Traveling by Train With COPD

In the past, I have written an article about air travel with COPD but today I'd like to talk about train travel. We don't hear a lot about train travel but I think it's a great way to get around if you can't or don't want to fly.

COPD and train travel

When booking your train be sure to let them know of any disabilities that you may have. If you use a wheelchair/mobility device you can sit and ride in the train if you prefer but you can always use the train seats and store your device. If you are on oxygen let them know.

Either way, let them know that you need assistance with either transferring trains or getting off at your destination. They do have plug-ins for your portable oxygen but they ask that you have at least 4 hours of battery time in case of a power outage. I love the fact that you can keep your batteries charged on trains whereas in most airplanes you can not.

When paying for your trip, be sure to mention if you are 65 or over, it might be possible to get a discount. I was also able get an additional 10% off for my caregiver so if you have anyone traveling with you be sure to get them this discount if available.

When connecting to another train or at your final destination they do have accessible thruway bus services to other destinations. All coaches are accessible and lift-equipped.

I would like to suggest when you are out and about by the train either at the destination or transfers that you wear a mask. The fumes from the trains can be very overwhelming.

If you are on a long trip and will be having a meal while on board you can schedule ahead of time for your meal to be brought to you. I could bring my food aboard and eat it in my seat or room but you could not bring your food to the cafe cars on the train that I was on.

Alternative menu items are also available for those with special food requirements. You may also bring your beverages but they ask you to leave any alcoholic beverages to be only drunk in your sleeping room if you have one. If you have any meds that need to be kept cool, they do have ice for your cooler.

Navigating travel with oxygen

I have only traveled once on a train since using oxygen but I enjoyed the trip. It wasn't long, only a 145-mile trip from where I live to the Chicago Union Station.

I started at the train station 20 minutes from my house with three other companions. We had an Alpha-1 education day to attend and none of us wanted to drive in the Chicago traffic.

It wasn't a bad trip at all until we got to Union Station there in Chicago. The fumes from all the trains at the station were awful so, again, I highly recommend a mask for transfer out there.

In all, it was a fun trip. We loved being able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as someone else took care of the navigation. I think if I had to choose between the two, flying or train, I think train travel is the most convenient but it can be hard on the lungs at the train station and so can the fumes from an airplane.

Have you ever taken or considered taking a train before? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.