Going by train: new book helps professionals choose rail over air

How can business professionals in Europe travel more sustainably without compromising efficiency? A new book by Professor Alasdair Skelton offers practical guidance for those who want to replace air travel with train journeys for work.

Professor Alasdair Skelton. Photo: Private

“In 2018, I made the decision to take the train (not the plane) for business trips in Europe to reduce my carbon footprint and to raise awareness about the climate crisis — and because it’s enjoyable,” says Skelton. “This book is not about "tågskrytt" ("‘train bragging") or "flygskam" ("flight shame"). I wrote the book for business travellers from Sweden, who (like myself) are able to travel by train for work. I wanted to make it easier for them to navigate the ‘jungle’ of the European network and its multitude of rail providers.”

The book emphasizes the particular needs of business travellers. Unlike holiday trips, work-related journeys demand punctuality and alertness. “If you’re on holiday, you can arrive exhausted, check in to your accommodation and sleep it off, but this doesn’t work if you’re travelling for work,” Skelton explains. “If you’re travelling for work you need to arrive at your destination in good time for your meeting (not too early, not too late), arrive refreshed and ready to get to work, and work effectively on the journey.”

To make this possible, Skelton shares strategies tailored to journeys from Stockholm to most European countries. These include using an Interrail pass, booking seats directly with rail providers, and opting for first class, which can be surprisingly affordable. “The golden rule is to plan realistic connections,” he notes.

Beyond convenience, sustainability is a key driver of the book. According to Skelton, train travel can reduce the carbon footprint of European business trips to as little as 9–25% of the equivalent flight, even when hotel stays or ferry segments are included.

At the same time, Skelton is careful to stress that rail travel is not feasible for everyone. “There are many good reasons for not travelling by train — it’s more expensive; it takes more time; medical reasons. For this reason I ask readers not to feel bad if flying is the only option. But if your circumstances do make rail travel an option, I hope that this book makes it easier for you.”

The book is available in English, both in print and as a Kindle edition.

Professor Skelton shares his tips for European train travel on Researchers' Desk

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Last updated: September 5, 2025

Source: Department of Environmental Science

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