Joey Hadden/Business Insider
Why Train Travel Outshines Other Transportation Methods
- Embarking on over 160 hours aboard trains has convinced me that they are the premier way to travel.
- Throughout my journeys across North America and Europe, I have found that trains offer greater comfort and reliability compared to both air travel and driving.
- Choosing to travel by train is also among the most eco-friendly options available.
According to recent reports from The Wall Street Journal in July, over 24 million passengers have utilized Amtrak services since October 2023—a remarkable increase of 18% from last year. This trend positions Amtrak for its highest passenger figures yet in 2024.
A Shift Toward Rail Travel
It’s clear why an increasing number of Americans are gravitating towards trains as their mode of transport. Having spent numerous hours flying and driving, I turned to railways three years ago—and it’s been liberating ever since.
With more than 5,000 miles covered across various classes via Amtrak in the U.S., Via Rail in Canada, as well as several European lines, I’ve come away satisfied; train journeys mark my top choice for sustainable transit options ranging from quick hops to lengthy overnight trips.
Trains: A Green Choice for Travelers
I emphasize being mindful about how my travels affect our planet. Experts affirm that opting for trains significantly reduces one’s environmental footprint when compared to flying. For instance:
In America, Amtrak indicates that traveling by train can slash carbon emissions by 72% relative to air travel. Meanwhile, figures from Eurail suggest that train journeys minimize carbon output by between 66% – 75%, especially when juxtaposed against cars or planes.
Reliability That Reassures
Although no mode of transportation is flawless, my experiences indicate that train schedules tend to be more dependable overall. Most departures and arrivals during my trips were punctual—save for infrequent delays which never exceeded two hours at most.
These experiences stand in stark contrast to countless flights plagued by delays lasting anywhere between an hour up through nearly twenty-four hours! Such unpredictability incites anxiety regarding timely arrival—especially during memorable family gatherings.
In recent times, I’ve also experienced less consistency while road-tripping due largely to inevitable traffic snarls.
Comfort Beyond Compare
In terms of personal comfort on long voyages or short jaunts alike, I lean towards the spaciousness offered aboard trains rather than cramped airplane seating or confined car interiors. Train upgrades often come at reasonable prices too—as they allow me access comfortably fitted first-class seats alongside wider accommodations without breaking the bank!
For overnight escapades? I’d much rather recline entirely within a sleeper cabin than contest restfulness against upright economy seats during late-night flights or extended car rides home after long days out exploring.
Making Journeys Part of Your Adventure
Collectively speaking—the appeal extends far beyond just comfort or sustainability; taking trips via rail lets travelers immerse themselves fully into stunning landscapes which shift fluidly throughout their journey’s length!
Moreover, riding along slows down life considerably—forcing me into rare moments where I cease activities momentarily—a practice difficult amidst life’s daily hustle.I’m confident I’ll continue making wise decisions favoring railway routes wherever feasible moving forward.
