Before you depart on your trip, prepare for a hassle-free experience by knowing how to pack smartly. There are no weight limits when it comes to your luggage, but just keep in mind that where you go, your luggage goes. Just because traveling by train means you get to bypass airlines' luggage restrictions, it doesn’t mean you should overpack.

The reality is that you’ll probably be hopping on and off trains regularly. And you’ll walk with whatever luggage you choose to bring more than you think you will. The lighter the better. Also, it’s important to check your luggage allowances with your airline if you plan on flying at any time during your train vacation.