I love train travel. I splurge and get a sleeper compartment so I have space all by myself.
I can only tell you what I packed for my train trip – your interests probably are very different from mine.
Also, part of my train travel was along some scenic stretches and I found I was content to watch out the window in my compartment for large stretches (to my great surprise!) and just let my mind wander.
My packing list:
1. Quilting (Or knitting or crochet—whatever you like that’s crafty.) I found sewing to be the perfect activity while on the train. I could easily look up – and hand sewing is less engrossing than say, reading or watching a movie on my ipad.
2. iPad, Kindle, iPhone – electronic gadgets to play games, read and watch movies when I wanted to.. I used these mainly once it got too dark to see outside my window on the train.
3. Book light – a little hand held light / penlight is helpful—because if you drop something on the floor it can be hard to find in the dark.
4. Journal & pen
5. Trail mix (nuts & chocolate pieces), Pringles (small can couldn’t get smooshed), some cookies. I also brought my own tea bags. My train had a dining car and snacks & drinks were available—but I prefer my own tea. Might be good to bring a water bottle that you can fill & refill with your beverage of choice.
6. Sudoku or Crossword puzzles & pencils (if you like those)
One last tip.. when I boarded my trains the purser would ask what time I wanted to take meals in the dining car. I quickly learned the earlier time slots are best. This way you have first choice at the entrees (they don’t run out of what you wanted to eat) and are more likely to have a table to yourself. (Though they may ask you to share – and that can be fun, too.)
Last but not least – if you’re sensitive to noises and think it’ll help you sleep you might want to bring some ear plugs or noise canceling headphones.
To me 36 hours to “play” and stare out the window sounds dreamy..
Good luck & hope you enjoy your travels.