, thorough planning, and a spirit of adventure are key ingredients in making this budget-friendly travel dream a reality.

In summary, exploring the vast landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse cultures of the United States need not be a luxury reserved for the few. These ten cost-effective methods of travel open up the country to all adventure seekers, proving that a limited budget is no obstacle to fulfilling your travel aspirations.

NOTE;- Kindly note that the prices and availability of transportation methods may vary, so it’s recommended to verify current rates and conditions when planning your travels.

Is it truly possible to travel in the USA for $20 a day?

Yes, it’s possible, but it requires careful planning and selecting the most economical travel methods. While $20 a day might be challenging, various affordable transportation options and budget-friendly accommodations make it feasible.

How can I find the cheapest transportation in the US?

Research and flexibility are key. Utilize bus networks, ride-sharing platforms, train passes, budget airlines, hitchhiking, carpooling apps, and even bicycle touring to find the most cost-effective transportation based on your route and preferences.

What are the best strategies for finding budget accommodations in the US?

Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or campgrounds, and utilize websites like Hostelworld, Couchsurfing, or Airbnb for affordable or free accommodation options. Planning in advance and considering unconventional lodging options can significantly reduce costs.

any hidden costs or additional fees while using budget transportation options?

Some budget transportation modes might have additional fees, especially for luggage or specific services. Always read the terms and conditions carefully and be aware of any extra costs associated with the chosen mode of travel.

What are some essential tips for traveling on a tight budget in the US?

Plan your itinerary in advance, be flexible with travel dates, pack light to avoid extra baggage fees, consider cooking your meals to cut down on food costs, and be open to exploring slower modes of travel to save money.

How can I maintain a budget while traveling across the US without sacrificing safety and comfort?

Balance is key. Research affordable yet reputable options for transportation and accommodations. Ensure your safety, stay aware of your surroundings, and consider using a mix of budget-friendly options to maintain comfort without overspending.

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Long-Distance Travel

UVM offers free shuttles ( see schedule ) to help you get to and from Burlington International Airport, Amtrak (Essex Junction) and Burlington Transit Center during breaks.  If you are traveling during non-break times, the local Green Mountain Transit buses provide students free trips to the transportation hubs. The  # 11 Line will take you to the Burlington International Airport  and the Essex Junction # 2 Line will take you to Essex Junction Amtrak Station (the Vermonter). From campus you can catch the  #1, #2, and #8 Lines (towards Burlington) to the Downtown Transit Center. You can take the #1, #8, or #11 to the Burlington Amtrak Station (the Ethan Allen). Both the Downtown Transit Center and the Burlington Amtrak station are within a 30 minute walk from campus. The airport is about a 45 minute wal k from campus. 

These resources are provided for informational purposes only. Please read all disclosures as you use these services at your own risk.

• Students have many transportation options to get them to and from home. 
• See links below to help you get started to where you want to go.

A map showing Long Distance Travel Providers and their routes to and from Burlington, VT. Remember, UVM runs shuttles to connect you to long distance transit providers before and after school breaks. 

By Carpool: This NEW student  ride share platform built on Teams provides UVM students with a way to connect and find rides home for breaks. Thanksgiving is approaching, and carpooling with friends or classmates can be an efficient, flexible, and likely cheaper way to travel. Carpooling may help Passengers avoid expensive flights- if you live too far away to drive, consider carpooling to a larger airport and getting a non-stop home. This is a closed platform and you must have a student ID to log-in. 

By Rail: Amtrak Vermonter and Ethan Allen Lines

Essex Junction Station (29 Railroad Avenue, Essex Junction VT): The Vermonter offers service to Springfield, Hartford, New Haven, NYC, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington DC. The station is accessible by GMT bus route #2 Essex . UVM uses CATS buses as free student shuttles to the station during academic breaks- see schedule .

Burlington Station (1 Main Street, Burlington, VT): Ethan Allen Express offers service to New York City through Rutland and Albany. The station is under 1.5 miles from UVM and is accessible by GMT bus.  

Learn More: Amtrak

By Air: Burlington International Airport

You can reach the airport by taking the Green Mountain Transit bus #11 from campus. This bus service is free to all UVMers. During breaks UVM will provide shuttle service to the airport. Check our shuttle page for the latest schedules . 

