I took my first overnight Amtrak train from NYC to Miami. Here are 11 ways I made the 30-hour ride more bearable.

A Business Insider reporter took an overnight train from New York City to Miami in an Amtrak roomette.

Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I could have flown from New York City to Miami in October 2021. It would have saved me 27 hours and at least $100.But as a lifelong train lover, I'd always wondered what it would be like to spend a night on the rails. So when I realized there was a 30-hour Amtrak route from NYC to Miami, I felt like it was my chance to try out this type of long-haul travel.Since I was traveling overnight, I booked a roomette accommodation for about $500. A step up from coach seating, it's a 20-square-foot private suite that sleeps two people.I romanticized my overnight train trip to Miami until the moment I stepped on the train. I don't know exactly what I expected, but I felt antsy and anxious about the journey's length and the constant motion. Despite having my own room, I was pretty uncomfortable during my first overnight train ride. Thankfully, I had enough time to find ways to make it easier on myself.

First off, I wore the comfiest clothes I own.

The reporter wore her comfiest clothes for the train ride.