Cross Country Train Trip Day 1 - Boarding the California Zephyr at Union Station in Chicago, IL

[@CSX8607RailProductions]

The railfan community has been summoned.

[@TheCarpetbagger]

Happy to have you “all aboard”

[@antoniobelmontez-jh6xw]

​@@TheCarpetbagger not poking fun at Jacob's sideburns but when is the year of annoying facial hair

[@aprilgreggjean-louis2795]

I have the same sleep machine

[@RyanMarvin-gu1ri]

@@TheCarpetbagger SOME WHERE IN YOUR VIDEO TRAIN DID PASS Osceola IOWA

[@filipohman7277]

Awesome , Greetings from Finland🇫🇮🇺🇸🇫🇮🇺🇸

[@iamprivate18]

This trip takes the end tag line of “train on the track” to a whole new level! Safe travels TCB!

[@missjackalope567]

I'm watching this on the California zephyr right now. I feel the pain for the lack of train merch. Glad to see you showing the trains off!

[@angelarowe3472]

Jacob you’re doing something that I wanted to do for the most part of my life. This looks like a real good trip for you and I hope that it always stays that way throughout your adventures. Thank you for sharing this and thank you for videoing it and taking me along, you take care and be safe and enjoy.🫶🏻❤️🤠

[@maryblaufuss7533]

My father was a train guy...all types of trains. He loved to go Amtrak. One thing that he was always impressed with was that security with luggage is tight. No luggage pirating! You must show your claim check before luggage is released to you.

[@DebHoeft]

Everytime you say trains, plains and automobiles I think of John Candy. Be safe and have fun Looking forward to this adventure all year long.

[@Helene_M2019]

Jacob absolutely LOVED this video, seeing all the aspects of "train life" your cabin, the dining car, sightseeing car, I loved every minute. You will love being able to sit and watch everything as opposed to driving. So excited about this train trip thank you for taking us along, so very much appreciate what you do for us!!! I have never thought about taking a train trip before, you have changed that in one video. Now I just want to go and do it. Thank you!!!

[@glom_gazingo]

I did this route back in Oct. 2007 when I was 20 years old.. was so much fun! Loved the viewing cart. Thanks for the memory refresh!

[@kigsbiker]

Excited to see this new chapter of the Carpetbagger channel! 😁

[@RoundSeal]

My first vid of yours - I've never been to America and have always been really curious about the cross-country rail-lines like this! Looking forward to keeping up with this journey and checking out other vids. 🚄

[@jduke1291]

Wow Everyone is enjoying these fun train videos Thanks for letting us all go along with you I love all of your Great videos My family watches you every day you post a video we watch as a family during supper ❤❤

[@FrankensteinLover]

What a fun and different journey. I'm sure being on a train is a breath of fresh air and so much fun. Keep making forever Memories.

[@bruss529]

Well I think anyone familiar with your channel would see how happy this train trip has made you. We can see that you are really enjoying this.

[@michaelmedlen]

you've done your planes, automobiles and now your trains..love it,i hope you enjoy your train trip Jacob... ALL ABOARD..

[@mikehughes4969]

Well, we're off. Nice to see Union Station again, however briefly. I really liked how you showed the long shots of the countryside and towns you were going through. All of those houses have people in them, and you are seeing a perspective on their home that they have never seen. Or may ever see. Which is pretty amazing when you think about it. Great beginning, my friend.

[@SamsTrains]

This is one of my favourite videos you’ve ever done - and not just because I like trains… love it!

[@JoeJoyHaveLanded]

Safe travels. This is incredible. You are always an inspiration. The fact that you step out of your comfort zone for new life experiences is great. Thank you for years of great content.

[@sarahmijares3292]

Really appreciate this Jacob! New Year, New Adventures, New Bag!

[@boogiedaddy3434]

Yay! I can't wait to see your adventures on the California Zephyr. Thank you for taking us all with you!

