call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245), or visit your local station, and ask them for their brochure Amtrak America - Your Travel Guide to Amtrak Routes and Services, a 60+ page booklet all about Amtrak. It contains a wealth of information, including a description of each major route and diagrams of the layout of all of the types of cars used, including sleeping compartments. You can also order the brochure on-line here. Allow two to four weeks for mail delivery; while you wait, some of the same information is on the Amtrak Web Site.
Also ask for a copy of the Amtrak National Timetable which will greatly assist you in planning future trips. New Timetables usually appear about the same time as the Spring and Fall time changes.
Taking the Auto Train? See also our separate, detailed Amtrak Auto Train Tips, compiled by Don Weinstein.
Planning Group Travel? Amtrak's special Group Reservations number is 1-800-USA-1GRP, 8:30am to 8:00pm Eastern Time. A "group" is 15 persons or more.
Trip Planning
Study the Brochure and Timetables: Initially plan your own trip even if you intend to use a travel agent later to make the bookings. Familiarize yourself with your train numbers and scheduled arrival and departure times; watch out particularly for trains that don't run daily; some long distance trains don't. The timetables contain a wealth of information about every train and every station in the system, and are an invaluable tool for planning ahead for your vacation.
Searching: Learn to use the search feature on the Amtrak web site. A search box is at the top of most pages. Simple one word searches work best and are most likely to result in the display of useful pages. The site also has an Advanced Search page.
Scheduling Hint: Traveling on days just before the full moon is suggested because you can more easily see many things at night.
Schedules on-line: The complete Amtrak schedule is on-line on the World Wide Web in an easy to use format at the Amtrak Web Page.
Amtrak has gobs of general info there too.
For specific information about the Amtrak Auto Train (also written "AutoTrain") which travels between Lorton VA and Sanford FL, visit our Amtrak Auto Train Travel Hints.
Check the Train Status Calculator (third party site) for on-time status of trains over the past several days.
"Amtrak Vacations":Amtrak Vacations operated by a private travel agency on Amtrak's behalf, offers complete packages that include Amtrak travel, hotels, rental cars, planes, and travel insurance. You can call Amtrak Vacations at 1-800-AMTRAK2 (1-800-268-7252) or visit them at the Amtrak Vacations Web Site. Their travel planner can be ordered on line by clicking here.
Fares: Amtrak fares are complex and cannot reasonably and accurately be posted here; contact Amtrak directly about fares.
Rail Passes: Amtrak offers a variety of Rail Pass options to provide you with significant savings on train travel. The North America Rail Pass for U.S. and Canadian citizens is an affordable way for to see the United States and Canada. The USA Rail Pass for international travelers provides significant discounts for non-citizens. Other Passes and special fares are described here. Note that advanced reservations are required on many trains, and these passes do not cover accommodation charges (see below).
Discounts: Fare discounts available include 15% for seniors, 1/2 fare for children (2-15; under 2 free), 10% for AAA and National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP) members on most routes, and others. These discounts do not apply to accommodation charges. Ask about these and other regional and short term discounts. For various promotional fares and packages see the Amtrak web site and select "Hot Deals". Selected deep discounts are available on Rail Sale page.
AAA Numbers: A note about entering AAA numbers on Amtrak's web site, quoting Amtrak:
AAA numbers come in a wide variety of formats. Please enter your three digit club code followed by a "-" and then the remainder of the numbers and letters. For example, 123-456789ABC is a valid format. If your number contains the word "plus" do NOT enter that along with the rest of your number. Please do not enter any spaces between the numbers.
For example, my number is entered like this: 004-xxxxxxxxx, that is 3 digits, dash, 9 digits with no spaces and omitting other digits. However, we've found that the AAA number can only be entered reliably in one's "profile", after registering on the site (free). Entering the number on the reservation pages sometimes works and sometimes doesn't.
Accommodation Charges: Accommodation charges are additional to rail fare and apply to sleeping compartments and service upgrades. Note that there is only one fixed charge (varies by route, segment, and season) for sleeping accommodations so, over and above basic rail fare, two travel as cheaply as one in a two person room -- both receive the same service and perks, including Dining Car meals.
Reservations: When making your reservations you have several options:
First there's Amtrak main phone number, 1-800-USA-RAIL. Any reservations you make this way you'll pay for your tickets by credit card and can either pick them up at a station or can receive them by mail if your originating station is either closed at the time the train is normally scheduled to depart or has no ticket office at all. Otherwise, if you want your tickets mailed you must pay for shipment via Express Delivery at a cost of $12. It remains free to pick them up from an Amtrak ticket agent or a Quik Trak machine. Be sure to discuss these options with the agent on the phone.
Second you can visit a station and talk to an agent face-to-face. Try to avoid their busy times (a hour or so before and half hour after a train is scheduled to depart or arrive respectively). Note that not all Amtrak stations are manned, and many have unusual hours to accommodate the trains they serve.
Third you can visit the Amtrak Web Site and use the automated reservations system there. Caution: Other than some standard discounts (AAA, National Association of Railroad Passengers membership, Senior 62 and over, mobility impaired), you may pay full fare using the web page; we recommend you call 1-800-USA-RAIL instead if you think any other discounts might apply.
Last but not least, there are some travel agents (some free to the traveler) that are "plugged into" Amtrak and are knowledgeable about making rail reservations. Not all travel agents are in this group, however. E-mail
for suggestions.
