After spending hundreds of hours on Amtrak trains, I always prepare for 5 mishaps that can make journeys more difficult

I've taken long-haul Amtrak trains around the US, so I've encountered my fair share of problems. Here's how I prepare for trips to make them easier.

I've spent 128 hours on overnight Amtrak trips. I wish I had known 10 things before stepping aboard.

I spent 60 hours on Amtrak trains between NYC and Miami, 15 on one from Denver to Salt Lake City, and 53 hours on the longest train ride in the US.