Hello Reader, it is Kev again!

Welcome back! I hope you're having a great week! This week, I have a shopping guide and good news for those using the Lake Shore Limited!

The Amtrak Traveler’s Gift Guide: Under $25

Shopping for an Amtrak traveler can be challenging, and if you're one yourself, you might not always know what to ask for. Train travel is different from other trips. Long hours sitting, unpredictable temperatures, limited outlets, and nights on the move create specific needs.

This guide can help you decide what to give or ask for this holiday season.

The Travel Pillow ($15–25)

Non-negotiable for coach overnight travel. Most people don’t realize how much a good pillow improves sleep on a moving seat. For coach travel, a compact blow-up pillow is an excellent choice because it's lighter and easier to pack than fabric options.

If they’re a sleeper passenger, consider using a flat blow-up pillow that can give you some height for side sleepers. I often wish I had one more pillow, and the Amtrak ones are not that thick. I have a pillow similar to this.

Compression Socks ($12–20)

Train travel involves hours of sitting with little movement. Good circulation is more important on those long coast-to-coast trips than most people realize, and it can significantly reduce fatigue.

Modern compression socks now come in a variety of colors and patterns—no longer just medical beige. They're practical, comfortable, and your gift recipient will use them on every long journey.

A Power Solution ($10–25)

Outlets on Amtrak trains are limited and sometimes don't work. For coach passengers, a good extension cord with multiple outlets ($8–15). This gift solves the problem of the outlet being against the wall while you're in the aisle seat.

For sleeper passengers, one outlet in the room makes an extension cord essential if they're bringing a laptop or multiple devices. Use a UL-listed cord; if grounded outlets are needed, a simple power strip ($10–20) works as well.

Alternatively, a portable charger (20,000+ mAh, $15–25) is a lower-commitment choice—keeping phones, tablets, and earbuds charged during multi-day trips when outlets aren't available.

Quality Earbuds or Noise-Canceling Headphones ($15–25)

Hours of scenery can get boring if you’re watching in silence. Podcasts, audiobooks, and music are essential for train downtime. If you're in coach, noise-canceling headphones help block out the car noise and motion. You don’t need to spend a lot, a solid budget options are available from brands like Anker or Soundcore.

A Lightweight Packable Blanket ($15–25)

Sleeping car blankets are usually enough, but smart travelers bring their own because train temperatures can fluctuate and Amtrak's climate control is unpredictable. A sarong-style travel blanket works well for some because it folds small, can be worn as a scarf or used as a privacy screen, and gives passengers more control over their comfort during overnight trips.

Bonus: I use one to help secure luggage. I put it over my belongings, then staple it to secure everything in place if a zipper pops open during the journey.

Ebook/Audiobook Credits ($0–25)

Long trips mean many hours to pass. An Audible credit or a physical book they’ve mentioned wanting gives them something to do that doesn’t rely on a phone battery or internet. For reading on the train, lighter books work better than thick novels—mysteries, travel essays, or memoirs are easier to put down and pick up. This can also apply to movies, TV shows, and documentaries.

Travel Games or Cards ($10–20)

Whether traveling with family, friends, or as a solo traveler, cards or small travel games are essential. Trains promote social interaction. Downtime in the lounge or dining car often turns into game time. A good deck of cards is compact and suitable for everyone.

Amtrak Gear & Gift Cards ($5–25)

Quality Amtrak-branded items, such as mugs, hats, shirts, and pins, appeal to enthusiasts and make practical gifts. Amtrak’s store offers solid options. If you're looking for something more functional, an Amtrak gift card is perfect for someone planning a specific trip and helps offset ticket costs.

The Lake Shore Limited is Back on the Tracks

Amtrak has officially resumed direct rail service on the Lake Shore Limited between Boston and Albany after a landslip caused a few months of bus replacements. For the nearly 80,000 passengers who travel this route each year, it's a welcome return to real train travel.

Train 449 departs Boston at 12:50 p.m. and arrives in Albany at 6:10 p.m. Meanwhile, Train 448 goes in the opposite direction, leaving Albany at 3:27 p.m. and arriving in Boston at 8:32 p.m. The train also makes a stop in Pittsfield if you're heading to the Berkshires.

If you're planning a trip to either city, you can now take the train instead of the bus.

What has Kev been up to?

This week has been slow, and that's okay. My area received over 10 inches of snow this weekend. The scenery looks beautiful, but I'm almost tired of dealing with it. If I want to use the back door or go to the garage, I have some shoveling to do. The good part is, my neighbors and I took turns shoveling the sidewalk and driveway apron, so we didn't have to do all of it at once.

Apart from that, I am working on a few new articles in my Amtrak in (a state) series. This project is taking longer than expected, and that's frustrating.

Aside from that, I am preparing for my silent films, on which I will be accompanying them on the organ in a few weeks.

Lastly, I sent postcards to my Patreon members. Do you want one? Why not join?

Looking at the Markers

Interested in supporting this work? Check out my Patreon or other support options, or hit the green button below.

Can't contribute right now? No problem—just sharing this with fellow travelers helps more than you know!

Until Next Week…

Safe travels & Happy Planning,
Kev Monteith