Journeying Europe's Night Express: My Grievous Blunder in a Two-Week Backpacking Adventure
In October 2022, a travel enthusiast embarked on an overnight train journey from Berlin to Vienna, operated by OBB Nightjet, as part of a two-week backpacking trip through four European countries by train. Little did they know, this experience would prove to be far from comfortable.
The author, who had previously spent 140 hours on trains in the USA and Europe, mostly in private compartments, found the seating car on the Nightjet train to be a significant letdown. The compartment was too small and lacked legroom, and the seat was not wide enough to lie completely flat, making it impossible for the author to get comfortable.
During the journey, there were five travelers in the author's compartment. Each seat had a small table that could be pushed out from the armrest, but no pillows or blankets were provided for guests in the seating car. Passengers had to take turns charging their phones at the two available outlets, as there were not enough power outlets for every passenger.
The seating car carriages were modernized in 2023, but the author still felt cramped and uncomfortable, unable to sleep throughout the night. The lack of privacy and the open shared seating area only added to the discomfort.
Upon arrival in Vienna at seven in the morning, the author was exhausted, having stayed awake until morning in the seating car. The author felt that the cost of a hotel room upon arrival was not worth it, considering the expensive night train ticket of 36.60 euros for a seating car accommodation.
Booking a sleeping car on Nightjet trains instead of a seating car for long-distance travel in Europe offers several key advantages. Sleeping cars provide beds or couchettes that allow passengers to lie down and get proper rest, unlike seating cars where you remain seated. This is especially valuable on long overnight journeys where a good night's sleep can make a big difference.
Sleeper cabins offer private or semi-private compartments, which give passengers more privacy compared to the open shared seating areas. This can contribute to a more relaxing and secure environment. Breakfast is often included in the ticket price or available from a more complete menu, enhancing convenience and comfort in the morning.
Sleeping cars can provide additional bedding or compartments that accommodate families or small groups comfortably, as evidenced by positive passenger reviews about extra bed linen and a good sleeping experience on Nightjet services. Luggage handling is also typically better in sleeping cars, offering better storage solutions and easier access to luggage compared to crowded seat cars.
In conclusion, opting for a sleeping car on Nightjet trains transforms long-distance overnight travel into a more restful, private, and convenient journey, turning the transit itself into a comfortable part of the European travel experience, rather than just a means to an end. The author will not book the cheapest accommodation on an overnight train again, and instead, will prioritize comfort and rest to ensure a more enjoyable travel experience.
- 'What a surprise,' the author thought, 'the science behind designing comfortable seating compartments seems to have eluded the OBB Nightjet industry.'
- 'Despite the sleep-enhancing benefits of health-and-wellness,' the author regretted not budgeting for a hotel room after the long, sleepless night on the train.
- 'The pursuit of low-cost travel often overlooks the importance of comfort,' the author realized, 'as the comfortable transportation options in the lifestyle industry often come with a higher price.'
- 'From now on,' the author decided, 'finance will be allocated to ensure comfortable sleep during travel, as it greatly impacts the overall travel experience.'
- 'Once settled in Vienna,' the author looked forward to exploring the city, appreciating the sights and experiences it offered, 'having saved energy and budget for the exciting journey ahead.'
