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A well thought-out preparation is the key to a successful trip. That’s certainly true when you go backpacking by train. The right packing list essentials for train backpacking make the difference between a comfortable, carefree journey and a trip full of discomfort. With a smart selection of clothing, gear and must-have items you’ll travel lighter and more comfortably. You’ll be prepared for the long journeys and changing conditions you encounter along the way. Curious how to pack your backpack like a pro? Read on and discover our complete packing list.
The basics: choosing the right backpack
Everything starts with the right backpack. For train journeys, a backpack of 40 to 50 litres is often ideal. This size is big enough for your belongings, yet compact enough to carry comfortably in crowded carriages and narrow aisles. Pay attention to the following features:
- Front loader: A backpack you can unzip like a suitcase (a front loader) is much more practical than a traditional top loader. You don’t have to turn your whole bag upside down to grab something from the bottom.
- Carrying comfort: Make sure it has an adjustable back system, a hip belt and a chest strap. You’ll carry the bag a lot, including when walking from the station to your accommodation. Good comfort is therefore anything but a luxury.
- Including rain cover: An unexpected downpour can soak your belongings. An integrated or separate rain cover is an absolute must.
‘ The solution is simple: layers. ’
Clothing: the power of layers
The temperature on trains can fluctuate quite a lot. The air conditioning can be blasting, while in a full carriage it can get quite warm. The solution is simple: layers. Choose garments you can easily mix and match, put on and take off.
Comfortable and versatile garments
- Merino wool: T-shirts or long-sleeved tops made of merino wool are a fantastic investment. This material breathes, regulates your temperature and doesn’t start to smell quickly. That means you have to do less washing and can take fewer clothes.
- A comfortable pair of trousers: Lightweight travel trousers or comfortable jeans are ideal for long days of sitting. Avoid tight or restrictive clothing.
- Cardigan or fleece: A warm cardigan or compact fleece is indispensable for chilly evenings or overzealous air conditioning.
- Waterproof and windproof jacket: A lightweight, packable jacket protects you from rain and wind and can serve as an extra layer when it’s cold.
- Enough socks and underwear: Take enough for a week so you don’t constantly have to look for a washing machine. Quick-drying materials are a big plus here.
Try organising your clothes with packing cubes. These handy pouches help you pack your belongings compactly and neatly, so you can quickly find what you’re looking for.
Electronics and gadgets
In the modern world, a few electronic helpers are indispensable, especially on a long trip. They keep you connected, provide entertainment and help you find your way.
- Power bank: Your best friend on long train journeys without sockets. Choose a model with enough capacity (at least 10,000 mAh) to charge your phone several times.
- Travel adapter: If you’re travelling through several countries with different types of sockets, a universal travel adapter is essential.
- Noise-cancelling headphones: For peace and quiet in a noisy carriage or hostel. It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and enjoy your own music or a podcast.
- E-reader: An e-reader is much lighter and more compact than a stack of books and offers hours of reading pleasure.
Comfort and safety on the road
Train travel and staying in hostels or budget hotels call for a few items that boost your comfort and sense of security.
Must-haves for a carefree trip
- Travel lock: A small padlock is indispensable. Use it to lock your backpack, but also for lockers in hostels. A lock with a cable is extra handy for securing your bag to something.
- Neck pillow and sleep mask: For naps on the train or a better night’s sleep in a bright dorm. An inflatable neck pillow hardly takes up any space.
- Earplugs: A simple but effective way to block background noise. Essential for light sleepers.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce your plastic waste. At many stations you can refill your bottle.
‘ Large bottles of shampoo and shower gel are unnecessary and heavy. ’
Compact toiletries
Save space and weight by opting for smart toiletries. Large bottles of shampoo and shower gel are unnecessary and heavy.
- Solid toiletries: Consider shampoo, conditioner and soap bars. They are light, compact, last a long time and can’t leak.
- Quick-drying towel: A microfibre towel is lightweight, dries incredibly quickly and takes up little space.
- Small first-aid kit: Put together a personal kit with plasters, paracetamol, blister plasters and any personal medication.
- Toiletry bag with hanging hook: Super handy for small or less clean bathrooms in hostels or on campsites.
Entertainment for the long journeys
The hours on the train are a perfect time to relax. Besides your e-reader or music, there are other ways to make the time pleasantly pass.
- A pack of cards: One of the most compact and sociable forms of entertainment. It’s a great way to connect with fellow travellers.
- Travel journal and pen: Write down your experiences, take notes or sketch the landscapes that pass you by.
- Language guide or app: Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. It’s often appreciated and opens doors to contact with local people.
This packing list is a solid starting point for your train adventure. Would you like more in-depth tips on planning the perfect train journey, from mapping out routes to finding the most beautiful destinations? On the Traveler Tips website you’ll find countless articles to help you travel smarter, more consciously and more comfortably. Discover more and start preparing for your unforgettable trip today.
Frequently asked questions
To travel smart and light on your train backpacking adventure, a large backpack (40–65 litres) with rain cover and a small daypack are essential, together with packing cubes for compact clothing. Keep important documents and money safe in a money belt or Pacsafe bag. Opt for versatile, quick-drying clothes you can layer for changing weather conditions and use travel-sized toiletries. Finally, a power bank, earphones, sleep mask and flip-flops are indispensable for comfort on trains and in hostels.
For long train journeys and on arrival at your destination, a large backpack (40–65 litres) with rain cover and a small daypack are essential. In addition, travel documents and money kept in a money belt or Pacsafe bag are crucial for theft prevention. Versatile, quick-drying layered clothing, travel-sized hygiene products and a power bank provide comfort and convenience on the road. Finally, don’t forget a first-aid kit and hostel essentials such as earplugs, a sleep mask and flip-flops.
To prepare for unexpected adventures and make your train journey more enjoyable, focus on lightweight and versatile items. A large backpack (40–65 litres) with a small daypack, packing cubes and vacuum bags is essential for efficient luggage. Think of a layered clothing system with quick-drying outfits for 7–10 days, supplemented with microfibre towels and travel-sized toiletries. Finally, don’t forget a power bank, travel adapter and offline maps for the road, along with a money belt and essential travel documents for security.
A large backpack (40–65 litres) with rain cover and a small daypack are essential for both main luggage and day trips, while packing cubes and vacuum bags ensure compact organisation. Multifunctional, quick-drying layered clothing is indispensable for changing weather conditions and easy handwashing. A microfibre towel dries quickly and is ideal for various situations, from showering to swimming. Finally, a money belt or Pacsafe bag provides crucial theft prevention for documents and money, and a power bank keeps your electronics charged.
