查看原文
其他

10 Things to Keep in Mind Before Traveling By Train

2018-03-29 Claire L. Squire ShanghaiWOWeng

With the weather getting nice, you may find yourself with the strong urge to start traveling more. In China, there's no better (or more fun) way to do that than by hopping on a train. Whether you’re traveling by ultra-modern bullet train or pottering along on a slow and steady sleeper train, the distances covered are often huge. Because it’s important to be prepared for whatever train travels can throw at you, here are some indispensable tips to help you get ready for your next journey. 


Passport (we’re not counting this as one of our 10 because it’s obvious)


This is a big one and it’s the MOST obvious. You need to have your passport for pretty much everything in China, including train travel. Our top tip is to not only have your passport, but also photocopy your photo page and visa page. Then no matter what happens you’re never caught out.



Hotel Address Print Out


Although this isn’t directly linked to train travel, it is important to make sure you get to your destination once you disembark. Often, you’re tired and grouchy and all you want is a hot shower and a cup of tea in your hotel. Make sure you have the address in Chinese on your phone and printed on a piece of paper so you can jump in a cab and head straight there.


Tissues


We’re not going to get into the nitty-gritty here, but tissues are essential. Train bathrooms do not provide tissues, at all… So, remember to bring your own. 


Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes


Trains are not always the cleanest mode of transport. Although bullet trains are fast, clean and efficient, slow long-distance trains are often not. Make sure you bring hand sanitizer and wet wipes so you can freshen up on the journey. 



Dettol Wipes


Although this might seem like mass over-planning, trust us on this one: Dettol wipes can be a complete lifesaver. If you’re on a long-distance train (especially a sleeper) then you need to settle in. Having a pack of Dettol wipes means you can clean down your area, freshen up the hand rests and the table, thus leaving everything super fresh for snack time.


Snacks


There is nothing worse than being hungry on a long journey, and snacks help to pass the time. There are often food carts that travel up and down on trains but they can be infrequent and often have delicious snacks like vacuum packed tofu and chicken feet that don’t always appeal to westerners. Stock up on your snacks before you leave!



Noodles


Hot water is dispensed on all long-distance trains. If you know you’re going to be hungry, then grab a pot of instant noodles, add hot water and sit down for a yummy meal whenever you’re ready to eat.


Thermos and Tea/Coffee


Again, this is where the free hot water really comes up trumps. You can make yourself unlimited cups of tea and coffee if you have a thermos, tea bags, instant coffee and a spoon. 


Electronics


Obviously you’re going to want your phone/kindle/tablet/laptop for the journey. There are usually power sockets under/next to each seat on high-speed trains, whereas slow trains can be a hit or miss. Make sure all your devices are fully charged and you have a power bank as a backup to top you up as you go.



Neck Pillow


If you’re on a long journey then sleeping through it is often your best bet. Make sure you have a comfy travel neck pillow so you can avoid a cricked neck for the duration of your trip. That way, you arrive fresh and not all cramped up.


A Large Scarf or Small Blanket


This is our favorite top tip for long-distance train travel. A large scarf or small blanket have loads of uses. You can either use it as an extra pillow or as a blanket if you're chilly. Our favorite use for them, however, is as a privacy screen if you’re traveling on a sleeper train. You can tuck the scarf/blanket into the bunk above you and create a curtain. This means you’re not going to wake up gazing into the eyes of your neighbor, and no one is going to see you drool as you nap!



Related Articles

 



New High-Speed Train Brings Huangshan Two Hours Closer



China in A Week: Where to Go & What To See


您可能也对以下帖子感兴趣

文章有问题?点此查看未经处理的缓存