[@pennysworld1317]

My son in law works at Amtrak in Beech Grove Indiana. I noticed when you walked at the front of the train it said Beech Grove Very cool. Have fun and safe travels

[@Js77226]

I’ve taken the train from Boston to California and it was far and away my favorite way to travel. Excited to watch your adventures. Have fun!

[@CarolynArbochus]

I am reliving my train trip on the California Zephyr with you. I went out west in 2007, almost 18 years ago. Would love to tell you about my adventure with my sister. We come from a railroading family both sides. My dad was a conductor on the Phoebe Snow. Spent many years riding the rails with mom and dad from Scranton, PA to Hoboken, NJ. Wonderful memories. Enjoy the rest of your trip, I'll be right there with you. Thanks for the experience!

[@hannahrae7956]

A fabulous idea, Jacob! Looking forward to more of your railway adventures!

[@arnicamontana6222]

Best wishes for a wonderful adventure & safe travels

[@TheCarpetbagger]

Thank you so much!

[@Gemashke]

Great video, Jacob. This train trip is going to be great! Have a safe and enjoyable journey, Sir!!

[@jennifercolligan3085]

We took the autotrain to Florida in 77, and loved it, i remember my sister and I drinking a bunch of coffee and exploring every inch. I was 9 and she was 7.

[@67Redwolf]

Thanks for taking us on your adventure. Have fun and enjoy all the views.

[@mollysmith1226]

My husband and I rode the train from Chicago to Denver in 2021. This is so fun!! Love seeing all of this again

[@TheCarpetbagger]

I’m really enjoying the trip

[@mollysmith1226]

@TheCarpetbagger how did your cpap work last night?

[@BrandonWendt-s1z]

I was really excited when you said you were going on a train trip I can tell you’re really excited lol trains are fun and I look forward to watching your travels. Have a great time.!!

[@kristaseyler654]

Ok now I wanna take a train trip !! Did it once with my family when I was a kid !! It was a blast !! We went to salt Lake city Utah stayed over night then left the next day ! Going through the mountains was awesome maybe do the Alaskan train some day !! Have fun Jacob 🎉❤😊

[@OtterSara]

Fantastic video, Jacob. I am an avid train rider here in Germany. And despite its downsides (German Railway is a messy mess...), the rides themselves are just fun, because you can lean back and enjoy the landscape going by. I find very relaxing. And I was already checking Amtrak for their offers, as I play with the idea of discovering America by train myself. So, your video gives amazing impressions. I also like the idea of checking out the towns next to the train stops.

[@kristencarlbon4561]

And the best part Jacob if there’s a snowstorm, they keep going. Nothing stopped the train no measly snow or ice storm.

[@bradsbrain]

I always thought Id never want to take a train trip until watching this and now I think thislooks like a really relaxing way to travel. I think Ill do this at least once when I retire.

[@absentsnz]

I did the same Amtrak train from Portland Oregon to Chicago. My mom and I did this trip before she passed. I had always been in love with the idea of traveling by train with sleeper cars. (definitely not as cool now as it was back in the 30s) such a sweet adventure she made possible for us to enjoy.

[@dianeclark3347]

Often considered this. Can't wait to see how it all works out for you. Safe travels and happy train adventures!

[@AnaGonzalez-yo9iz]

Hi Carpetbagger! Wow this train trip is amazing! Although I did get a little dizzy while looking out the window! Looking out the window at night is so cool.The train used to pass right in front of my childhood home too

[@ericson0504]

It was so fun seeing you so excited! I wish Amtrak was a more widely used mode in the US, it’s fun learning about it. The full room would be fun to try in a trip if Jen came with. Really enjoying the start of the “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles” year!

[@retrowaifu]

the endless possibilities that trains bring to the table makes me very excited for the future of this channel!!

[@Foxymorris9236]

if your stopping in Sacramento, California i recommend you visit the railroad museum that has the old #5 California Zephyr

[@TheCarpetbagger]

I may not be able to this trip but will definitely look into it next time I’m in the area

[@Introvertedtravelerr]

Honestly this trip is on my list to do in the next few years.

