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Is Train Travel Right For You?

  • Raquel Gilbreath
  • Mar 31
  • 4 min read

Train travels along a lush, green coastal track with blue sea background. Text reads "Is Train Travel Right For You?" Logo in top left corner.

Traveling by train is regaining popularity and going viral on various social media platforms. This leads many to ask themselves, “is train travel right for me?” While not everyone will enjoy a train ride, here are some things to consider to see if it is something you may enjoy. Even if train travel is not going to replace your flight or drive, there are luxury trains that take you through scenic views, similar to a cruise, with set destinations where you can get off and explore.

Red train crosses a snowy viaduct amidst snow-covered mountains and trees, under a pale sky, creating a serene winter scene.


1.    Budget


Train travel is generally more affordable than flying, especially if you are traveling outside of the United States. This makes it a great way to travel around Europe and other continents that have an expansive rail system. Within the United States, traveling by train is generally the same cost as flights, however there are often sales that can make it more affordable. Depending on the company and what tier ticket you book, your food may be included in the cost of your ticket.

 


Passengers sit and chat in a train car with large windows. A server in a vest carries a tray. The mood is relaxed and sociable.

2.    Comfort


Seats on trains are wider than those on airplanes, even in economy. There also tends to be more leg room between the seats and has leg rests, which is great for those of us with long legs or those who like to stretch out some. On a train, you can also walk between the different cars, so you are less likely to feel claustrophobic. Most trains have air conditioning in all of the cars. If you’d like more privacy, you can always book a private bedroom with or without a private restroom.



 

3.    Slow Travel


Red train crosses stone viaduct in lush forested mountains. Bright and serene setting with vibrant greenery. "Glacier Express" text visible.

If you are the type to enjoy the journey just as much as the destination, train travel is something you will love! There are wide windows that you can sit in front of while reading or just enjoying the views. Trains often travel through mountains, fields, and other scenic places, which makes the trip interesting and enjoyable. Those who prefer to live life slowly will appreciate that trains seem to take their time.

 

4.    Eco-friendly

Historic castle and buildings with red roofs at sunset, reflected in a calm river. Dramatic clouds create a serene, picturesque scene.

Trains use less energy and produce less pollutants per person than cars or planes. Planes are not very eco-friendly because they use over double the amount of energy as trains do. Cars do not fit as many people as trains, which makes the carbon footprint higher per person. For these reasons, people often find train travel to have less of a negative impact on the environment than other forms of travel.

 

5.    Go with the flow


Train traveling through grassy hills with mountains in background, under a blue sky. The train is silver and red, curving along the track.

Trains are more likely to be impacted by weather than planes, which can cause unexpected delays. Traveling by train will not be a good fit if you have set plans at your destination. If you book a train ticket, be open to slight changes in arrival time and stops along the way. If you are the type to go with the flow and arrive somewhere with loose plans on what you want to do or see, train travel would be a good option.

 

6. Spectacular Destinations Only Seen by Train


A serene waterfall flows over mossy rocks into a clear pond, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage and trees in a tranquil forest setting.

One of the greatest joys of train travel is the opportunity to witness breathtaking landscapes that are inaccessible by car or plane. Winding through mountain ranges, crossing vast deserts, and hugging dramatic coastlines, trains take you through scenery that feels untouched by time. Imagine gliding past the towering peaks of the Swiss Alps, winding through the lush Canadian Rockies, or crossing the Australian Outback under a sky ablaze with stars. Some routes, like the Glacier Express in Switzerland or the Rocky Mountaineer in North America, feel like moving postcards, offering ever-changing panoramic views you simply can’t experience any other way. Train travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about immersing yourself in the journey itself.


7. The Unique Experience of Train Travel


Neoclassical building with dome, cherry blossoms, and trees reflecting in water. People walking nearby. Pink sky at sunset, serene mood.

Beyond the practical benefits, train travel offers a sense of nostalgia and romance that few other modes of transportation can match. Whether it’s the rhythmic clatter of the tracks, the charm of a historic rail car, or the camaraderie found in a shared dining car, trains have a way of making travel feel special. Many long-haul and luxury train journeys even offer themed experiences, fine dining, and comfortable sleeper cars that make the trip just as memorable as the places you visit. Unlike the rushed pace of flying, where every minute is about getting from point A to B, train travel allows you to slow down, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the simple pleasure of movement. Whether you’re a history buff, a romantic at heart, or just someone looking for a unique adventure, train travel has something magical to offer. For a while, flights were extremely popular as you can get to your destination quickly and start enjoying your destination, but what if you want to slow down and enjoy the journey? If you want to enjoy the journey, have more space, or save some money, taking a train is a great option to consider!




Tropical Sunset Travel, LLC is an expert travel agency based in Charleston, South Carolina. We book travel for couples, families, and groups to travel to destinations around the world. No matter what type of vacation you are dreaming of, our travel services can assist you. We also feature top vacation package options to help inspire you!  The Tropical Sunset Travel Blog is a great place to learn about top destinations and vacation options. Please visit our website for agency information and more. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more travel information and deals!

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