I spent 77 hours traveling from California to DC by train. It was worth it, but there are things everyone should know before any long ride.

"I took Amtrak trains from California to Washington, DC, which took me 77 hours over four days. Consider bringing your own snacks, and know you can request hot water for instant meals and tea. Be careful booking tight layovers, and make sure to bring blankets and a coat so you can bundle up. A few years ago, when flight prices were awfully expensive, I saw an Amtrak ticket from California to Washington, DC, for just $250 and snapped it up."

"First, I hopped on the California Zephyr for a 53-hour ride from Emeryville to Chicago. Then, I transferred to the Cardinal line, which took me through the Appalachian Mountains to the nation's capital in 24 hours. I'd traveled by train numerous times before, but there were still some aspects of the experience that surprised me - and some parts that I was glad I was prepared for. Bring snacks, especially if you're not a fan of the options in the café car."

An Amtrak trip from California to Washington, DC lasted 77 hours over four days, using the California Zephyr to Chicago (53 hours) and the Cardinal to Washington (24 hours). The ticket cost $250 when flights were expensive. Travelers should bring snacks and request hot water for instant meals or tea. Tight layovers can be risky, so schedule generous connections. Bring blankets and a coat for warmth. The café car offers some vegetarian options, but passengers who are vegan or have dietary restrictions should pack their own food. Buying snacks beforehand, such as granola bars and fruit, prevented hunger during sold-out café service.

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