How to Prepare for a European Rail Trip

Embarking on a rail adventure across Europe promises unforgettable experiences, new relationships and the opportunity to see places you otherwise might not have chosen to visit. As well as affording you the flexibility to choose wherever you want to go at whatever time suits you best, travelling across the continent by train also provides awe-inspiring views whilst in a comfortable environment.  

However, to ensure a seamless and enjoyable European rail trip, preparation is key. To make the most out of your Europe tour, take note of these top tips that will make your rail adventure all the more exciting. 

Route Planning

Waking up one morning and picking a location out of a hat isn’t for you? Don’t worry! Planning your route before you set off on your adventure can play to your advantage. 

Start by knowing what destinations you want to visit. Plotting them on a map will help you visualise your route, making it a lot easier to know what order is best to travel in. This way, you can avoid excessively long trains and spend more time in each location. It might even encourage you to visit places you hadn’t considered! 

Choosing the Right Backpack for your Adventure

Opting for a backpack over a suitcase will allow you more freedom and flexibility when it comes to travelling by rail, especially when on a budget and expecting to get around a city on foot. 

It is recommended that you try on different backpacks to ensure you get the right size. No one wants to be the one trailing at the back of the group with their bag hanging off their back! 

A key tip is to choose a bag that has secure pockets for important belongings. In addition, you’ll want accessible compartments for when you’ve had enough exploring for the day and want to get your comfies on without having to unpack the entire backpack. 

Packing the Essentials for your European rail trip

If there’s one thing that’s going to make your travel life easier, it’s packing cubes. Organise your clothes into different cubes that are easy to take out of your bag without disrupting the packing system you will have ever-so-carefully created. 

Be the envy of those travelling with you by packing a neck pillow, ear plugs and an eye mask; the ultimate sleep combination! You don’t want sleep deprivation from a noisy night train to ruin a day of exploring. Read more about packing for your next adventure.

Be Flexible

Perhaps the most important tip for a journey across the continent is to be flexible. Trains can be cancelled and delayed, weather can impact travel, and plans might not work out the way you initially had hoped. So, it’s important to keep an open mind and take each challenge as an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone. You never know what you might stumble across!

Preparing holistically is the best way to start your trip knowing that you have done everything to make your journey as smooth as possible. Next stop: Adventure!