- When packing for train trips, think about groups of items to pack---clothing, toiletries, snacks and activities. Consider the length of the trip. If it is a multi-hour or overnight ride, packing sufficient clothing changes and snack items is a must. Use the dining car for meal times, but bring typical snack items that don't require refrigeration such as fruit, pre-packaged crackers or cookies and juice boxes. For younger children, pack a spare set of clothes in case of accidents or spills. Remember diapers, wipes and disposable bags for infants and toddlers.
Think about quiet and rest times. Small pillows and blankets are essential for downtime or naps. Bring sweaters or jackets in case the cabin air is too cold, but dress in easy-to-change layers to regulate your kids' comfort. - Prepare for what you'll see and do along the way. Have a route map to trace your path and find interesting destinations to point out along the way; this also presents a good opportunity to teach your children how to read maps. Take a camera or binoculars to capture your favorite sights of the trip or view the landscape as it floats by the window.
Some kids prefer solitary activities and the adults will need a break from high interaction time. Fully charged iPods or headphones and some favorite music provide a refreshing break. Coloring or activity books with crayons and colored pens and pencils are great for individual quiet time. If you're traveling during school, bring along the homework.
For group interaction, bring travel-size board games or decks of cards. Think about conversation topics to discuss and tuck a list in your pocket or bag for older children. Talking about the places you're passing or your final destination as an educational and exciting way to prepare for your arrival. Playing "I Spy," geography or guessing games are "no-materials required" options that only need some minor advance planning. - Consider what to leave at home. Train trips allow you to be in a community of other travelers, but this means you need to respect their travel plans as well. Leave behind exceptionally noisy toys or games that could disturb those seated around you. Save the "racing" toys that have to run across the floor for your home because you don't want to spend your train ride chasing a remote control Tonka truck all over the compartment.
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