Riding on Amtrak is our favorite thing to do! Over the years we’ve compiled a list of must have items to make your Amtrak trip more enjoyable. If you are looking to take better photos or just have an easier trip to the bathroom in the night, these suggestions will help!
The Most Requested Item
By far the most requested item we get is the charger we use in our videos. We have been using this one for the last year and love it! If you are going on an Amtrak trip, don’t go without this charger!
- [THE PERFECT WORLDWIDE TRAVEL ADAPTOR] – Use this 4 port usb charger to 150+ countries, fits with US UK EU CHINA outlets. This all in one travel adapter comes in one piece, and where many USB Travel Adapter comes in many pieces.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This box will charge 4 regular USB devices at once. It will plug into the single outlet in an Amtrak Roomette and let you charge one item from a regular plug and 4 USB Items at once. Problems solved! They come in packs of 1 or 2, you really only need 1.
Packing For Amtrak
Backpack that Allie uses on the train
- AFTER SALES SERVICE : We solemnly promise that within one year of receiving this product, if any quality defects occur during normal use, you only need to take a photo of the defective product and contact us. We will reply with a solution to the problem within 24 hours, or send you a new identical product for free to replace the defective product
Last update on 2025-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Backpack Rob Uses on the train
- Professional and Large capacity- Dimention: 12.5 x 9 x 21 inch (L x W x H), Endurax hiking camera backpack is large to fit 2 DSLR camera with long lens attached like Tamron or Sigma 150-600 mm lens. Top quick access compartment can still fit a DSLR camera with lens attached. An extra large protective padding included to prevent cameras from shaking.
Last update on 2025-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This backpack serves several purposes for us. First of all it is waterproof, so it holds our most valuable gear, including cameras, drones, and computers. Secondly, it has a hard shell on the top and the back, so there is added protection if it gets bumped or falls. The hard shell also doubles as a drone launch and landing pad if you carry one! Most importantly though, this backpack is large. If you are riding in coach you’ll want to keep all of your valuables with you when you leave your seat, and this backpack will fit everything you need and more.
Rob carries this backpack and loves the comfort and durability it has shown so far.
Lowepro Camera Bag
Allie carries this smaller camera bag for her GoPro and Sony A6600 Camera. Even though we both carry a GoPro, we use the one she carries for almost all of the filming we do, since it is easily accessible. This bag has proven to be a valuable addition to our luggage. She loves just taking this bag down to the observation car or even the dining car to take take some pictures and videos.
- The Adventura SH 160 II fits a DSLR with attached kit lens (such as Canon Rebel T5i with 18-135mm), extra lens (such as 28-300mm zoom) and flash, spare memory card and small accessories
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
21 Inch Suitcase
When we first started riding Amtrak we both were using the large 26 inch suitcases, and they were just too big for every situation. If you are checking your bags or are going to leave them in the storage compartment on the lower level of a Superliner Sleeper Car, those will work, but they can be difficult to get up the steps on Amtrak trains.
Instead we now use the 21 inch suitcase and it is much easier. In general these bags are much easier to manage than our older, larger bags. If you are doing a long trip, each person should have one, but for a trip of just a few days, you could get away with just one.
- CARRY-ON DESIGN: Best for 1-5 day trips without the hassle of checking luggage; measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches, including wheels
- DURABLE AND RELIABLE: Extra-thick hard shell with scratch-resistant finish guards against impact and rough handling
- EXPANDABLE: Increase packing space up to 25% for added flexibility and organization
Last update on 2025-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Travel Duffle Bag
Update: We now travel with a 30L Columbia Bag that we bought in the store.
Our snack bag! When in coach we put a 6 pack of soda and quite a few snacks in this bag. In a sleeper car, we leave the soda out since it is included. We choose this bag because frankly, it looks terrible. But, it is also not the type of bag others would think something nice is in, so we are confident to just leave it at our seat when we walk around the train. We only keep food in our “leave at our seat bag” anyway, so if somebody wants some, it wouldn’t bother us if they took anything!
You really don’t want to be leaving your Vera Bradley bag on your seat in coach while you go to the observation car.
