I spent 77 hours traveling from California to DC by train. It was worth it, but there are a few things everyone should know before hitting the rails for a long ride.

• I took Amtrak trains from California to Washington, DC, which took 77 hours over four days.
• Bring a book, pillow, coat, and snacks, but there will be hot water for instant meals and tea.
• If the observation car is too crowded, try grabbing a spot right below it to take in the views. 

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.