[@syedhamidi5643]

😭 i watch this channel for a long time and i never thought that one day i will see you travelling in trains. Love every moments of it ❤

[@Retromicky82]

American trains are always huge and I love the viewing carriage. You get to see some towns or areas you may not have known before.

[@sayitskay]

Yes, that would be super fun to see you get off at every stop and explore each area. Hopefully train rides will be a future thing for you. I absolutely love them myself.

[@shanedigby]

Awesome video Mr Carpetbagger. Thanks for keeping it real!

[@CARTOON-Fan95]

Open the top bunk and put your things on it, when you close it, all your stuff will be in the space between the wall and bed. My grandpa does that when he travels in his semi for work.

[@suemoo22]

You look so happy, I hope you have a great time!

[@lisawelch9788]

No WiFi!?!? lol😂

[@RobinLuvdWilliam]

I enjoyed this train ride, Jacob. Thank you! 😊

[@angelgirlny4256]

I am enjoying this train adventure. I get to see what it is like through you. Thank you so much for sharing with us. I hope you have a great time. Hugs ❤

[@madebykemo]

Here is for a Diet Coke on the journey! I have started to VLOG a little bit myself and you are my main inspirations. Safe journey and maybe just maybe, I’ll see you around the San Francisco Bay 🤙

[@TheCarpetbagger]

I appreciate it

[@suzanneochs1543]

How fun !! This train trip is on my bucket list !! So glad you are experiencing it !

[@robylove9190]

I'm glad you're having a good time. I hope the rest of your trip is as fun.

[@nickroth9263]

Have A Great Time!

[@Jay-Dee]

This would also nice to do in the summer. When the days are longer and the nature is growing.

[@slytheringingerwitch]

I love a train trip. The last time I was on a longer journey, I went from London to Paris on the Eurostar. It was cool. Hope you have a good time Jacob.

[@genageeraert8039]

I’m excited for this new adventure

[@pattyhoskins5099]

I've never been on a train, this is going to be cool. Thank You Carpetbagger 💜🕊💜

[@user-he1pp9gh1l]

Amazing Vlog! I ❤ trains! When I lived in England. I took Britrail to Scotland! I have already taken the Eurorail from Paris to Italy! Many Train trips through the US! It is just wonderful way to travel!!

[@loriwalker5922]

This looks like so much fun. I have always wanted to take a train cross country. Safe travels Jacob!

[@richieloneelk]

That is so cool!! I need to ride a train this year. I don’t know why I haven’t.

[@henrys3629]

Best idea you ever had. No car in San Fransisco. I been on the Empire Builder on "coach" you car roam around etc. etc. etc. The boarding process 12? years ago was painless.

[@elizabethmckenna5397]

I can honestly say that traveling by train is on my bucket list. Maybe one day after I retire. Enjoy this adventure. It looks great! Just be very careful in San Francisco. Please be aware of your surroundings.

[@jaredbrockman9316]

Excited to watch all your train travels Jacob! This seems like such a cool experience, wish I could dedicate the time needed to take a trip like this!

[@dianaboggs2140]

I love this! I took the Amtrak from Tampa, FL to Charlotte, NC and back and I was in coach. I definitely would like to try the roomette next time. Safe travels Jacob!☺️🚆

[@STho205]

Pricey...be warned. A travel agent can often get you cheaper tickets than Amtrak offers OTC. They'll also recommend hotels close to the stations where you don't have to rent a car/Uber...but still won't get shot. Amtrak stops are often in pretty bad areas in larger cities.

[@cmiller4171]

30 plus years ago we rode the train from Toledo,OH to Florida. We had a sleeper car. Alot has changed since then. Back then they had a train car designated for smokers. Too funny. Hubby and I are really excited to journey with you! Stay safe! Enjoy!

