Introduction:

As a traveler, it is crucial to get enough rest and recovery time, and there will be moments when you will have to learn how to get some of that sleep on the go. Taking an overnight train, for example, not only allows you to rest while you travel but also saves you money because you will not have to book a hotel for the night.

However, it is not always easy to get comfortable during every train journey. Sometimes there will be crying kids, train changes, and bright lights that all seem to be working together to keep you from getting the zzzz’s you need. As someone who has traveled extensively throughout Europe by train, I want to share my top tips and tricks for mastering the art of train sleeping.

Tip #1: Choose Your Train Adventure Wisely

The first step to ensuring a full night of rest is selecting the right journey. Overnight sleeper trains are designed to provide a balance between travel and comfort. When selecting your journey a key tip is to look for journeys with minimal train changes so that your sleep can go uninterrupted. I highly recommend the websites thetrainline.com and rome2rio.com for planning your journey because they offer information about trip duration, price, and which lines offer extra comfort options like WiFi and train cabins.

Tip #2: Know Your Seat of Choice

Are you a traveler who prefers the aisle, middle, or window seat? Or maybe you do not want a seat at all and you prefer to book a berth (another name for a bed). I personally prefer the window seat because I find it relaxing to watch the views go by. Another perk is that the window is a perfect place to rest your head if your neck pillow alone isn’t enough. However, if you are someone who needs access to the bathroom or other train amenities more frequently, I would recommend an aisle so you do not have to ask those next to you to move every time you need to get up. As far as the middle seat, I have never met a single traveling soul who prefers it, but if that is what you are into then the benefit is that often these seats are the cheapest and most readily available.

Tip #3: Layers, Layers, Layers

Depending on where in the world you are training from and to, it is common to experience temperature fluctuations. Even during warm, humid days, I find myself freezing the second I get on a train. Although some trains do have air controls, it is more common than not to experience drafts around doors and windows. Packing a travel blanket, wearing an extra t-shirt, or keeping a jacket close by can help protect you from catching a cold and make your journey more comfortable.

Tip #4: Ditch the Sleep Mask and Use Sunglasses Instead

When traveling solo, especially as a female, it is best to remain aware of your surroundings. Having an eye mask on might be a good way to keep out the light but it also announces your inability to see to everyone else around you. This can be dangerous and make you a prime target for pickpocketing. Although sunglasses don’t keep all the light out, a dark-tinted pair will offer a good amount of shade. When you wear sunglasses, not everyone can always tell whether or not you are asleep or simply just enjoying the ride. Additionally, if you need to wake up and be on alert, you can easily observe your surroundings without needing to take off a sleep mask first.

Tip #5: Avoid Noise-Canceling Headphones When Traveling Solo

Although it may seem tempting to want to cancel out all of the noise, not being able to hear anything can be a safety risk, especially for those traveling solo. If there is an emergency or situation where you need to wake up and be on alert, it is much more difficult to take action when you cannot hear what is going on around you. Additionally, many trains have speaker announcements for updates on stops or schedule changes. You want to opt for a headphone option that suppresses the noise but also allows you to remain aware of your surroundings.

Tip #6: Set an Alarm

Relying on yourself to listen to train announcements for your stop as you are going in and out of sleep is never a good idea. If your train journey has multiple stops, then I recommend setting an alarm 15-20 minutes prior to your estimated arrival time. The extra 20 minutes is perfect because it provides just enough time to gather your belongings, wake up, and check if there were any journey changes (i.e. delays or new early arrival times).

Tip #7: Continue Your Regular Night Routine in the Best Way You Can

Keep a small bag that is easy to access and carry full of your favorite night routine items. These can include essential oils, a book, necessary toiletries, contact solution, glasses (just to name a few). In the bag I would also recommend bringing baby wipes and disinfectant wipes. Trains, especially their bathrooms, can get very dirty. Having these supplies on hand can minimize that gross sweaty traveler feeling (if you know, then you know) until you can make it to your next shower.

Tip #8: Secure Your Belongings

Although it is uncommon in my experience, there have been stories of train-sleepers being prime targets for pickpocketing and theft. Rather than laying your belongings on a table, I found that keeping items in an inside jacket pocket, a neck wallet, under your arm, or even under your legs as you sleep is best when you are not traveling with anything too valuable. If you must travel with something valuable, keep it secured in a bag or suitcase with a small lock and where you can keep an eye on it. Just being mindful of what you have and checking on it as often as you need can go a long way.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey Within the Journey

Train sleeping is a difficult but necessary experience for every traveler. Make the most of it by setting yourself up for success and planning ahead. The more you travel, the more you will figure out which system works best for you. While on the journey, don’t forget to sit back, relax, take the time to enjoy the views, and have fun!

Always Learning,

Jaiden G

08/29/23