How To: Ride the Train

This isn't so much a philosophical entry as it is more of an actual bit of advice, so with that said, here it goes...

How do you ride the train? 

For the sake of time I'll throw the answer into a list, not a narrative, so it's easier to read...

1. Pack appropriately. Don't just consider the weather when you're packing your bags, keep in mind your mode of travel, where you can store your luggage while traveling, and how feasible it is to carry it around with you. Chances are you're not going to want to lug around a suitcase through the city, so pack light and smart in a bag that you wouldn't mind walking around with for a mile or two. Personally I prefer a hiking-type backpack or small duffel bag. 

2. Buy the cheaper stand up ticket if it's available. There's usually an extra seat or a "flip down" you can sneak into. If not, you've always got luggage holders on trains where you can sit and other random little places that others usually don't think of. Save the money and do the stand up.

3. Make sure you are all on time. We like to think that the train, bus, plain, etc will wait for us, but in reality it won't. You buy your ticket in advance which means you've already paid and the driver could probably care less if you're on the train or not because his company already has your money. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your mode of transportation so you're not stuck buying multiple tickets. 

4. Sleep when you can if traveling late, but don't forget to set an alarm or have a buddy wake you up. Unless you're traveling to the final destination of the train you're going to have to get off before the end of the line. So relax and sleep but just make sure that you've got a way to be woken up so you don't miss your turn to get off. 

5. You never know who you're going to run into or meet while traveling, so make sure you're dressed appropriately and comfortably. Your favorite dingy sweats and crocs probably aren't your best bet to be wearing while traveling. What if you bump into your boss, your worst enemy, or even an ex? What ind of image does that send about you? Make sure to take a little personal pride in your appearance while traveling. You'll find that you will almost feel refreshed when getting to your destination rather than feeling exhausted.