Unreserved Trains: Keep in mind that major holidays are peak travel times and on unreserved trains you may find no available seats and may have to stand for part or all of your trip, particularly if you board at an intermediate stop.
Upgrading: If you're interested in trying to upgrade your reservation or trying to get a sleeping compartment when one wasn't previously available, try calling Amtrak after 4:00am or so East Coast time. It's about then that they enter daily no-show and cancellation info into their reservation computers. Occasionally you might wish to upgrade (or even downgrade) a reservation at the very last moment. Sometimes, because of no-shows, compartments or coach seats become available. It never hurts to ask the conductor when you board; in some cases rooms are available at 25% to 50% off. Be prepared to pay appropriately on the spot; Cash, travelers checks, and credit cards only.
Changing Reservations: Reservations may be changed in most cases but various rules apply. Ask Amtrak or your travel agent when booking your trip for details about Amtrak's policies related to changing or cancelling reservations.
Refunds of Sleeping Car Accommodation Charges: Sleeping car space must be cancelled at least seven (7) days before departure in order to receive a refund of the accommodation charge. If cancelled within seven days, but before departure, no refund will be given but the amount of the charge not so cancelled may be applied to future Amtrak travel. Cancellation after departure or no cancellation at all (no show) will result in no refund and no credit. Check with Amtrak for more rules regarding cancellation policies.
Check Train Progress: If you're boarding at an intermediate stop or if someone is meeting you, call 1-800-USA-RAIL to see how the train is doing -- trains often run a little late. Once Julie (Amtrak's automated voice recognition system) answers, simply say "Train Status" to her and she will begin a series of questions to help you get the status for whichever train you want. Note that your train's departure time may depend on other trains. For example, the westbound Lake Shore Limited from New York can't leave Albany until the Boston section joins. When speaking to an agent you may wish to ask if any other trains will affect your train's departure. Train progress can also be checked on the Home page of the Amtrak Web Site.
Lateness: Amtrak trains travel almost entirely on the tracks of freight railroads. As such they are at the mercy of many outside forces. Trains will often run a little late, sometimes more than a little. Most of the time this lateness cannot be avoided within the constraints that Amtrak has to live with. (If you would like to see better Amtrak service, use your word processor and write to your representatives in Washington; they hold the purse strings and the ultimate control of Amtrak's destiny.) It should also be noted that during at least one recent quarter, Amtrak outperformed the scheduled airlines in on-time performance, 78% to 74%. However, if lateness is a concern to you, one specific thing you can to is to plan on spending an overnight off the train at any stop where you will be changing trains. This may save you a lot of stress about missing a connection.
Connections to Walt Disney World and other Orlando Attractions: This subject comes up often. There is a bus connecting Amtrak's Orlando station to Walt Disney World. It is operated by CoachUSA (in cooperation with Amtrak) between the Orlando station and Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, the Orlando Airport, and Downtown Orlando. The fare (in early 2003) was a reasonable $16.50 for adults and $8.25 for children, with a party rate of $35 for 3-5 people. Reservations can be made by calling 1-407-826-9999. (We are seeking confirmation that this service continues, and the new rates.)
Connections to LAX: We are often asked how one transfers between Amtrak and the airlines at LAX in Los Angeles. Here's an official web site with good info about this: Los Angeles International Airport - Union Station FlyAway bus service. Note that another good option is to fly into/out of Bob Hope Airport (formerly Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport) in the San Fernando Valley, if possible. Amtrak Pacific Surfliners serve that location (station name: Burbank Airport) with several daily trains which stop within easy walking distance of the airline terminal. The Burbank station is also served by L.A. area commuter rail trains (Metrolink) on working days.
Caution:NEVER get on a train unless you want to go somewhere, you know where the train is going, and you know where you are going. Read the front of your tickets carefully as soon as you get them and before you travel. Also never wander away from the train at intermediate stops; the train will NOT wait for you. Listen to announcements. Ask questions!
Accommodations
All About Amtrak Trains: The Amtrak brochure Amtrak America 2005-2006 - Your Travel Guide to Amtrak Routes and Services has diagrams of each type of car and accommodation that Amtrak uses. You can order the brochure on-line here, or pick it up at many Amtrak stations. System timetables and other publications are available from the same web site and at stations also.
The Amtrak Web Site On board Page also has diagrams and measurements of sleeping compartments. Additional detailed information about Amtrak accommodations is available at the Amtrak Accommodations portion of the Trainweb web site. Excellent diagrams of each type of sleeping car layout, with every room labeled with its letter or number can be found on this Friends of Amtrak page.
Virtual Tours: Amtrak has recently added a "virtual tour" of each type of accommodation to their web site, via their On board page. Apple Quicktime browser plug-in software is required. If you need it, you can download it here; it automatically installs.
Another web site with virtual tours of Amtrak equipment (and in this case also VIA Rail Canada equipment) is 360360.COM on Trainweb. No special additional software is needed.
