4 TIPS ON TAKING A LONG-HAUL TRAIN TRIP

As the country braces for an uptick in new coronavirus cases, Americans may be searching for alternative travel options. For those who feel wary of the return of crowded flights, train travel may be an attractive substitute.

Like the rest of the travel industry, Amtrak made adjustments to its operations as the pandemic erupted. In addition to increasing its cleaning procedures, America’s railroad service is limiting passenger bookings on its trains to promote physical distancing.

Adrian Hyzler, chief medical officer for Healix International, a company that specializes in security, international medical and travel-assistance services, says that there are advantages and disadvantages to traveling by train.

Both options require passing through potentially crowded areas, whether that’s a TSA checkpoint or a train terminal. A flight may get you to your destination faster than a train trip, but crowding on a plane may be harder to avoid.

“I do think that the pros and cons balance each other out,” Hyzler said.

Here are some tips to keep in mind for a healthconscious and happy journey.

1. If your budget allows, book a private room.

Traveling by Amtrak’s Roomette, Bedroom, Bedroom Suite, Family Bedroom or Accessible Bedroom will provide you with the most physical distance from other travelers.

“You close the door and you have the choice of never having to interact with someone, except when the conductor comes by once and lifts your ticket,”said Roger Harris, executive vice president and revenue officer at Amtrak.

2. Follow standard coronavirus precautions.

Once you’re on board, follow the same coronavirus safety measures you would in other parts of your life. That means practicing good hand hygiene, choosing a seat away from other passengers, and wearing a mask throughout the trip, which is mandatory.

“You must wear a mask in the station, on the boarding platform, you must wear it during boarding, you must when you’re seated,” Harris said.

3. Pack your own food.

Road-trip snacks work well on trains, but for long-haul trips you’ll likely need to pack more substantial food.

Harris says that while most trains have food service, dining options have changed in response to the coronavirus.

“On the Northeast Corridor, for instance, almost all the trains have cafe service again,”he said.“But we are closing all the table seats from a health point of view.”

4. Bring the right sleep essentials.

Amtrak coach seats offer way more leg room than a seat on an economy flight would, and the seats recline more (without offending the person behind you as much).

If you can’t book a private room, pack a pillow, blanket, eye mask and ear plugs to make the most out of your sleeping arrangement.