Toddler Train Travel: 7 Tips for Easier Trips

Driving long-distance with a toddler in the back seat may not be your idea (or anyone’s idea) of a good time, but air travel with a toddler can be pricey — even if you make the ultimate sacrifice and keep your little one on your lap the whole time. Toddler travel by train is a good compromise: It can be speedier than a car ride and (usually) costs less than plane fare. Still, train trips come with their own set of challenges. Here’s how to make toddler travel easier when you’re riding by rail.

Travel at off-peak times. This is when the train will be least crowded, which means you may be able to snag some extra seats for your child to move around and play, a sanity-saver during toddler travel. If your partner’s coming along, that additional space may be enough for you to stretch out and sneak in some Z’s.
Arrive early. Since trains don’t always allow you to book assigned seats, getting there early will help ensure that you find seats for the family to sit together, which makes traveling with a toddler that much easier. When riding with kids and two adults, consider sending one adult on board first to hold the seats while the other adult boards with your slow-moving toddler.
Snag the first set of seats. If you arrive early enough, and there are no wheelchair-bound passengers who need the space, aim for the group of chairs that face each other, usually in the front or back of the car. Since there are no rows of seats between these chairs, your toddler’s little legs won’t be able to kick the patience out of fellow passengers.
Bring diversions — lots of them. Your tot will enjoy watching the scenery out the window for only so long. So bring toys and games (check out toddler travel activities for on-the-go entertainment), just as you would when traveling with kids by any other mode of transportation.
Get moving as much as you can. Let your toddler take walks down the train’s aisle (only while holding your hand) to let him blow off some steam. Similarly, take advantage of any stops you may make to let your toddler wander around the train station and exert some energy.
Don’t count on the dining car. There may not be food on the train, but even if there is, you can’t guarantee your toddler will be willing to eat what they’re serving. So, just as you would when you travel with a toddler by car or plane, bring your own snacks and drinks (you know your toddler’s favorites).
Turn your seats into a sleep sanctuary. Some kids will sleep anywhere; others need some help. The more you make the train chairs like your toddler’s bed, the more likely he’ll rest. Bring a pillow and a blanket (bonus points for bringing his pillow and blankie!) so he has no trouble napping. Try to mimic your child’s bedtime routine — whether you read a story or sing a lullaby — to up the odds that he nods off.