Traveling is all about choices, and one of the fundamental decisions you make is how to get from point A to point B. While planes are often the go-to option for long-distance travel, there are many scenarios where taking the train is not just a practical alternative—it’s a better choice altogether. Trains can offer significant perks in terms of cost, comfort, convenience, and even the experience itself. Here’s a closer look at when and why train travel might be the perfect fit for your next journey.
Cost Savings and No Hidden Fees
Flight prices can skyrocket, especially during peak travel seasons or when booking last minute. On the other hand, train tickets tend to be more consistent in pricing and are often cheaper for shorter to medium distances. For example, if you're traveling between major cities like New York and Washington D.C., a train ride on Amtrak is frequently more affordable than a last-minute plane ticket.
Another big advantage? No baggage fees. Most trains allow you to bring multiple pieces of luggage without the hefty extras that airlines love to tack on. This alone can make trains the more budget-friendly option if you’re traveling with larger bags or lots of gear.
A Greener Option
If you're mindful of your environmental footprint, train travel is the way to go. Trains emit far fewer greenhouse gases per passenger compared to planes. This makes them an eco-conscious choice, especially for regional trips.
For example, in Europe, trains like the Eurostar, which connects London to Paris, boast impressively low carbon emissions compared to flying the same route. By choosing trains over planes, you’re not just opting for a ticket—you’re voting for a greener planet.
No Stress With Security and Delays
One of the major pain points of flying is the hassle of getting through security and the unpredictability of flight schedules. Long lines at TSA, strict rules about liquids, and getting to the airport hours in advance—none of this applies when you’re taking the train.
Trains typically have shorter boarding times and more relaxed security checks. You can often arrive 30 minutes before departure and still have time to spare. Plus, they’re far less likely to experience weather-related delays, which makes them dependable, particularly for regional journeys.
Comfort Comes Standard
Comfort is another area where trains often outshine planes, even before you upgrade to first class. Most train seats are spacious, with ample legroom, wide aisles, and the ability to move around freely. There’s no awkward scooching past someone in the middle seat, and reclining your seat won’t have the person behind you giving you the side-eye.
For long-distance trips, sleeper trains take the comfort factor to another level. For instance, Amtrak’s sleeper cabins or Europe’s overnight trains like the Nightjet offer cozy berths with privacy, ensuring you arrive at your destination well-rested—something planes simply can’t match.
Stunning Scenery
For many travelers, the biggest perk of train travel is the experience itself. Unlike planes, where your view is limited to clouds (or nothing at all if you’re in the middle seat), trains take you through some of the most scenic landscapes the region has to offer.
Consider the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, which takes passengers on a breathtaking route through the mountains, rivers, and forests of British Columbia and Alberta. Similarly, Switzerland’s Glacier Express offers jaw-dropping views of alpine peaks and charming villages. These train rides are more than a mode of transport—they’re an integral part of the vacation itself.
Downtown-to-Downtown Convenience
Planes may win when it comes to speed, but you’ll often lose time getting to and from airports, which tend to be far outside city centers. Trains, on the other hand, usually arrive right in the heart of a city. This eliminates the need for costly or time-consuming transfers, particularly if you’re traveling to urban destinations.
For example, in the U.S., taking the train between Boston and New York saves you the headache of navigating busy airports. Similarly, in Europe, high-speed rail networks connect cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin in a way that’s both faster and more fuss-free than flying.
When Time Is Not a Factor
Train travel shines when your schedule allows for a more leisurely pace. Unlike flying, where you’re constantly checking the clock, trains give you the luxury to relax. You can enjoy a meal in the dining car, catch up on reading, or even stretch your legs during a scenic break at a station.
For instance, Japan's Shinkansen (bullet trains) offer a smooth, quiet ride that makes even longer trips pleasurable. The experience feels less rushed and more in tune with the joy of travel itself.
Accessibility for All
Trains also tend to be a more inclusive form of transport. They’re generally more accessible for people with mobility issues, offering plenty of space for wheelchairs and easier boarding processes compared to planes. This makes train travel appealing for families with young children, elderly passengers, and anyone who finds the hustle of airports overwhelming.
Next time you’re planning a trip, consider leaving the airport behind and stepping into the unique world of train travel. You might just find it’s the better—and more enjoyable—way to go.