Learn More: Burlington Intl. Airport

Coach Bus: Vermont Translines

Vermont Translines, through the Vermont Agency of Transportation, provides transportation originating in Burlington, VT, that travels the Route 7 corridor to the Albany, NY, bus terminal, Amtrak station and Albany airport, with stops along the way in Middlebury, Brandon, Rutland, Manchester and Bennington.

Vermont Translines runs buses daily, 7 days a week. Arrivals and departures are near the Downtown Transit Center, on Pearl Street in front of the John J. Zampieri State Offices . The Green Mountain Transit #1 and #2 Lines (towards Burlington) will take you to the Downtown Transit Center. During breaks UVM will provide shuttle service to the Downtown Transit Center.   Check our shuttle page for the latest schedules

Learn More: Vermont Translines

Coach Bus: Breakliner Bus by CoTo Travel

College break bus services for UVM students to and from:

• Connecticut (Hartford & Bridgeport)
• White Plains, NY
• New Jersey (Montvale, Woodbridge, Robbinsville)
• King of Prussia, PA
• Metro Boston area (Tyngsborough, Newton & Logan Airport).

Learn More: Breakliner Bus

Coach Bus: Greyhound (Service to Boston, Montreal, New York, Manchester, White River Junction, Albany, Concord, Middlebury and beyond)

Arrivals and departures are at the Downtown Transit Center. The  Green Mountain Transit #1 and #2 Lines  (towards Burlington) will take you to the Downtown Transit Center. During breaks UVM will provide shuttle service to the Downtown Transit Center.   Check our shuttle page for the latest schedules

Learn More: Greyhound

Coach Bus: Megabus/DATTCO  (Direct service to Boston and Montpelier) 

Note: This bus generally only operates routes on Fridays and Sundays. Look out for a bus that says MegaBus or DATTCO.

Arrivals and departures are near the Downtown Transit Center, on Pearl Street in front of the John J. Zampieri State Offices . Please confirm pick-up/drop-off locations with Megabus. The Green Mountain Transit #1 and #2 Lines (towards Burlington) will take you to the Downtown Transit Center. During breaks UVM will provide shuttle service to the Downtown Transit Center.   Check our shuttle page for the latest schedules

Learn More: Megabus

By Water: Lake Champlain Transportation Company currently offers three ferry crossings:

• Grand Isle, VT-- Plattsburgh, NY 
• Burlington, VT-- Port Kent, NY
• Charlotte, VT--Essex, NY.

Learn More: Lake Champlain Ferries

Academic Break Travel Tips

1 CARPOOL Riding home with a friend is a cost-effective option. Consider sharing the cost of gas. Even if you can’t carpool all the way home, you could arrange to be dropped off at a bus, train, plane, or wherever your parents pick you up. Check out the Student Ride Board and find someone to carpool with today. 

2 BOOK EARLY Buses, trains, and planes can fill up especially fast during break times. Be sure to secure your seat and the price ahead of time.

3 BE FLEXIBLE Not looking forward to layovers on your way home? See if you can ride with someone to Boston or New York where there might be more direct flights.

4 ALTERNATIVES TO RIDESHARE Rideshare services are limited in Burlington, something prices can reflect. Students can ride GMT bus trips to Essex Jct Amtrak, Burlington Amtrak station, Downtown Transit Center, and BTV airport (see recommended routes at the top of this page). Campus CATS buses also run to both Amtrak stations, the downtown transit center, and BTV airport during academic breaks. Burlington Amtrak and Downtown Transit Center are walkable within 30 min and accessible by GMT bus.

SUSTAINABILITY - Every flight and Single-Occupancy-Vehicle trip not taken helps keep our carbon emissions low. When people choose efficient transportation alternatives, that helps ensure a future with plentiful climate-friendly travel options.

Tuk-Tuks are for Tourists: Secrets for Getting Around Thailand

Exploring Thailand is relatively easy, but its easy to get overwhelmed by the numbers of options when it comes to getting around.

Depending on where you are in Thailand, you may choose a unique and traditional mode of transportation, like ride-shares, taxis or local buses, as well as songthaews.

In big cities like Bangkok , you will find the chaotic driving overwhelming, so you may decide the metro or BTS sky train to be a safer and less stressful option.

Needless to say, there are many options of public transport when getting around Thailand. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to each transportation option and when you would use them.