Accommodations Summary:
Western long distance trains (all west and south departures from Chicago, the west coast Coast Starlight, the Los Angeles-New Orleans Sunset Limited, plus the eastern Capital Limited and Auto Train) are equipped with double-deck "Superliners", all with the same general types of cars. Sleeping cars have 5 Bedrooms (upstairs), formerly named Deluxe Bedrooms, which are ample for two (or two adults and a small child), and 14 Roomettes (10 upstairs, 4 down), formerly called Standard Bedrooms, which are satisfactory for two (with a upper bunk that is a bit tight). There is also one Family Bedroom (2 adults, 2 children) and one Accessible Bedroom (1 mobility impaired person and 1 companion) on the lower level; only these latter two rooms have in-room windows on both sides of the car.
Some of the western long distance trains also have passenger accommodations in their "Transition/Dorm" cars, which are primarily used by the train's Service Crew. Where passenger accommodations are sold in these cars, eight Roomettes on the upper level and one Accessible room on the lower level may be available; a shower is located on the upper level. The rest of the car is off limits to passengers.
The Auto Train also has unique Superliner sleeping cars with eleven Bedrooms. See our Auto Train Tips for more info.
Eastern trains (except the Sunset Limited, Capital Limited, and Auto Train) use single-level Viewliner Sleepers and Amfleet coaches and lounge cars. Amfleet cars were built in the 1970s. You may also see Heritage Diners. Heritage cars are from pre-Amtrak days; they have been fully renovated and configured to Amtrak standards. Viewliner Sleeping Cars include two Bedrooms and 12 Roomettes similar to Superliners described above, plus one Accessible Bedroom . Accommodations for mobility impaired persons are available on all trains.
The Family Bedroom on Superliners is the largest room available and great for a family of four or five, but the relatively small windows make watching the scenery a bit difficult. Also it is on the lower level, near the wheels, so a little noisier (though not too loud for sleeping). Plan on spending much of the day in the Lounge Car.
On Superliners, two pairs of Bedrooms have a removable divider that the attendant can remove to convert then into 4-6 person suites. The single pair of Bedrooms on a Viewliner can be similarly configured.
Access between cars on Superliners is on the upper level only.
Coaches on almost all Amtrak cars have reclining seats in a 2-aisle-2 arrangement with ample leg room. You'll usually see an airline style tray table in the back of the seat in front of you. On Superliner coaches and some others the seats have leg rests built in. Almost all coaches have footrests. Coach seats on all but the cars used on the shortest routes are quite comfortable, approximately like a family room recliner. Tip: Seats on Superliner Coaches have 2" more legroom on the stairway side of the coach.
Aisle or window? If traveling alone you'll often have a choice. Window gets you the best view, something to lean against when sleeping, and a bit more privacy. However, an aisle seat gives you freedom, which is not to be underestimated, especially at 3:00am when you must visit the rest room.
Where to sit in the car? If you have an option, try not to sit too close to the front end of the car. The view will be better a little further back, particularly out the side opposite your seat. This also applies to seats opposite and just behind the center stairwell area on Superliners. Watch out for other folks with coolers (not you, of course) -- smelly food has been known to appear from them. Of course, very small children can be annoying to us "older" folks, too.
Lounge cars are intended for viewing the scenery and grabbing a snack from the snack bar. Seating is generally less comfortable and open to everyone, first come, first served. We've never seen anyone asked to leave because they've "been there too long", but it is considered good manners not to hog a lounge car seat all day long. Double-deck Superliner Lounge Cars are the place to be for scenery highlights and to meet other travelers. Dining cars are another place that you are likely to meet interesting people as you usually share a table with someone new each time as noted above.
Showers: Superliner and Viewliner sleeping cars have showers in Bedrooms and a single shower (downstairs on Superliners) for others to use (it's larger and easier to use than the Bedroom shower and is available to all passengers booked in that car). Some other cars have larger "changing rooms" or "accessible" restrooms, which have more space for taking a sponge bath. There are no showers in coach cars. Don't expect to wash up too much while on the train. Deodorant is another "mandatory" part of the Amtrak Experience.
Note: A few older Superliner sleeping cars still have push-button shower controls in the Bedroom combination shower/toilet compartments; be careful not to confuse the shower control with the toilet control.
General info about sleeping accommodations: Passengers traveling in a sleeper will find that Amtrak provides all the needed linens, pillows, and blankets for their beds. While thick luxury hotel mattresses are not provided, the mattresses still do an adequate job and at least allow one to sleep horizontally unlike the coach seats. Additionally a compartment is much darker than what one experiences in coach and you don’t typically hear your neighbors either, even if you didn't bring earplugs. One also has some control over the temperature within your room, especially in the Viewliner sleepers where you actually have a thermostat. Your sleeping car attendant can help you to adjust the temperature controls if you’re not certain how they work. Additionally your attendant will convert the room from its daytime seating configuration to its nighttime bed configuration; this is part of their job and not something that you should need to deal with. The attendant will also return the room back to its daylight configuration the next morning. Most good attendants watch for you to head for breakfast in the diner and will have your room back to seats by the time you return from breakfast. Soap, washcloths, and towels are provided both for quick wash-ups in the bathrooms and for the showers.
As noted elsewhere sleeping car passengers get all of their meals included when taken in the dining car. Additionally there is a common area in each sleeper where one can find free coffee, tea, and juice for most of the day. Ice is also available at that common area too. Those traveling on the Empire Builder route can also expect a special welcoming gift that contains a light snack and a split of Champagne, for the adults that is. Kids will be offered juice instead. Finally you should find a morning newspaper under your door when you wake up in the morning. The paper is usually a local paper from the last major city that your train passed through earlier that morning.
