What to take on a train for comfort: things that will change your perception of cosy travel

A long journey can be tiring, but it can also be an enjoyable part of your trip — it all depends on what you take with you. We have put together some practical tips and a list of items and products that will help you sleep, keep warm, snack and feel comfortable even on a long journey. Find out how to turn your train into a cosy space

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Experienced travellers usually know in advance what food and items to take with them on the train to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey. However, beginners often encounter minor but annoying problems: cold in the carriage, nowhere to charge their phone, uncomfortable sleeping conditions or nothing to eat. Sometimes, just one forgotten detail can ruin the whole trip.

Let's figure out what you really need to pack in your bag to make your trip comfortable, both physically and emotionally.

What to take with you on the train: a list for true comfort

During the cold season and in case of possible power outages, the most important things are those that provide warmth and autonomy.

First and foremost, these are:

▪️ a thermos with tea or coffee

▪️ a blanket

▪️ a power bank

Even if there are blankets on the train, your own blanket is always more comfortable and warmer. And if severe cold is expected, small salt warmers will come in handy.

Another almost indispensable item is a power strip. The sockets in the carriage are usually occupied, and it is often the power strip that saves the whole group.

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Items that will radically improve your trip

▪️ Sleep mask and earplugs — allow you to sleep even next to noisy neighbours

▪️ Small travel pillow — will relieve neck pain

▪️ Slippers — convenient for walking around the carriage and going to the toilet

▪️ Moisturising eye drops — the air in the train is often dry

▪️ Headphones — help you tune out external noise

Also be sure to pack:

▪️ Antiseptic, wet wipes and a bottle of clean water — these are the basics for comfort on the road.

If the trip is long (a day or more), you will need:

▪️ Dry shampoo

▪️ Bags for rubbish and clothes

▪️ A folding fan (especially in summer)

Don't forget chargers for all your gadgets and a small folding knife — it often comes in handy.

A separate tip: pack a small ‘travel bag’. Put everything you need at hand in it — documents, food, water, gadgets. You can store your main luggage under the shelf and not have to take it out every hour.

What to take on the train in terms of food: products that won't spoil on the way

In winter, the list of foods is longer — the cold helps them stay fresh longer. In summer, it is better to choose foods that are as heat-resistant as possible.

Important: pay attention to the packaging. Vacuum-packed foods last much longer than regular foods.

If you are travelling for more than a day, choose compact and long-lasting foods.

The best foods for the train

▪️ Dry-cured sausages

▪️ Dried meat

▪️ Dried fish or squid

▪️ Breadsticks instead of bread

▪️ Nuts

▪️ Dried fruit

Such food is convenient, light, does not take up much space and does not spoil.

In winter, you can also take ham, but it is better to eat it immediately after boarding if the carriage is warm.

By the way, your trip will be even more comfortable if you check and book tickets in advance not only for trains, but also for buses or other types of transport through Visit Ukraine — this helps you find an option faster in case of a change of plans.

Reminder! Ukrzaliznytsia is introducing dynamic pricing for SV premium carriages and 1st class Intercity+ carriages. Find out how ticket prices will change depending on the season, day of the week, demand and date of purchase.

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