[@keyganhake5376]

It was awesome seeing you going through sandwich Illinois such a funny name for a town

[@ChrisGentry-e9z]

Hey just be careful while you're out in California there's is an out of control fire consuming LA right now and there's barely any water left to fight the fires due to years of bad management there. Be safe. I do enjoy your videos.

[@edo0girl2.03]

California is a lot more than LA. San Francisco is nowhere near there and has its own reservoirs so there's nothing for him to worry about. I do agree that our stupid governor made a series of very bad decisions over the years, I doubt anyone here is happy with him right now.

[@JeffC-fq1be]

30:41. FYI, locomotive 79 is mostly providing hotel power for the train - the electricity for the kitchens, cars, lights, heat, etc. That's why is sounded loud at that stop. It has to generate all the electricity needed. It is also used for motive power in the mountains and as needed but its power is limited. I won't bore you with the details. At 30:45 that noise you hear is the air compressor starting in the first locomotive. That's a GE thing.

[@EsmeGrubb]

I've not gone cross country on a train, but I've watched videos about it. It seems figuring out the best way to sleep is one of the challenges. The roomette was deemed the best for the price in one video I watched because it didn't bounce and shake as much when sleeping. But it's an individual decision. The trains seldom stop for more than 10 or 15 minutes or less. So if you need to stretch your legs, you have to be quick about it. I think the top level is the best. You have a beautiful dining car and the other observation car was nice. I look forward to following you on your journey.

[@Imjustkev2024]

This is on my bucket list, looking forward to seeing the rest of your trip. I’m like you, boarding the train is sooo much less stressful to flying. Have started taking the train more to places instead of flying.

[@jessicarinehart5250]

I love seeing the joy in your face as you try something new. Also, yay the crocs are back! Croctastic!

[@TheCarpetbagger]

Just switched top shoes for snow and rain

[@IanOconnor-o7j]

This looks like a cool trip! Looking forward to the coming videos

[@debhanzlik540]

Great start Jacob. Love the train idea! I want to do this with my husband 😊 and maybe some grandchildren 😊

[@victoriacasanova4468]

This video makes me so happy. I love seeing Jacob genuinely excited to just experience America rushing by. I traveled a ton on trains around England back in 2023 and it's absolutely my favourite mode of transport. I'm really looking forward to these videos!!

[@roberthennel]

I have the best memories of train trips. With my parents, we lived in the capital of our (European) country and for the first 20 years of my life, every single Friday we took a train ride of about 60 miles to my moms home town, where my grandma and aunt lived (now my parents are both retired and moved there to live with the aunt, small town of about 20,000) for the weekend and the same trip back on Sunday. Train trips have become embedded in my memory. Even now, whenever I travel across our (small) country to the second biggest city for business (a trip of about 250 miles / 5 hours), I opt for the first class train ride. Its comfortable, I can work, there is wifi for the most part of the trip and in my country, it doesnt cost that much at all (single trip costs about 25 dollars). Enjoy your ride(s) Jacob.

[@paulfuryes203]

That looks like a lot of fun. Enjoy your trip till the next one, take care, my friend and as always safe travels.

[@GettingOutInLife]

This is definitely one of my bucket list items, and I am enjoying the heck out of this adventure. It is awesome that you jumped in with both feet. Please, don’t forget to tip your attendant and wait staff.

[@carriekoll8666]

I’ve done the Southwest Chief and the Zephyr. We love idea stopping at the small towns. We live in Galesburg area there are lots of stuff to see in the area Peoria isn’t far. Many quirky places to visit.

[@Elyse1222]

I took the auto train years ago. It was a great way to travel. Haven't been on one since. Might have to rethink that for future. Thanks for sharing!

[@Nancy-iv1yj]

I have never been on a train. Looks like a nice way to travel. Thanks Carpetbagger.

[@vincentschmitt7597]

Train in the Distance-Paul Simon. "Evertbody loves the sound of a train in the distance ",

[@kathleenpreuss]

How very exciting!!! Can't wait to learn more about your cross country train adventure. Keep on post'n.