First Class Lounges: Amtrak has very comfortable First Class "ClubAcela Lounges" at the main stations in Boston South Station, New York Penn Station, Philadelphia 30th Street Station and Washington Union Station. Other First Class lounges, generally called "Metropolitan Lounges", are located at the stations in Chicago; New Orleans (called "Magnolia Lounge"); Portland, OR; St. Paul MN, Miami, FL, and Raleigh NC. Sleeping car passengers are First Class and may use these lounges departing and/or arriving; just show your ticket at the counter in the lounge for admittance. You can check your baggage in most of the Lounges for no charge and leave it while you go off to other things or just relax in the well appointed and comfortable lounge. Some of the Lounges have WiFi connections for computer users; ask about this at the reception desk.
Notes regarding the Chicago Metropolitan Lounge:
The Chicago Metropolitan Lounge recently completed a major renovation and expansion project. Thanks to this work, the lounge can now comfortably accommodate far more people than it could in the past. Additionally Amtrak has basically done away with the open luggage storage area, although large groups still use that area from time to time. Now passengers can check their bags for free with a redcap who staffs a secure room located within the lounge itself. After checking in at the desk, simply turn around to find the luggage area. While checking your bags is free, the Redcaps do still appreciate tips.
Due to the late departure times of the Lake Shore Limited, the Capitol Limited, and the City of New Orleans out of Chicago; Amtrak has implemented a new procedure for the Metropolitan Lounge. Assuming that the train is cleaned and ready to go early enough, the lounge now boards the sleeping car passengers 45 to 60 minutes prior to departure. Usually within 10 to 15 minutes of boarding your sleeper, you will be called to the dining car for dinner.
This means that you are often already seated, with your order taken, and will be munching on your salad, before the train ever leaves Chicago Union Station. If you are not in the Metropolitan Lounge at the proper time, then you may well miss getting dinner on the train, depending on how full it is. Also because of the reduced amount of time for dinner, we do not recommend that coach passengers wait for dinner on the train, at least in the dining car. You might get lucky and get in, but you might also end up in the cafe car.
On the Train
Safety First: Trains are very safe places to be, but some simple safety steps should be considered. Train cars move around (juggle, sway) when in motion and particular when stopping and starting, so keep a hold on something as you walk or be prepared to grab a seat back or handrail. Use extra caution when passing between cars; always wear shoes in this case; always use the red/white stripped handrails; be careful not to step directly on the joint between the cars. Be careful of sliding doors which may not easily spring back if you are caught in them; if they are moving wait till they close and then press or kick the marked "Press" plate; be careful where you put your fingers. When you stow your luggage, especially in overhead racks, ensure that it cannot easily fall out of the storage space.
More about Safety: Watch your step when boarding and leaving the train. Use handrails when boarding, detraining, and climbing stairs. Don't run, especially on the train -- and be sure your children don't run also. Take time to review the Amtrak Passenger Safety Instruction card in the seat pocket, or on the table in sleeping compartments. If this card is missing, ask a Train Attendant (one will be assigned to your car).
Pack sensibly: Carry-on no more luggage than absolutely necessary; no more than you would or could carry on an airplane. Amtrak STRICTLY requires that individual bags (carry-on or checked) weigh no more than 50 pounds (federal requirement), and mandates no more than 2 carry-on bags per person. See Amtrak's Carry-on Baggage Policies page for more info, including what constitutes exceptions. Shoulder straps are suggested.
Additional baggage of up to 50 pounds each (up to 3 bags/passenger) can be checked on most trains at and to major stations (but not between all stations, call Amtrak about that); checked baggage is definitely NOT available to you during your trip (just as on an airliner). Properly pack checked items. Do not check delicate items. They will not be handled as fragile! Be sure checked baggage is properly tagged. Baggage to be checked must be brought to the originating station more than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time (we suggest allowing even more time at the busier stations).
Hint: On return portions, some people like to pack all dirty clothes in one bag and check that bag all the way home.
Baggage Security: Prior to 9/11/2001 baggage could be checked before the date of departure; it sometimes was routed differently to beat you to the destination; it could be held at your destination for up to 2 days at no charge (minimal charge after that). However the rules may have change at some, or all, Amtrak baggage checking facilities, and may change again on short notice. Be sure to check with Amtrak about this before traveling.
More about packing: If you have a sleeping compartment, carry only a small overnight bag as there is very little room in sleeping compartments for luggage, except for some under-seat room for fairly flat items and a small shelf above the folding seat in Bedrooms and a small shelf above the passageway in Viewliner rooms (see the Accommodations section of these Amtrak Travel Tips). Small roll-on-board airline cabin bags just fit under the Bedroom couch on Superliner II's (but you can't plan to definitely be traveling in a Superliner II). Superliner sleepers and coaches have a luggage rack downstairs, with no special security (but we've not heard of significant problems). Coaches have overhead racks for an overnight bag or two and some have a small area for hanging bags.
Bicycles: Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL if you would like detailed info about Amtrak's policies concerning transporting bicycles; the rules vary by route and can be complex.
