#wordtrip

Cups You can buy them on the train, but they are expensive and made of glass. We also want to use the cups in our travels outside the train, so glass is not really a good idea. We found these plastic cups that you can fold. Easy to take a long.

Plates Although you can get food onboard the train, you never know what's in store. Most trains get what they can when they stop at a station. It is mostly dry fish or some bread. It is wise to bring your own plates and food from a supermarket (see below) before boarding the train. With our cups, we found some plates that fit together.

Water Very important. You can buy it everywhere and there is a kettle with boiling water, but always keep two bottles of cold water with you.

Reading material Russian people are the masters of communication and you'll find yourself in the cabin with Russian people most of the time. But sometimes you'll be alone. Bring along an e-reader, paper books, or games.

Russian - English dictionary In the modern world, we use a mobile phone and a translation app. Nice, but most of them need the internet. When on the train, and moving, you won't have any reception. So, when you want to talk to Russian people (they usually talk poor English), an old fashion dictionary or picture book is helpful.

Food It is also wise to bring your own food. The train has catering facilities, but they are expensive and the food isn't really that good. There is a kettle on board with hot water. We knew this so we brought: Oatmeal for breakfast, noodles, pasta, cookies, chips, and sweets. When the train stops at a station for a longer period of time, we went out and got some food from the locals. Very surprising what you can find.

Toiletry Yes, things like toothbrush, soap, toothpaste, comb, hair-gel, deodorant, and toilet paper (there is on the train, it's just a precaution). But the best thing we brought was baby wipes. It can be used to clean up yourself a bit. There is no shower, but there is a toilet with a small sink. Here you can wash up if needed.

Music When you want to chill a bit and stare out the window to adore the beautiful country sights, music can help you. It will also help to relax a bit and makes the everlasting sound of the train go away.

Sweater Although this is Russia and you are heading for a part of Siberia, we really recommend a big sweater. During daytime, it is nice in the train, especially with some sun. But they are very fond of the air conditioning and it can be really cold. Also during the night, it can be cold.

Leisure clothes A sweat pants or sweater, some nice t-shirts, and flip flops. Just the clothes you need to get comfortable. During our trip to Irkutsk, a woman joined in our cabin. She was dressed in business clothes, very formal. The first thing she asked was if we would mind waiting in the hallway so she could get dress. This is quite normal on the train: formal people going back home and change into the most comfortable clothes they can find.

Camera Too obvious, maybe, but always have your good camera ready. The landscapes are just beautiful and breath taking. Also, when leave the train, bring it with you. Ergo: Never forget it, where ever you go.