March 16, 2026, 12:51 pm | Read time: 4 minutes

I travel by train relatively often, usually a longer journey of about four hours–provided there are no major delays. To make the time on board pass as quickly as possible, you should not only ensure sufficient entertainment but ideally also some comfort. As an experienced train traveler, I’ve developed a few tricks and tips over time to make a train ride more pleasant and engaging.

For example, I would never make the mistake of relying on the Wi-Fi of Deutsche Bahn or Flixtrain. If you do, you might quickly find yourself out of luck. As a so-called “shared medium,” the internet on the train quickly reaches its limits when many passengers access it simultaneously. Tip number 1, therefore, is to download content to a mobile device before the trip. In case you’ve had enough of reading or no longer want to work on your laptop, for example. But that’s not my only preparation for a train journey.

Why I Always Have Plastic Wrap with Me When I Travel by Train

Back to the topic of comfort. Most people probably want to lean back when sitting on a train for a long time. But personally, I find it very difficult–after all, I am aware of the germ load on the fabric covers of train seats. And as someone who can’t quite deny certain neurotic tendencies, I unfortunately can’t ignore this idea.

As TRAVELBOOK discovered in its own hygiene investigation, the seat surfaces and headrests in trains are most heavily colonized with germs. Some samples showed more than 500 to 620 CFU (colony-forming units) per 25 square centimeters. According to the lab, this is mainly because upholstery fabrics are rarely cleaned, allowing germs to settle more easily.

But even without this knowledge: The idea that the covers and cushions of seats used by so many different people with completely different hygiene standards are rarely cleaned is not exactly appetizing. With the same head you rested on it, you then lean back on your own couch, in your own bed… creepy! Sure, you could shower. But to keep a safe distance from dirt from the start, I always pack plastic wrap for train rides.

More on the topic

Author Reports Why Traveling Without Husband and Child Was a Really Good Idea

Experience report Travel Author Explains: ‘This Is How I Earn Money on Vacation’

Odd Quirk? But a Certain Distance from Germs

I choose my seat on the train–and before I sit down, I cover the seat as much as possible with plastic wrap. I prefer to use disposable covers from the dry cleaner for this. Admittedly, this probably doesn’t make me very popular with environmentalists. Though I should mention that I receive few reactions from fellow travelers. Or maybe I just don’t notice the critical looks.

In fact, this habit recently even earned me some sympathy from a Deutsche Bahn employee. She amusingly commented on my “transparently covered” seat and revealed that she could fully understand my aversion to the questionable cleanliness of the seating areas. In her own words, she expressed it even more sharply…

But back to the environment: Honestly, I now often use a blanket I bring along instead of plastic wrap, which I lay over the seat. After the ride, I bundle it up (with the side that was outside, of course, facing inward), pack it away, and wash it thoroughly at the next opportunity.

You Really Don’t Need to Do This!

Of course, this little precaution is not strictly necessary, if not to say: absolutely over the top. Most train travelers just sit down and, of course, reach their destination just fine. It should also be mentioned that the germs found in trains from our tests do not pose any significant health risks.

For me personally, this little protective cover is now as much a part of train travel as my headphones and a good book. Even if I occasionally get a curious look for it–as long as it makes me feel a bit more comfortable on my seat, I’m happy to accept that.