What to do on a train: Relax! Watch the scenery; that seems obvious but many folks forget to look out the window and miss some of the best parts of the ride. Take a pair of small binoculars if you have them; you'll find a use for them. Take reading material, particularly for evening use. During the day you can expect to be looking out those windows and "schmoozing" with those around you, but things quiet down after dark. AM-FM/Cassette/CD players are desirable, but earphones/headphones MUST be used, and volume should be kept low in any case. A deck of cards is a good idea if traveling with others (some Amtrak snack bars stock cards). Avoid the urge to nap in the daytime -- you'll regret it about 1:00am when you're staring at the night light unable to sleep. Most important thing to do: Relax! That's what train travel is all about.
Keep a journal: It really helps to pass the time constructively and you'll be glad to have the info later. Some people like to use a micro-cassette recorder for this as they can dictate while doing almost everything else. Some like to record the day's events on a laptop computer. Some write up their adventures in a post-trip report. See our Trip Reports section for many of these reports -- we will be pleased to publish your comments too.
Maps and Guides: Knowing where you are and villages you're passing through adds to the enjoyment. Take a good road atlas with you, even if it doesn't show the rail lines; e.g., the Rand McNally "Road Atlas and Travel Guide". You may wish to try aviation Sectional Maps which do show rail lines; you'll find them at a local general aviation airport, but they are rather expensive. The Amtrak Web Site has basic route guide information for every Amtrak route.
TrainWeb has Amtrak route information on-line here.
Also, some trains may have paper route guides on board, though these aren't actually maps. Be sure to ask for one if you don't see them. See our tips about books in these Travel Tips for more route guide suggestions.
If you plan to use a Global Positioning System receiver to keep track of your location, see our GPS Train Tracking page.
Sleeping in coach: If traveling overnight by coach, definitely take a light blanket (we suggest a dark color as it may get a little soiled over several days); an "army blanket" is ideal; a heavy beach towel may be a fair substitute and may be useful at your destination. Amtrak will usually sell you a small blanket for about $10 on board. The train often gets a bit cool at night, even in summer. Many people suggest that you take a pillow as well. Amtrak will provide small airline type pillows on most routes, but larger ones or the inflatable type may prove useful. Some suggest taking a pillowcase and asking for two of the small pillows. Another pillow for the lumbar region is desirable, but the car attendant is likely to balk at providing two or three pillows!
More About Sleeping: Especially in coach, take disposable foam rubber or silicone ear plugs -- they'll help in a variety of social and sleep situations. Those who have trouble dozing off may wish to take some over-the-counter medication with sleep inducing side effects, such as Benadryl. Discuss the use of any such medication with your Physician and/or Pharmacist. You may wish to try using Breathe RightTM nasal strips (available in pharmacies and drug stores) which are said to improve night time breathing and reduce breathing noise (snoring).
Bathing and Grooming: The ability to wash up varies from the private facilities including a shower in a Bedroom on a Superliner or Viewliner (see the Accommodations section of these Tips), to the unisex, closet sized rest rooms in some coaches. Don't plan on taking a shower too often! Take a wash cloth for sponge bathing (and a zip-lock bag to store it in), and flip-flops for your feet. You can usually get a towel from the train attendant, but a super absorbent backpacker towel might work better. Take a bar of soap (in a sealed up soap dish); larger hotel soaps are ideal, though similar soaps are usually available on the train. Some people like to take a small can of Lysol spray for the restrooms and shower. For a long trip, a bottle of skin moisturizer is a good idea. And you'll find a travel pack of moist towelettes invaluable. Frequent travelers have suggested taking a small tote bag with toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, razor, shaving cream, hair brush/comb, aspirin, etc.
Walking the train: Don't stay glued to your seat. Walk around. Meet people. Enjoy your travel mates. "Schmooze!" This is a "required" part of the Amtrak Experience! Generally you can safely leave your possessions on/above your seat while you wander. We always carry our cameras and scanner radios with us, even to the rest room, unless we have someone to watch them (or they are well packed away). You don't have to be paranoid, but simple security considerations should be followed. Of course, considerably more caution is called for at stations and terminals, off the train.
Traveling with Children: You will be able to devote much of your attention to the kids because someone else is doing the "driving". Kids do very well on trains. If old enough to wander on their own, they will quickly meet other kids their age and "socialize" as only kids can do. Usually the Lounge Car will become their social center, particularly on Superliner trains. You may not see your kids for hours at a time. One trick to traveling with children is to have them pack a small carry-on case with their books, game-boy, tapes, tape player, simple non-noisy toys and games, etc. Children quickly tire of just looking at scenery, no matter how spectacular you find it, though they will flock to windows to see wildlife that they would yawn over at a zoo. Small children may wish to bring along a favorite stuffed animal and/or blanket, which will often help them sleep better. A sleeping compartment provides a place for quiet time (or time-out if needed). More about sleeping compartments in the Accommodations section of these Tips.
Clothing: Wear comfortable, casual clothes, the sort you would wear around the house. Most of your fellow travelers will be dressed the same. A jogging outfit is perfect, particularly at night. Comfortable shoes are a must. You can take off your shoes while in your seat or sleeping compartment, but shoes are required when passing from one car to the next. Some like to take soft hard-sole moccasins, which meet the requirements but are the next thing to no shoes at all.