Meter Taxis & Ride-Share Apps

Metro or bts, long-distance bus, night train, internal flights, long tail boats, learn to love slow, unpredictable transit, more helpful posts on thailand, how to get around in thailand.

Whether you’re looking for an adventurous mode of transport or you want something simple, these are the best ways to get around Thailand…

When my partner, Brent, and I first arrived in Thailand , it seemed like we were having nothing but bad luck when it came to taking tuk-tuks.

The drivers were constantly trying to charge us outrageous prices, leading us off on unwanted detours, and attempting to short-change us at the end of the ride.

Brent was filling one of our Thai co-workers in on the latest of our disaster stories, and the explanation for our woes seemed quite simple to her: “Because tuk-tuks are for tourists.”

Once she pointed this out, it seemed obvious: I never see Thai people riding around in tuk-tuks.

Tuk-tuks can be fun, but as a means for travel, they are not the best option. Not only are they expensive but they can be a bit of a scam in terms of what you get for the price.

In my experience, most businesses in Thailand will unabashedly charge foreigners more than they charge locals.

Therefore, chances are, if you’re traveling like a foreign tourist, you’re probably getting charged like one too. If you want to get around Thailand on a budget , you need to learn how to travel like a Thai person, not a tourist.

Unless you want to ride in a tuk tuk for the ride itself, we don’t recommend it.

Almost everyone owns motorbikes or a scooter in Thailand. It’s therefore no surprise that, by far, the cheapest and easiest way to get around in any Thai city is to rent your own scooter or motorcycle.

For about $5 per day, a scooter rental gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want. That said, not everyone is comfortable on a scooter, and traffic in some cities isn’t suited to newbies.

For those who don’t want to rent their own, scooter taxis are a good alternative which you can order on Grab or Bolt. Scooter taxis are easily recognizable because the drivers typically wear a brightly coloured vest.

They are as quick as tuk-tuks, but in my experience, the drivers are less likely to overcharge. In fact, in smaller towns the drivers often charge a low flat rate to travel anywhere within the city.

Fair warning, many scooter rentals ask for your passport as a deposit or a large fee in cash. Always choose the cash!

You technically need an international driver’s license to rent a scooter in Thailand, but as long as you have a driver’s license you should be fine. And there are police check points, so if you have no license don’t risk it.

These look like open pick-ups trucks with parallel benches in the back. They run within cities like a local bus, or on short routes between nearby cities.

There’s no official “stop” for songthaews, so you just stand by the side of the road and flag one down as it passes. They’re usually quite colourful, and full of people, making it easy to see them coming up the street. Hop inside the back, and then pay the driver when you get off.

Typically, you’ll be charged a set fare to ride to anywhere along the songthaew’s route.

If you’re carrying a lot of baggage, scooters and songthaews may not be practical options. In this case, I recommend meter taxis, or yellow taxis, over tuk-tuks.

If you ask the driver to run the meter for your trip, you almost always end up paying less than if you try to haggle over a fare with a tuk-tuk driver.

Nowadays, it’s easier and more cost effective to use ride-share apps such as Grab and Bolt, which are the Asian versions of Uber.

You can also order yellow taxis on these apps, but the good thing is the price is agreed beforehand and you can pay through the app, so no need to worry about counting your cash to make sure you have enough money.

When in Bangkok, it can be overwhelming navigating its bustling streets, though this becomes a breeze with the efficient and convenient Metro and BTS systems.

The Metro, known as the MRT, covers major areas like Sukhumvit, Silom, and Chatuchak Market, whisking you away to popular shopping destinations and cultural landmarks.

The BTS Skytrain stretches across both elevated and underground tracks, offering stunning views of the city skyline while effortlessly taking you to places like Siam Paragon, Terminal 21, and Chao Phraya River.

With air-conditioned carriages and frequent train arrivals, the Metro and BTS are a comfortable and reliable way to explore Bangkok .

Traveling long distances by bus in Thailand is not only affordable but also a convenient way to explore the country.

Thailand has an extensive bus network, which allows you to reach practically anywhere in Thailand by bus.

Despite its previous poor reputation, bus travel in Thailand has undergone significant improvements, offering more comfort and reliability.

VIP buses are especially popular for long-haul journeys, providing a comfortable and sometimes even luxurious experience with WiFi, free bottles of water and snacks.

