10 Tips for Family Train Travel Adventures

We’re living in an era where reducing your carbon footprint is no longer a choice but now viewed as a necessity. If you are a family who loves to travel and you live somewhere with a decent train network, one way to balance your need to explore with a commitment to your eco-conscious kids is to take to the rails for longer journeys.

While it can seem easier to throw everything in the car and drive off, there are far more benefits to letting the train take the strain. On trains, you can move around, there’s plenty to look at, the buffet car provides a great distraction, and you don’t have to factor in emergency toilet stops. Here are ten tips to ensure you and your kids have a smooth ride:

1. Plan Your Route

You might know what points A, B, and even C might be, but have you looked at the connections? Consider whether they are too close for comfort when you factor in hauling small people, suitcases, and buggies over to different platforms. Likewise, five hours on a train can seem like an eternity with a toddler who won’t nap, so consider carefully what you are committing to, especially if your family is new to train travel.

2. Book Ahead

Advance planning usually secures better prices, but when traveling with kids, it also allows you to secure yourselves a table, ideally in a carriage not too far from the buffet car. A little leg stretching is good, but navigating a hot cup of tea with a moving train and an enthusiastic toddler can be challenging. Additionally, early booking might give you the option for a reasonably priced upgrade to first class, providing ample space for the kids and complimentary drinks.

3. Travel Off-Peak

Sometimes it’s unavoidable to travel with commuters, but whenever possible, give them a wide berth. Not only will the tickets typically be cheaper, but there will also be more space for your children to spread out, reducing the chances of disrupting someone preparing for an important meeting. Consequently, this makes it less stressful for everyone involved. It’s also worth noting that some routes empty past a certain stop, allowing you to endure a crowded hour knowing your kids will get more space for most of the trip.

4. Do Your Research

The internet is an amazing resource. Search for your route, the train operator you are using, and anything else relevant. You might find that your train has a child-friendly carriage, as some European trains even have soft play centers on board—yes, really! At the very least, you will learn about any railcards or discounts you can utilize.

5. Expect the Unexpected

The golden rule of traveling with kids when it comes to trains is to be prepared for delays or rerouting and sudden spikes or dips in carriage temperatures. Always travel with a change of clothing, a basic medical pack, a few snacks, and a spare charger. The train experience is no different from traveling by plane or car in this regard.

6. Prep Your Kids – and Yourself

If your family is new to rail travel, it’s crucial to consider the small person’s perspective: stations can be fascinating yet also overwhelming—especially for neuro-diverse children. Looking out of the window holds interest for only a short time, and even the most train-obsessed toddler can become bored of the sounds after a while. Regardless of your kids’ ages, discuss what to expect and be ready with distractions, games, and your full attention.

7. Travel Light

Aside from the essentials mentioned previously, try to travel as lightly as possible. Managing to get your kids, yourselves, and a multitude of bags off a train in a hurry is a daunting task. Moreover, it’s beneficial to teach your kids that they can thrive with less than they think they need. If feasible, consider ditching the stroller in favor of a carrier or encouraging them to use their own legs. If you must bring a stroller, ensure it folds easily, as you will be collapsing it often.

8. Get Ready to Game

One great advantage of train travel is that the entire family can engage in activities to pass the time. Card games or travel versions of popular favorites such as chess, scrabble, or even Monopoly can keep everyone entertained. For younger children, puzzles or I-Spy work well, while teens often appreciate the Wi-Fi available on most trains. This could even be a chance for you to play along and learn about their world.

9. Relax Your Rules

Like other forms of long-distance travel, this is not the time to strictly enforce food or screen rules. While it’s never a good idea to let kids consume too many sweets, a treat here and there helps the journey pass more pleasantly—plus trips to the buffet car offer a great way to break up the trip. Additionally, screen time can be beneficial when you’re deep into the journey and everyone needs a breather from each other.

10. Have Some Fun

Whether it’s reading together, attempting crossword puzzles, creating silly drawings, or playing a quiet game of cards, embarking on a long-distance train journey as a family provides an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy each other’s company. You can even turn it into an real adventure by taking a sleeper train (a sleepover! On a train!). Nevertheless, remember the age-old saying: it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.