Train in a Tin: Ultra-compact toy train set.

Train in a Tin

Ultra-compact toy train set.


Train in a Tin is an easily assembled train set that’s perfect for a little engineer whose parents appreciate a toy that can be easily stored.

This lil’ locomotive replaces coal power with a single AA battery; that’s all the engine needs to tow the three included cars. Hook together the plastic pieces of track to form an oval circuit for your train and have fun watching it complete laps—just watch out for tiny stowaways and freight hoppers along the way.

When you need to clear space on your desk or coffee table, the set quickly disassembles and stores back into the tin where it awaits its next route.

Features & specs

  • Plastic train set that stores in a small tin
  • Includes battery-operated engine, 3 cars, 6 pieces of straight track, 6 pieces of curved track, 1 spare hook, 1 spare eye
  • Requires 1 x AA battery (not included)
  • Assembled track size: 22” x 10” (56 cm x 26 cm)
  • Approx. tin dimensions: 5.5” x 4” x 2.25” (14.5 cm x 10 cm x 5.5 cm)
  • Yes, it really works!

Engineered fun

A model train set is a classic toy, but its complex build and take-down mean that it tends to become a permanent fixture in your house. Train in a Tin is an easily-giftable model train set that lets you have the fun of a train set without it taking over your basement. It’s fun to watch the tiny train do laps, for both hobbyists and kids alike.

The (really) little engine that could.

Simple setup

Laying the track for Train in a Tin doesn’t require a golden spike or the might of a John Henry. The 12 plastic pieces fit together easily for complete a setup that only takes minutes. After linking the cars together with a hook and eye system, just throw the switch on the locomotive, and it’s full steam ahead!

Complete train set in a tinComplete train set in a tinComplete train set in a tin
Hop on the coffee table express.

Get on track

The Train in a Tin set includes six pieces of curved track and six pieces of straight track that join together to form either a 22” oval or a 17” triangle. Choose your route and then watch your electric rail transportation navigate the tracks.

22 inch train track
Connect previously unreachable parts of your desk.

Wild west whimsy

The pieces in the Train in a Tin set look like they were plucked straight from a miniaturized old west town. The old-fashioned locomotive has a cattle catcher on the front, the freight car is labeled freightline, the coal car has black “coal” peeking out the top, and the passenger car has windows for viewing the scenery (i.e. your living room furniture).

All three cars have a hook-and-eye piece so you can rotate which one acts as the compact caboose.

Four detailed cars + locomotive
From a time when trains weren’t for commuting.

Pack it in

When you’ve had enough train time, the set quickly disassembles and packs neatly back into its tin. The small storage container easily fits on a toy shelf where it’s ready to unpack at a moment’s notice.

Train set in storage tin
Easy to store (and gift)!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What if the railcar connectors break?

Answer: Train in a Tin includes an extra hook-and-eye to allow for repairs. Simply remove the broken piece with a screwdriver and attach the new one.

Question: How does it move?

Answer: The locomotive runs off of a single AA battery (not included) that powers the back wheels. The locomotive pulls the other cars with it.

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