Recently more people have chosen to either fly or drive to their desired destination for family holiday traveling. However, if your schedule permits, traveling by train could be the perfect alternative for your family’s needs. Let’s take a look at some of the perks of traveling by train, whether you and your family are traveling for one of the major holidays or simply a quick getaway.
The greatest benefit of choosing the train as a mode of transportation during your holiday travel is the simple fact that you aren’t left with the responsibility of driving. Whether you hit bad weather or not, you don’t have the stress of worrying about other drivers, road conditions or whether or not you have to pull over at the next rest stop (or next five rest stops) for the children.
Speaking of rest stops, which is another worry you no longer have when traveling by train. The entire experience of hearing your children say “But Mom…I gotta go!” is no more, with the practical onboard washroom facilities. You can also get up to stretch your legs, or even take a well deserved nap if that’s what you wish to do.
Depending on the length of your journey, meals are possibly not an issue either. The dining car can take care of all major meals, and they are usually quite accommodating to various dietary needs, as well as offering kids’ meals for your little ones. You can easily supplement this with snacks from home, saving you money and allowing you to control the sugar consumption.
Along with the snacks, you can also bring small games, books, mp3 players and other items to keep your children occupied during the trip. This is just in case the novelty of traveling by train doesn’t last long enough, or your trip will be longer than a few hours. And don’t forget those all-important blankets and other security items for your little ones!
You may want to check in advance with the train station about family discounts, or at the very least discounted fares for children. As a rule, children under the age of 2 travel free with an adult. From the age of 2 through 8, the price is normally around half the cost of an adult fare. And, students who can provide proof of college enrollment (an identification card for example) can receive a discount as well.
Some train lines also provide mini tours and visits to the different parts of the train for children. Ask if this is an option before you make your arrangements, as it could end up being the highlight of your children’s trip. Coloring books and crayons, information about train travel and other items may be given to children if the staff is aware of your children being onboard ahead of time.
Travel with your family by train may not be as popular as it once was, but it can be the ideal situation for your needs. The simple lack of stress can be well worth this choice. Best of all, the entire family can enjoy each other’s company, since they can travel together without one member having to concentrate on the road.