Dining: Long distance trains will have a snack bar and almost always a dining car; the Timetable shows this info at the bottom of the page for each route. Eat at least one meal in the dining car if your train has one. Its fun, no more expensive than the snack bar (for equivalent items), good food -- and an "obligatory" part of the Amtrak Experience. Don't be in a rush. Eating in the dining car is often going to be leisurely. Patience is really a virtue here. Seating is 4 to a table so you'll be meeting new friends at each meal unless you are a part of a fixed four-some. By the way, the staff will request that couples sit alongside, not across from each other since many people are uncomfortable sitting side-by-side with a stranger. Reservations are normally taken for lunch and dinner, breakfast is first come first served. Listen carefully for announcements; usually sleeping car (first class) passengers get first choices. Also, sleeping car passengers receive meals as part of their accommodation -- no charges in the dining car except for alcoholic beverages.
Dining Car Food: Amtrak has posted their latest Dining Car menus on-line here. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required; it can be downloaded free here. There are currently 3 menus in use, so you are not likely to encounter the exact same menu on a multiple train trip. The listed prices are subject to change of course.
Snacks, etc.: Almost all Amtrak trains have a Snack Bar with typical snack bar food such as sandwiches, drinks, candy, and so on. For a sample menu, see our Amtrak Snack Bar Menus page. Exact items vary considerable by the region of the country, but our list is generally representative. Prices will vary a bit from train to train, and are also subject to change of course.
You can also bring your own food aboard. However, you may not consume your brought-aboard food in the dining car or lounge car -- only at your seat or in your sleeping compartment (this is not just policy; federal regulations apply). There is room for a small ice chest/cooler between coach seats; this will save quite a bit on drinks and food; but remember that you have to carry it around with you when off the train.
Soft drinks are sometimes cheaper in depot vending machines than in the lounge car, so be alert for the longer stops with correct change (do not detrain at the short stops!). Lounge attendants will sometimes give you a little of their limited supply of ice -- if you ask nicely (i.e., beg well). Bottled spring or drinking water is nice to have and will often taste much better than Amtrak's tap water, and the bottle will be convenient to have at your seat. For those who enjoy an occasional glass of wine and are traveling by sleeper, take a cork screw and your own bottle of wine. And everyone should bring along some non-perishable munchies as well for those late night, or just about anytime, snacks.
If you are traveling during the busier holidays (e.g., Christmas or Thanksgiving) on trains such as the Northeast Corridor Regional or California corridors, then certainly consider bringing your own food with you. The lines for the snack bar can be very long and the wait can be 30 minutes or more.
Special Meals/Diets: With 72 hours advance notice, some Amtrak trains can accommodate certain dietary needs, including kosher and vegetarian meals, as well as reduced-sodium or reduced-cholesterol selections. Such meals are pre-plated prior to train departure and held until serving. More details can be found on Amtrak's Special Dietary Requirements portion of their general page about meals. Special meals cannot be provided on all trains, nor on connecting Amtrak Thruway buses, nor on buses substituting for trains when such substitution is required. Check with Amtrak for the more specific information.
Entertainment: Movies used to be shown in lounge cars in the evening and sometimes in the afternoon, on TV monitors. As of October 30th, 2006 Amtrak eliminated those movies, except on the Auto Train. Movies are also shown on the Cascades Service, but you must either buy headphones for a small fee or bring your own to hear them. Other entertainment events will be announced on some trains. Several of the long distance trains also have Park Service or other guides that give a talk during the day as you travel through certain areas. A service crew member may organize games in the Lounge car also.
Smoking: Effective November 1, 2004, Amtrak eliminated smoking on board all Amtrak trains other than designated areas on the Auto Train. Occasional longer "smoking stops" on overnight trains will be announced (except during sleep time at night). Persons caught smoking on a non-smoking train will be at least threatened with expulsion at the next stop -- and some conductors we know will give no warnings.
The indoors area of all Amtrak Stations and all dedicated Amtrak "Thruway" buses are also non-smoking.
First aid: First aid kits with all the routine items can be found in most drug stores for less than $5.00. The train crew has first aid materials too, but you may wish to take a small kit for those little cuts or bruises that you don't want to make a big deal about.
Amtrak People
Service and Train Crews: The Amtrak personnel are divided into Service Crew and Train Crew.
The service crew includes Car Attendants (not called "porters" please), Snack Bar Attendant, Lead Service Attendant (LSA; head waiter in dining car, and in charge of all service crew members), Dining Car Chefs, and Dining Car Attendants (waiters). Service crew members generally ride the train from origin to destination.
Train crew includes the Conductor, Assistant Conductors, and the engine crew. Train crew will change about every 6-8 hours on long distance routes. With very few exceptions all crew members are Amtrak employees. The Conductor is in overall charge of the train.
Tipping
General Guidelines: Tipping is NOT required, but is considered correct for the service crew personnel on the train. Recommendations: Snack bar attendant: roughly 10%. Dining car: %15 of menu prices (sleeping car passengers may want to note this when ordering their meals). Coaches: the consensus is that in most cases tips are not necessary, but if special service is given, the guidelines for a sleeping car attendant applies. Sleepers: See the next section. Train crew is never to be tipped.
Tipping a Sleeping Car Attendant: The sleeping car attendant that will greet you when you board the train will be with you throughout your journey (except possibly on the Sunset Limited where they change in New Orleans) and will be changing your room configuration at least twice a day, and performing other services, so it behooves you to get on their best side -- and they on yours. Here are your options for tipping a Sleeping Car Attendant:
Some people recommend tipping the attendant at the first opportunity -- say $20 for what will be a 2 night trip. The idea here is to "pay" for a good level of service up front, to possibly give you a leg up on other passengers, so to speak.
