Preparing for the train

Valid Photo Identification Required for Adults

Amtrak customers 18 years of age and older must produce valid photo identification when:
Obtaining, exchanging or refunding tickets
Storing baggage at stations
Checking baggage
Sending Amtrak Express shipments
Onboard trains, in response to a request by an Amtrak employee

Please note that unaccompanied children 15 and older must also produce valid photo ID when purchasing tickets.

Motion Sickness

What I have read is that if you are prone to motion sickness you can get motion sickness on the train but not as likely as a boat or plane.

What to bring to Washington, D.C.

You may bring 2 carry-on bags of no more than 50 pounds each – one should be a backpack that you can use as we tour the city, the other should be carry-on size and easy to roll or carry.

Bring the following for the train:

·       One sweatshirt or sweater

·       Book or magazine to read, electronic games, music, writing utensils

·       Wallet with personal identification card.

·       Lunch

·       Snack

·       Dinner

There is a snack car, but it may not meet your needs. It provides carryout style food service, featuring soup and salad, pizza, sandwiches and other snacks and beverages. We will not provide funds for food on the train to D.C.

·       You might also choose to bring: cards, sketchbook, travel games, cell phone and charger

On the train, seats recline and have reading lights, but there are very few outlets to charge your electronic devices.

Pack the following in a small suitcase with wheels (you will be taking it on the Metro and walking a couple of blocks with it):

·       Comfortable, light-weight, appropriate clothing for touring the city (shorts or skirt, short-sleeved/sleeveless shirts) – 2 day’s worth

·       One pair of long pants

·       One rain jacket

·       One pair of sneakers

·       Underwear, toiletries (deodorant, toothbrush, comb or hairbrush, etc.) You might bring one toothpaste, sunscreen and shampoo for the group

·       Sunglasses

·       Comfortable clothing for the train home.

You might also choose to bring:

·       Comfortable, supportive sandals (flip-flops are not recommended for touring the city)

·       Cap

·       Food for snacking