I chose a 20-hour train over a 2-hour flight to avoid airport chaos. See what the experience aboard was really like.

Perks like comfortable seats and spacious bathrooms made my train trip enjoyable.

Kristine Villarroel/Business Insider

• The partial government shutdown caused long, hourslong TSA lines at many US airports.
• To skip the airport chaos, I canceled my 2-hour flight and booked a 20-hour Amtrak.
• Spacious seats, food on board, and more flexible boarding were among the train's standout perks.

It's been a particularly tough month to travel by air.

The partial government shutdown...