Suggestions for decent ride on Autotrain?

[kathyg]

This will be our third trip by autotrain, but the first without sleeping compartments. I am quite hesitant about sitting up the whole time with no privacy. Can anyone offer any suggestions to make this a more pleasant trip. I have read tips on this board, but cannot do a search. Travelling will be myself, my DH and my DD (teenager, if you know what I mean). Any advice will be so appreciated. Thanks.

 

[dandelion]

Kathy, the seats are wide and recline quite a bit, almost like a recliner at home. They seemed to separate the seating assignments by families with babies, families with school-age children, then an "adults only" car. Hopefully your dd is old enough so you'll be placed with the adults, unless she'd rather be with younger kids also.

Many have complained here about the bathrooms being dirty, however I did not find that to be the case in late April. Nevertheless, I would heed the advice to bring anti bacterial wipes.

We packed a separate overnight bag to bring on the train, I packed clean underwear and socks for everyone, however I was the only one who wanted to change in the morning. Dh and the kids said they felt fine

Before "bedding down" (they turn the lights down around 9 p.m. IIRC) I changed into comfy flannel pants and very thick socks (no shoes) I think dh just took his shoes off, the kids were in sweats. Our car was uncrowded enough that dh and dd could each use two seats. Dd (6) made herself a little bed across the two seats. My Ds (4) stretched out on the fully reclined seat, I was concerned about him falling/rolling off, so I stayed next to him all night.

It wasn't an entirely restful night, but it was ok. Certainly better for us than continuing to drive, we had already driven 8+ hours from upstate NY.

Happy travels!

 

[Credit Man]

We are going down in Aug. on the Autotrain for the 3rd time. We take our own pillows and old sheets which we drape from the overhead luggage rack down to the floor. It does add a little privacy. We also keep an eye out for empty seats if the train is not full. It is much easier to sleep if you can get both seats for yourself.

 

[kathyg]

Thank you both for the info. I will certainly use your tips!