- Decent room: 20 x 9.5 x 9.5 Inches, 23L, enough space for personal exchange clothes for domestic and international travel as well, or gears for shuttling between work and gym. One inner pocket (Size 9 x 8 inches) for private storage like personal items and toiletries. One outer pocket (Size 6.7 x 6.3 inches) for quick access to tickets, phone charger, earphones, tissues, etc.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sleeping On The Train
Bose Sleep Buds II
Allie doesn’t like hearing the train through the night while she is sleeping so she wears these Sleep Buds all night. They are noise canceling headphones that eliminate most of the train noise. Since she started wearing these at night, her sleep on the train has improved dramatically. If you purchase these, get the version II, they are way better than the version I.
- Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ears
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Neck Pillow
We both use a neck pillow on the train. They are useful during the day for a nap or at night to sleep. One like this snaps easily to the upper loop on our backpack, so we conserve space by carrying it that way.
- PERFECT CHIN SUPPORT TRAVEL NECK PILLOW – This airplane pillow can better wrap your neck and free your chin, prevents the head from falling forward, relieves neck pain during travel.
- 【Travel Neck Pillow】Travel Travel Pillow With Chin Wrap Function Allows You to Maintain An Upright Posture and Relieve Neck, Shoulder and Back Discomfort Caused By Car and Airplane Travel.
Last update on 2025-08-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Life On The Train
INUI Portable Charger
Ok, so you bring a lot of electronics with you on the train. We do too! We also carry a larger charger that will charge two USB devices at once. Great for a tablet, phone or computer. This one doesn’t need an outlet to charger your devices so it really helps out when your battery is running low.
- [From INIU–the SAFE Fast Charge Pro] Experience the safest charging with over 38 million global users. At INIU, we use only the highest-grade materials, so we do have the confidence to provide an industry-leading 3-Year iNiu Care.
Last update on 2025-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Billabong Flip Flop
We bought these for Rob to use on the train. They are perfect. Easy to slip on at night when he crawls out of the top bunk to go down the hallway to the bathroom, but also stylish enough to wear during the day. You’ll definitely want a nice pair of flip flops to take to the shower and bathroom, but why not get ones you can wear out too.
Some of the fresh air breaks are quick, and you don’t want to waste 2-3 minutes of the 7 minute break to find and put on socks and shoes. This is a big deal when your next stop isn’t for another 4 hours!
- Vegan nubuck upper strap with sbr padding
- Boat friendly non scuff outsole
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Woman’s Pashmina
Allie gets cold on the train, and brings this to the dining car and observation car to use as needed. It is also great to throw on quickly when stepping off the train at a quick fresh air break.
- Super Soft and Luxurious Cashmere Feel Wedding Shawl Scarf:Furtalk scarves have passed the test of color fastness,which is important for your family’s health. For optimal care,hand wash in cold water to preserve the luxurious quality.Avoid using bleach.You may wash individually using hair shampoo.Gently squeeze out excess water without twisting.Dry in the shade and lay flat to maintain shape
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ginger Chews
If you think you might have a problem with motion sickness on the train, these could help. Allie uses them and says they do help to settle her stomach if she is experiencing any type of motion sickness.
- SWEET & SPICY. Prince of Peace Original Ginger Chews are an easy and tasty way for you to enjoy ginger on the go.
Last update on 2025-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Hanging Toiletries Bag
There isn’t much counter space in the bathrooms on Amtrak and if there is counter space, it could be wet. That water is hard to control on a moving train. For that reason we suggest a hanging toiletries bag. There is usually a hook to hang it up on the back of the door.
- Dimension: Medium-10.8’‘L x 3.5″W x 7.9H(folded); Large-12.6’‘L x 4.5″W x 9H(folded); 4 separate compartments with zip and back open pocket for great organization. Suitable for your family trip to pack all men, women , and kids toiletries
- Large Capacity: Medium size: Rolled – 11” x 3.7″ x 7.9″; Opened – 9.5” x 4″ x 26.5; Large size :Rolled: 12.2” x 4″ x 9″; Opened: 10.5” x 4″ x 29.8. 4 separate compartments with 1 TSA-approved cosmetic bag
- Never Lose Items Again：Stay perfectly organized on the go with 10 dedicated compartments. This hanging bag neatly stores all your cosmetics, toiletries, and essentials, making everything easy to find and access in an instant
Last update on 2025-08-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Lysol Disinfectant Wipes
There are so many uses for these, especially if you are in a Viewliner I Roomette (with toilet). Just plan to bring some and you’ll be glad to have them if you need them.
