Train Travel With Claustrophobia

Although the Golden Age of rail travel is long gone in the United States, train travel is still a common means of transportation in many countries. Even in the U.S., many are drawn to the romance and adventure of riding the rails. If you have claustrophobia, however, you may wonder whether you can handle being confined to a train. Fortunately, the reality of train travel is different than you may have imagined.

Planning Your Trip

In the United States, fewer people choose to travel by train than by airplane or car. Those that choose trains generally tend to be friendly, patient and easygoing. Most passenger trains are not entirely full, offering more opportunity to spread out and relax. The exception is commuter trains such as the high speed Acela Express, which tend to be packed with business travelers during rush hour.

Therefore, not as much advance planning is required for a train trip as for a flight. If you are not taking the train to a major event such as a Presidential Inauguration or Superbowl, you should be able to purchase tickets just days in advance.

You will need to decide whether you want to travel in coach seating or rent a sleeping compartment. Coach seats are far different than those found on planes, offering ample leg room and a wider configuration. In addition, the seats on Amtrak trains rotate 180 degrees to face backward. If you are on an uncrowded train overnight, just turn the empty seat ahead of you around. Put up your leg rest and place your feet on the other seat. This will allow you to fully recline.

A sleeping compartment is more expensive, but offers privacy. Depending on the specific train, accommodations range from two-person roomettes to bedroom suites that sleep four. During the day, your beds will be converted to comfortable private seating. In the evening, the bedding will be arranged by your room attendant. Some room styles include a private toilet and shower. Keep in mind that on a train, space is at a premium. Even the largest sleeping compartment is quite small, and may lead to increased anxiety in those with claustrophobia. Nonetheless, some people like the ability to escape the crowd and retreat into private quarters.

At the Station

Train stations range from tiny platforms in small towns to massive multi-level buildings that rival airports in their range of amenities. If large crowds increase your anxiety, consider driving to a nearby small town to catch your train.

Although trains, like planes, are highly secure today, the process of going through Security feels different than it does at the airport. Perhaps due to the smaller crowds, screening appears less obtrusive or invasive. The time required is also shorter, allowing you to arrive at the train station as little as 30 minutes before departure. Of course, if you are leaving from a downtown station on a busy travel day, you will need to allow more time.

All Aboard

Whether you choose coach seating or a sleeping compartment, you will find plenty of opportunities for distraction on a train trip. Whether you visit the dining car for a full meal in an elegant yet casual setting, share drinks with new friends at the bar, visit the smoking lounge or simply sit and watch the world go by, you will not be restricted to your seat.

• Dining Car – Depending on your specific train and ticketing arrangements, meals may or may not be included in the ticket price. Either way, the dining car is well worth a visit. Choose a later dining time to avoid the crowds.

• Lounges – Some lounges permit smoking, while others are smoke-free. Whichever your preference, these cars generally offer picture windows and comfortable seating. This is a great place to play cards, read a book or chat with fellow travelers. There is enough lounge space that rooms are rarely crowded.

• Bar Car – Most trains offer a bar car, which may or may not be crowded, depending on the preferences of your fellow travelers. This can be a good place to relax, but be careful to avoid self-medicating with alcohol.

• Quiet Car – By nature, many people who travel by train are jovial and friendly. If your claustrophobia is worsened by protracted contact with strangers, this may make you uncomfortable. Many trains offer a quiet car, specifically designated for those travelers who want to work, read or nap undisturbed. If you become overwhelmed, make your way to this car which, even if crowded, will permit you to sit quietly and regroup.

Coping Strategies

Unlike an aircraft, on the train you will not be confined to your seat. When you board, drop off any bags at your seat or compartment and then go for an exploratory walk. Locate the various specialty cars. Find the restrooms and dining options. Having a mental map will be invaluable if you start to feel anxious or overwhelmed.

Your fellow passengers will be doing the same thing. Within the first hour or so on board, people will have begun to congregate in the areas that make them most comfortable. You will be able to stake out a specific location or two to use as your retreat and comfort.

Train staff is generally friendly and extremely helpful. If you experience a panic attack or need any assistance at all, do not hesitate to ask.

Bring plenty of distractions. A movie may be shown on board, and some routes feature park rangers or other experts who provide guided narration, but in general passengers are responsible for their own entertainment. Bring an iPod, DVD player, laptop computer, deck of cards, book or other personal entertainment device.

Traveling by train is a wonderful way to see the countryside. Although train travel presents unique challenges for those with claustrophobia, with a bit of foreknowledge and planning there is no reason that you should not enjoy your trip.