Others say one should wait until the trip is over and tip according to the level of service provided -- if for example you hardly ever saw the attendant and they did nothing much for you beyond the absolute minimum, then no tip or a very small one is appropriate.
Others suggest tipping the attendant in the morning if the service over the past day or part of day has been satisfactory or better. $5-$10 is appropriate.
Others (yes. there are some) suggest that Amtrak Sleeping Car attendants are not at all badly paid for their hours of service and thus should not needed to be tipped at all.
You could pick any of the options above and not be "wrong".
Personally, we believe tipping is appropriate, and don't recommend the fourth option. We go with the second one -- tip at the end according to level of service. For reasonable service for (say) 2 nights for a couple in a Roomette, we would tip $20. This is probably the most popular option of those above -- though many people just never even think of tipping the attendant.
We also go out of our way to be friendly to the attendants and helpful to them in whatever way we can -- basically to treat them well. Our experience has been that a big smile and friendly greeting gets one that little extra without any need to promise compensation up front.
Photography, Electricity, and Electronics
Photography: It's fun to record the scenery that you travel through, but its not easy to take pictures through the heavy-weight plastic windows of an Amtrak train. Glare is a serious problem. Here are some hints from photographers:
Technique (focus & glare): Whenever taking pictures out a window, you'll want to either manually set the focus to infinity, or simulate it by blocking one of the auto-focus sensors (use tape or an agile finger). This works great on most 35mm cameras. However many digital cameras have auto-focus systems which do not use sensors, but rather uses image analysis to determine when the image is in focus. In this case, it is vital that your camera is not focusing on the reflections in the glass. To do this, you'll need to either press the camera right up against the glass (careful if your camera's lens moves while taking the picture), or shield the camera from reflections with a dark material (paper, fabric, etc.). If your camera can use a polarizing filter, it will greatly reduce glare.
Film: Especially when you're moving fast, you'll need higher-speed film (400, 800, etc). This can make your shots grainier, but that only becomes a problem if you plan on enlarging your photos. For digital cameras, look for the option that allows you to adjust your film speed or shutter speed settings.
Camera: In order to minimize blur, you'll need to maximize the shutter speed by finding a camera with a lens that lets in a lot of light quickly. We look for a camera with a big aperture (i.e., small F-stop number); f2.8 or better if possible. Set the exposure times as short as possible; 1/250th of a second or faster. Be cautious about using zoom as it reduces the amount of light coming through your lens, thereby increasing your exposure time and creating more blur.
If you have an integral flash attachment, turn it off or cover it so that it doesn't ruin a picture by reflection.
To give your pictures perspective try to include the head or tail of the train in your pictures whenever possible. The size and scope of a mountain gorge is made much more understandable if an Amtrak locomotive is in the picture.
Electric items: Electric plugs exist in several places on Amtrak trains.
Superliner and Viewliner sleepers have one plug in each Roomette (near the attendant call button), two in Bedrooms and the Accessible Bedrooms (near the call button and over the sink).
Superliner coaches also have a couple of plugs low on the baseboard about midway between the car end and the center stairs on the stairway side, but these are often difficult to find and blocked by seats. There are some refurbished Superliner coaches that have an outlet at every seat, but they remain in the minority and there is no way to know in advance if you will be riding in one.
General restrooms in all cars also have a plug.
Superliner lounge cars have an electric plug on the upper level in the service area next to the stairway, which may or may not be accessible to passengers.
Superliner lounge cars also have two electric plugs on the lower level in the seating area, one on each side of the train up near the ceiling.
Amfleet I and II also have a few plugs in the baseboards (exact seat numbers not available). Some Amfleet coaches, including all Business Class cars, have been upgraded to Concept 2000 interiors, with electric plugs at every pair of seats.
Acela Express cars have electric plugs at every pair of seats, and at single seats in First Class.
Caution: Train power is not especially stable and is susceptible to surges and power spikes which can do damage to some things. Shavers and things like that are fine, as are chargers, particularly for radios. Surge protectors should be used with laptop computers and other delicate electronic equipment.
Other Electrical Info: Superliner II and Viewliner sleeping cars have protruding plugs that accept just about anything, but many chargers won't fit the recessed plugs on the older Superliner I cars, so bring a short 3-prong extension cord with you. The extension cord will be useful in all situations where you need to connect more than one item. Also we've found that occasionally the power may not be sufficient to properly activate some chargers, so spare batteries are suggested.
Scanner Radios: If you're really serious about rail travel, consider purchasing a portable scanner radio (about $100 and up). Check our Scanner Radios section for more info.
GPS: Learn about the use of a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver on a train on our GPS Train Tracking page.
Miscellaneous Tips
Notes From All Over: You may wish to take with you:
Some paper towels and window cleaner
Some Duct Tape® to fasten a loose fitting or whatever
A small flashlight to help find your missing things that somehow have crawled under your seat.
One or two short lengths of 16 or 18 gauge wire may come in handy (e.g., to wire shut a broken sleeping compartment door lock at night).