- CLEANING SUPPLIES: Keep your space disinfected with Lysol Disinfectant Wipes, a top choice for those searching for household essentials & cleaning supplies. Whether you’re stocking up for your dorm, apartment, or classroom, these wipes are essential.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Metal Travel Straw
We use these in a variety of situations, and they come in real handy. They are easy to clip on your backpack.
- 【MINI & PORTABLE DESIGN】: our telescoping Metal straws comes in a aluminum alloy case specifically designed to keep it handy and clean. The travel case is lightweight in size for you to easily throw in your purse, pocket, cosmetic bag, key chain etc.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Water Bottle
Amtrak provides water for you, but sometimes you just want your own bottle.
- Refreshing Taste: Stay hydrated this season with Pure Life Water, the official water of MLB. Every bottle features minerals for a refreshing taste that makes drinking water delicious. 24 pack of 8 Fl Oz water bottles.
- One-Hand Operation for Easy Drinking: The Exllena small travel flasks features a user-friendly design that allows you to open the cap effortlessly with one hand. Equipped with a straw for easy drinking on the go, it ensures convenience in any situation. Perfect for quick sips without needing both hands.
Last update on 2025-08-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Electronics on the Train
We carry an extensive amount of Cameras and accessories on the train. If you’d like to see all of our photo and video equipment, and how we use it, see our Amtrak photography post.
GoPro Hero 11 Black
The best way to capture video on the train is with a GoPro. The newest version out as of this writing is the Hero 11 Black. We each have one while we are on the train.
- Capture. Charge. Get a Highlight Video Automatically
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Amazon Kindle Oasis
Allie loves to read on a train as she enjoys the passing scenery. She’s tried most of the Kindle’s and this one is her favorite. It is easy to hold and easy on the eyes.
- Our best 7″, 300 ppi flush-front Paperwhite display.
- Adjustable warm light to shift screen shade from white to amber.
- Waterproof (IPX8) so you can read in the bath or by the pool. Your Kindle has been tested to withstand accidental immersion in water.
Last update on 2025-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Tablet
Rob has a Samsung tablet and Allie carries an iPad with her on the train. It is good to download a few movies because on the long distance trains you won’t have WiFi or cell service in some places.
- GALAXY TAB S6 LITE, MORE POWERFUL THAN EVER: With an included S Pen, crystal-clear display and Dolby Atmos surround sound, this reliable tablet is all about fun plus a little work
- UNWIND WITH A BIG SCREEN: Kick back and relax with big, bright screens.¹ See every detail of your favorite shows, and get closer to the action on your favorite games with 90hz refresh rate. Plus, dual speakers make everything sound amazing.
Last update on 2025-08-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- WHY IPAD AIR — Serious performance in a thin and light design. With an immersive 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and the amazing performance of the M1 chip, iPad Air is a creative and gaming powerhouse. Featuring Touch ID, advanced cameras, superfast Wi-Fi 6, and a USB-C connector.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Snacks
Snacks are important if you stay up late, as dinner and the cafe will close long before you go to sleep. Bring enough snacks to make it through your trip as the snacks in the cafe are expensive and only available until around 10pm.
Orange Smoothie Protein Bar
This is Rob’s go to snack on the train. It tastes great and provides enough protein to feel like a meal. We’ve only seen the Orange Smoothie flavor at one local store in New York, so we just order them now. They are not messy, so they can be easily eaten on the top berth overnight. We also sometimes get the Caramel Bars.
- Families love NuGo Protein bars! Every NuGo Original protein bar is made with real, non-GMO ingredients, loaded with vitamins, and certified gluten free to help keep your family fit and happy. Perfect for packing into their little lunches – or your own.
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- CARAMEL CHAOS: A thick caramel layer covers this protein bar and crispy crunchies give Grenade’s Caramel Chaos the perfect texture! A triple-layered, high protein bar that is the perfect guilt-free snack! Go ahead, and indulge, our Carb Killa bars will keep you on track with your health and fitness goals
Last update on 2025-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
