6 Essential Tips for Amtrak Travelers

Traveling by train is a cherished adventure that many prefer over flying or driving. You can skip security checks and avoid traffic, plus enjoy larger seats and extra legroom. However, those unfamiliar with Amtrak often voice concerns about ticket prices, fewer luxury options compared to flying, and the chaotic boarding scenes at major stations like New York's Penn Station and Washington, D.C.'s Union Station.

We can clarify some of these misconceptions. With proper planning and insider knowledge, you can experience the finest aspects of train travel while staying within your budget and ensuring a stress-free journey. Read on for our Amtrak tips, and get ready to relax and enjoy your trip.

Prepare in Advance

While many view train travel as a last-minute option (and it can be, especially with last-minute fare deals available — more on that later), planning ahead will always benefit you. "The earlier you make your travel arrangements, the better off you'll be," states Marc Magliari, a spokesperson for Amtrak. "Your best chance to secure the lowest fare is to book as early as possible."

If you book your journey at least three to four weeks prior to departure, you can enjoy significantly lower prices, often 50% less than what you'll find within two weeks of your travel dates. Magliari also points out that sleeping compartments for overnight trains often sell out sooner — so keep that in mind for longer trips.

Be Aware of Discounts

Magliari suggests that travelers visit the deals section on Amtrak's website before buying a ticket. There, you might discover offers such as 25% off a trip on Acela, the high-speed business class train on the Northeast corridor, or discounted fares for trips to New Orleans or Miami.

You don’t need to wait for special promotions. Amtrak offers ongoing discounts for children, providing half-price fares for those aged two to twelve (infants under two travel for free), senior citizens, active military members, veterans, and more. Choose these options when booking to regularly receive a discount on standard fares.

Explore a Station Lounge

While station lounges may not match the luxury of some airline offerings, Amtrak does provide various types of private lounges for Acela Express First Class passengers, those in sleeping cars, Amtrak Guest Rewards Select Plus, and Select Executive members.

With complimentary beverages and snacks, internet access, and TVs, along with attendants available to assist with your travel, these lounges are a fantastic place to relax before your departure. Magliari also mentions that Amtrak is investing in this area — new options for purchasing day passes to lounges are becoming available as well.

Utilize Red Cap Service

Traveling with bags? Make sure to use the Red Cap service, a complimentary baggage handling service offered at 12 major stations across the country. Many travelers are unaware that Red Cap is available to everyone. Look for staff in red uniforms, show them your ticket, and they will assist you and your bags to your train, allowing for early boarding. You can choose your seat, and they will take care of your luggage. Upon arrival, a conductor can arrange a Red Cap service for you when you disembark. Note: although this service is free, tipping is appreciated — especially during busy periods, like the holidays.

Think About the Quiet Car

Amtrak designates one Quiet Car per train on several routes — a dedicated car where all passengers maintain a peaceful, library-like atmosphere, avoiding cell phone use, keeping conversations to a minimum, and kindly using headphones for personal devices. If you prefer a quieter ride without chatting with your seatmate or listening to someone else's music, this is the perfect choice for you.

Enroll in the Rewards Program

If you plan to take the train more than a few times a year, Amtrak Guest Rewards is definitely worthwhile. You earn two points for every dollar spent on Amtrak or with partners like Hertz, Hilton Hotels, and more. Points can be redeemed for Amtrak travel rewards (starting at just 800 points), hotel stays, car rentals, and gift cards. As you reach certain tiers, like Select and Select Plus, you unlock additional benefits (such as upgrade coupons and lounge access), and your points earning rate increases. Plus: unused points won’t expire until there’s been no qualifying activity for 24 months, giving you ample time to redeem them.