[@janicelabuda8540]

Great vlog of your Amtrak adventure!

[@Tammyfrom1972]

So excited for you. I just watched Nomadic Introvert on her train ride. It was kind of a mess, but she stayed positive. Love your content. ☺ Happy travels!

[@JLsage]

I watched that too. She had a heck of a time. 😮 She was definitely positive though. I’d just die. Ha

[@normanshute7162]

Jacob you will definitely enjoy the Empire Builder,the sights are stunning especially the Rockies. Been on that train a few times and you’ll spend most of your time in the observation car. Your roomette ticket includes food and drinks.

[@cherylzamule888]

Thank you so much , Jacob, for taking us along ❤

[@matthewfarmer2520]

Morning Jacob 🤓📸 🚂🚃🚃🚃🚃 train adventure, thanks for sharing this. This is going to be something different and existing. Safe travels.

[@Savagemister]

That looks fun. I've wanted to take a train ride like this for a while now. Bucket list!!

[@jasonpeacock9735]

Lat time it took the California Zephyr it was Reno to Chicago. We managed to arrive 2 day late. Good luck.

[@mzfitz3844]

Other than the extension cord under you that gave me anxiety...you are doing great! I would place that extension cord up on that ledge right beside you instead of in the bed since could get hot or cause a fire. But it's a smaller space to work with and your doing it!!! Thanks for sharing your train adventure! Food looked great too!!

[@TheCarpetbagger]

Not enough room, it would fall on my face

[@RobOlgatree]

@@TheCarpetbagger duct tape

[@antoniobelmontez-jh6xw]

What about a carpetbagger adventure on the high seas cruise this year

[@kittenscorner6923]

Absolutely loved. I love travel videos, but your spin on it was wonderful. Riding the rails through your eyes. Thanks !! All aboard 😅

[@youtuuba]

Carpetbagger, here is how I stow my own luggage in AMTRAK Superliner Roomettes (same room you have here). My "airplane carry-on size" roller suitcase fits snugly on the top step (for climbing into the top bunk), wedged between the seat headrest and the window to the car's aisle. It does not wobble around and stays put on rough sections of track, yet is quick and easy to get at when needed. My backpack hangs from its cloth strap handle from the coat hook on the side of the narrow closet. On some versions of Superliner Sleep car, there is no coat hook there, but it will be elsewhere and still works for the backpack. Then there will still be another hook elsewhere where I can hang my coat or jacket, which rarely gets used during the trip. A large percentage of the Roomettes have the narrow coat closets, and that is the best place for coat/jacket....not much else can use that space.

[@shepherdjohnsonva]

Good stuff Carpetbagger! Yup, you definitely see things from a different perspective riding the train cross-country. Happy rails!

[@wayneizard6722]

thank you, Jacob. I love watching your videos and I love watching train videos now I get to watch you making train videos.

[@scottperman4292]

Oh my GOSH!! Yes, J… I would totally watch train stops… as a producer i trust your research prowess to hit the best over night spots… little eateries and shopping near the train! DO IT!! I’m in! (BTW… we need you now more than ever my never-met friend)

[@danalynch8889]

I've only traveled by AmTrak once. My family in 1967 moved to Florida from New Jersey while my dad packed up our furniture to move down here. It was a 1 1/2 day trip and I loved it.

[@DebHoeft]

My family and I took the train to NYC We enjoyed the ride. Have fun

[@cozsolo]

You're gonna love the mountains and Moffat Tunnel

[@greghofer4739]

I can't wait to follow you throughout these train videos looks great so far have fun jacob

[@matthewking1790]

So excited for the train trips! Can't wait to see the rest!

[@erica.e.emily1]

Enjoy your train travels, Jacob! My son and I took the Southwest Chief in a roomette from Chicago to Anaheim this past summer. Great way to travel when you can make the journey part of the vacation. Also, you can bid on an upgrade to a bedroom. Might be a good thing to try for your trip back to Chicago. 😊