I spent 53 hours on an Amtrak train. Here's what I'm glad I packed, wish I'd brought, and should have left at home.

Joey Hadden recently spent 53 hours on Amtrak's California Zephyr, the longest train ride in the US, traveling from Illinois to California. As an experienced overnight train traveler, Hadden had packed thoughtfully, but he still made some mistakes and regrets.

For his 3-day and 2-night journey, Hadden brought a carry-on suitcase and a backpack, adhering to Amtrak's allowance of two carry-on bags, two checked bags, and one personal item at no extra fee. Since sleeper cars in the California Zephyr have showers, he packed waterproof clogs and slippers for comfort and hygiene. He also brought toiletries, such as skincare and mouthwash, to maintain his cleanliness and feel comfortable during the long journey.

Hadden brought various activities to keep himself entertained during the long ride, including a Nintendo Switch with games, a book about train travel, and a spiral pad for drawing, journaling, and poetry. However, he regretted bringing the noisy instruments, as noise was restricted in the sleeper car, and there was no WiFi on the train. He downloaded movies and shows on his phone for entertainment, which he found more convenient than bringing his iPad for a larger screen.

The most scenic aspect of the California Zephyr is its route through the wilderness, so Hadden was glad to bring his cameras and lenses to capture the passing landscape. He wished he had brought a pair of binoculars, as the route took them through the wilderness, and he missed the opportunity to spot wildlife like eagles, hawks, geese, and moose. Overall, Hadden learned valuable lessons about packing for a long-distance Amtrak journey and the importance of considering noise limits and entertainment options during the trip.