I spent 53 hours in a bedroom on an Amtrak train for $2,200 and made 5 mistakes
Business Insider
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Spending 53 hours on Amtrak's California Zephyr from Chicago to California was an expensive but memorable journey, costing $2,200 for a private bedroom with a bathroom. The author shares five key mistakes they made during their trip, offering valuable insights for frequent travelers.
First, bringing a ukulele as entertainment proved problematic due to thin walls and noise concerns. Instead of playing music, the author found alternative activities like reading and gaming on a Nintendo Switch. This highlights the importance of considering surroundings when choosing travel entertainment.
Second, packing extra toiletries was unnecessary since Amtrak provides them. The experience taught the author to reduce luggage and save space—and money—for future trips.
Third, not removing toilet paper before showering led to moisture issues. It’s a small detail but crucial for avoiding inconvenience in tight train spaces.
Fourth, failing to plan observation car visits during scenic moments was
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Originally published on Business Insider on 3/3/2026