You can get from Bangkok to popular destinations like Krabi or Phuket, buses offer budget-friendly options for travelers.

Taking a night train in Thailand is a memorable experience. The most popular route is between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and is yet another affordable way to travel.

These sleeper trains provide comfortable accommodations, allowing passengers to rest in cozy berths during the journey. If you want to travel super budget, you can opt for a third-class seat which is a seat rather than a bunk.

But even first-class tickets are cheap.

Whether you choose a lower or upper berth, the night train promises an adventure filled with comfort, convenience, and breathtaking scenery.

Taking domestic flights in Thailand is another convenient and efficient way to get from A to B. With several budget airlines offering domestic flights, including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, and Thai Air Asia, travelers have plenty of options to choose from.

These airlines operate from major airport hubs like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket , Krabi, and Koh Samui, ensuring easy connectivity to popular destinations.

Internal flights in Thailand are known for their affordability, making it a cost-effective option for travelers, but you do need to book in advance to get a good deal.

Taking longtail boats is a unique and authentic way to explore the country’s stunning waterways and coastal areas.

Longtail boats, also known as reua hang yao, are traditional wooden boats with long propeller shafts, making them distinctively Thai.

They are not only used for touristy rides but also serve as ferries, cargo boats, and transportation between islands.

Whether you’re island hopping, getting from Ao Nang to Railay Beach, exploring the Bangkok klongs (canals), or simply enjoying a leisurely cruise along the Andaman Sea, longtail boats provide a charming and immersive experience.

You can also do border crossings between Thailand and Laos on a long tail boat, which is a unique experience.

Ferries are one of the best ways to get to the islands in Thailand. With numerous ferry routes connecting places like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi Islands, Phuket, and Krabi, travelers have plenty of options to choose from.

Ferry travel in Thailand is generally considered safe, though it can be slow.

Various ferry companies, such as Lomprayah, Raja Ferry Port, and Seatran Ferry, operate reliable services.

Tickets can be easily booked through platforms like 12Go.asia or from the ticket counters at the port.

Tips for Navigating Public Transport in Thailand

To make sure you are able to get around Thailand with ease, here are some words of advice…

It doesn’t take a lot of effort to learn how to say “hello”, “thank you”, and “how are you?” in Thai, but it makes a world of difference in how you’re treated. (“Sawadee,” “Kop Kuhn,” “Sabadee mai?”- respectively)

If you show your driver that you speak a little Thai, you will seem less like a wide-eyed tourist who just got off the plane, ready to fall for anything. Trying to make some taxi conversation helps the driver see you as a person, rather than just another dumb foreigner.

The use of a few polite phrases in Thai almost always leads to a better price and a shorter route. For example, once during a meter taxi ride, our driver suggested that he take us to the nearest metro stop, because the rush hour traffic was going to make the ride to our destination unusually expensive.

He could easily have kept driving and not warned us, leaving us to pay the inflated fare. I can’t be sure, but I think he gave us a break because he was charmed by our broken attempts at Thai. A little Thai also goes a long way towards getting a warmer reception and more assistance at bus and train stations.

I’ve had to get used to the fact that it’s very difficult to make plans around transport between cities and provinces in Thailand. It’s not always possible to find bus and train timetables online, let alone book a seat in advance. Trains and buses are frequently very late, slow, and crowded.

Buying a ticket doesn’t mean that you won’t end up squatting in the aisle because all of the seats are taken. Getting around in Thailand became a lot easier for me once I stopped worrying about when I was going to get to my destination.

The craziness of the transport system becomes more manageable when you view it as an adventure, rather than a hassle. There’s something strangely magical about a long, slow ride on the rickety Thai railway, with the windows open to combat the sweaty heat, listening to the vendors calling out for passengers to buy food as they walk up and down the aisles.

When you stop taking transport seriously, you can start to enjoy the journey and have some fun figuring out the best ways to get around Thailand.

• Guide to Planning a Trip to Thailand with Kids
• 3-Day Bangok Itinerary: The Best of Bangkok In 2023
• The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary for 2023
• 23 Helpful Tips for Traveling to Thailand with Kids

BIO : Jessica has been working/volunteering her way through Europe and Southeast Asia with her partner, Brent, since September 2011. The projects are varied: from gardening at a retreat center in Germany to teaching ESL in Thailand. Check out Ways of Wanderers  for her latest stories and travel advice.

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