A few large rubber bands and assorted safety pins which come in handy for all sorts of things
On some Superliner coaches the original leg rest supports have been replaced with a simple support that swings down underneath. Some find that this does not raise high enough at night. Carry something to put under the support to prop it up -- a couple of thick paperbacks will do, and provide reading material too.
If you want to change clothes each day, pack a full change as a bundle that you can pull out together without needing to search for it.
Animals are not permitted on Amtrak trains, buses or in stations, with the exception of trained service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities. See Animals On board on the Amtrak web site.
Tips about Books: Here are some books with good information about traveling by Amtrak travel:
USA by Rail reveals in comprehensive and entertaining style the unique pleasures of North American passenger trains. The author traveled over 70,000 miles throughout the United States and Canada to cover every destination and route, and the book has all the practical information needed to make reservations, purchase tickets and find your way about train stations. It also contains invaluable advice for sightseeing, transport and accommodation in many major cities along the way. For purchase information see: USA by Rail.
Rail Ventures, The Comprehensive Guide to Train Travel in North America contains minute-by-minute route logs, maps and photos, station info, where to stay info, and many Traveler's Tips. The price will be about $14.95US or $19.95CAN if you can find it new, or less if used. This book is out of print but is occasionally available on Amazon.com.
The Milepost, An Amtrak Route Guide, by Lee Groth, 60 pages, can be ordered from the author on his web site.
AMTRAKing-- A Guide to Enjoyable Train Travel, by Mauris L. Emeka, an Amtrak on-board service attendant from 1989 to 1998. It's very informative, with lots of good hints and tips, even for veteran Amtrak riders. Topics include trip planning, getting the best fare, group travel, eating on the train, keeping fit, sleeping, frequently asked questions, and many other hints to help you enjoy your trip. For how to order, see: AMTRAKing.
Heart and Soul of the Train, also by Mauris L. Emeka (see above). For how to order, see: Heart and Soul of the Train.
All Aboard by Jim Loomis. It's a guide to train travel in the U.S., containing many of the tips here, and much more info. For more about the book and how to order it, see: All Aboard
Railfan Timetables by Altamont Press. The concept behind the railfan timetable is to provide a single source of information needed for railfans to enjoy the covered area successfully. These Railfan Timetables provide all track detail for each major railroad, both mainline and branches. The detail includes the railroad radio frequencies, passenger trains on the line, speed limits, station names, mileposts, location of talking detectors, DTC blocks, siding lengths, helper districts, and other info. These timetables are indispensable for the serious railroad fan.
Canadian Trackside Guide from Bytown Railroad Society. This publication provides information similar to the Railfan Timetables above, but covers Canadian rail lines (including those used by Amtrak trains). It is available from Bytown Railway Society, PO Box 141, Station A, Ottawa ON K1A 8V1. US$24 postpaid to U.S. addresses. The 2001 edition is up-to-date as of February 18, 2001. For more information contact Paul Bown.
Trainweb has a list of other selected books about passenger rail travel, with ordering info and so on.
Passenger Train Advocacy and Travel Links
Here are some web sites that have more info about traveling via Amtrak and related matters:
The Amtrak Web Site is a primary source for Amtrak information with individual route information, schedules and an on-line reservation system.
Amtrak Press Release pages are updated frequently and provide the very latest information about Amtrak and traveling conditions.
The National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP) is a lobbying and passenger rail advocacy group. If you would like to help Amtrak to be able to serve you better, the best thing you can do is to join NARP. Their web site also has up-to-date news about Amtrak.
Amtrak's Northeast serves the Northeast Corridor and connecting routes.. If you will be traveling in the northeast area of the United States, this is a page you should visit.
A huge amount of Amtrak route info can be found at TrainWeb Travel, with other items of info at TrainWeb.
A site devoted to a single Amtrak route is the Texas Eagle site, which contains schedule and service information, a trip planner, route guide, and local information for every city along the route, including those served by connecting Thruway motorcoach.
The Rail Passenger USA site contains a wealth of info about rail travel in the U.S. including very useful route guides.
Railserve has links to many other passenger rail travel web sites.
Last and Perhaps Most Important Tip: Don't ride Amtrak expecting great luxury and a high level of personal service. Amtrak isn't the fabled Orient Express (it's also much less expensive!), and it's also not an airline. Don't expect to be pampered, nor see plastic smiles. Travel on Amtrak has been described as a cross between staying at a resort and camping out. Amtrak employees are a cross-section of America; you will encounter some excellent ones, some mediocre ones, and some who may belong in another line of work.
If you have any unpleasant experiences, take names and talk to the Conductor. You can talk to an Amtrak Customer Relations representative by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL and asking for "customer relations"; letters should not be written until you have talked to Customer Relations. By the way, the customer relations folks would be very pleased to hear about your pleasant experiences too.
With a spirit of adventure and a willingness to "go with the flow" you can expect to have a great time!
Amtrak Travel Tips complied by
from many inputs from OTOL members, Amtrak travelers and Amtrak employees, plus HaRRy's 30,000 plus miles riding Amtrak over the past fifteen years. Particular thanks to OTOL Leader Alan Burden.
Amtrak does not endorse this page and other associated On Track On Line pages, nor does it sponsor this or any other On Track On Line page. Amtrak sources were used to compile or confirm some of the information here, but this does not represent official Amtrak information, nor is this information endorsed by Amtrak.
