Travelling on The Trans-Siberian Railway is a unique experience that is on most people’s bucket list, and for good reason, as you are slowly taken through some of the most amazing landscapes our blue planet has to offer. However, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is best enjoyed alongside some serious preparation, and with that in mind, here are some must have items to include when you pack.
- The Right Luggage – This is crucial, as many luggage types are simply not suited to long distance rail travel, and wheels are always an advantage, especially on train platforms. While you don’t want an explorer’s backpack, anything too bulky will cause you problems, and expect your luggage to get knocked about, as is the case with this long train journey. Your luggage should have adequate locking, for obvious reasons, and if you are taking your laptop, a suitable hard case is the best solution. The Internet can provide you with high quality Trans Siberian express holidays and tours, and with their expertise, you can be sure of a holiday to remember forever.
- Buy a Messenger Bag – This can be used for all your devices and gadgets, along with the charging cables and power banks that will ensure you have a working camera at all times, and if you are the proud owner of a digital SLR camera, then bring suitable protection, as well as many SD cards and batteries. The modern messenger bag is designed with hi-techies in mind, and there will be zipper pockets for passport, money, and any documentation, giving you a place to store all your valuables, and this bag should not leave your side under any circumstances. If you would like to read about one intrepid traveller’s adventures on the Trans-Siberian Railway, there is an interesting blog that makes for entertaining reading and will prepare you a little for the experience.
- Clothing – Traveling on the Trans-Siberian Railway is similar to packing for backpacking around the world. The unique thing about this part of the world, is that you could experience anything between -30C and +30C, depending on the time of year you visit. If ever there is a time for multi-layer clothing, this is it, and we can learn from the locals, who have thin, but warm items that they can add to their attire, as and when needed. Take a pair of flip-flops for train wear, as this is both comfortable and accepted, while you will need a pair of hiking boots in the winter, or a good pair of outdoor shoes in the summer.
- Basic First Aid Kit – It makes sense to take a comprehensive first aid kit, and modern designs take up little space and contain everything you might need. Due to the remoteness of this region, you can never be too well prepared, and accidents are more likely to occur in unfamiliar terrain. If you are unsure about the contents, there is a useful guide on what to include in a first aid kit that you can find online.
In order to get the most out of this unique opportunity, planning is essential, and with the help of the tour operator, you can be sure to have everything you need to help make the trip even more enjoyable.