Useful Amtrak Info
Over the years, Amtrak has become my favorite way to travel within the States. It’s safe to say it’s not Shawn’s. Indeed, it’s not for everybody, but recently, more people have opened their eyes to the Amtrak option. If feasible for one’s schedule, Amtrak can be one of the more enjoyable, rewarding ways to travel. Today, I’m sharing some useful Amtrak info I’ve picked up since I’ve started traveling on the rails. I encourage you to keep these items in mind as you consider a future train trip.
See A Different View of the States
No doubt, plane travel will more quickly get you from point A to B most of the time. Scenic views from the sky can be equally breathtaking and fleeting. But views on the train can be uniquely outstanding and longer-lasting. I especially enjoy Amtrak routes where they’re the only method of transportation, going where roads can’t. There are too many examples to mention here, but perhaps my favorite route portion is the California Zephyr stretch from the Rockies through the Sierra Nevadas.
Amtrak Points Are Valuable
I primarily earn Amtrak Guest Rewards points via the no-fee Amtrak Platinum Mastercard from Bank of America at 1x. Long story short, I’ve consistently obtained 2.9 cents per point redemption values on long haul routes and 2.5 cents per point on the Acela. Believe it or not, this is after a devaluation of the currency years ago from the zone-based redemption system. Exact values may vary by an individual’s needs, but I’ve easily redeemed at these values with just a bit of schedule flexibility. And Amtrak cardholders enjoy a 5% rebate on award tickets, effectively bringing more value to their points. Unfortunately, Bank of America is no longer offering Amtrak cards via new applications. I’m excited to see where co-branded Amtrak credit cards end up next!
A Superior Domestic Premium Class Experience
Sleeper car accommodations are easily larger than what one can obtain on a domestic aircraft. Amtrak offers multiple bedroom layouts for two, all the way up to family bedrooms for four. Sleeper car tickets include three meals daily, as well. And I’ve found the long haul dining quality and experience far exceeds what is domestically offered in the sky. I even find value in booking the two-person Roomette on solo trips to benefit from the space and dining options. First class dining choices continue to deliver on the Acela route, currently offering mains such as crab cakes, lamb, and chicken biryani. Acela first class also has a full selection of wine, spirits, and craft beers.
Delayed? It’s Not Always Amtrak’s Fault
Freight railroads primarily control the tracks that Amtrak uses. Sharing the tracks can result in delays where Amtrak isn’t necessarily to blame. Indeed, Amtrak and the freight railroads are currently in mediation which could greatly affect Amtrak’s future. Expect delays and incorporate them into your planning and schedule. Speaking of…
How I Avoid Missing a Train
Certain delays are unavoidable, but passengers do have some control over the process. Amtrak trains, especially long haul routes, can arrive behind schedule, often by hours. I avoid tight train connections. And what I consider tight connections on planes and trains are very different. I’ve gotten to the point where I generally avoid same day connections. I most often connect at DC’s or Chicago’s main train stations, both called Union Station. I’ll incorporate at least an overnight stay visit in DC or Chicago to avoid missing my connection. I enjoy visiting these two locales anyway, especially Chicago.
To be clear, my connection strategy is very conservative – but I have the time for it. Many riders easily connect on the same day, even with relatively short connection times.
When a Train Beats a Plane
If you’re in the Northeast anywhere between Boston and DC, consider taking the Acela over a plane. When one incorporates the extra airport time into the equation, flying compared to a train trip can be a wash. Depending on one’s points of departure and arrival, a train may even be faster. The relative ease and comfort of train travel may win out even if it’s a bit longer than a plane. The next time you have travel needs in the Northeast, mess around on the Amtrak site and see what’s possible.
Amtrak Elite Status – Maybe Unnecessary
Paying passengers, especially those on business, will probably benefit most from Amtrak elite status. Elite travelers can receive bonus points for paid tickets, lounge passes, companion coupons, etc. People like me who enjoy traveling Amtrak exclusively on reward tickets don’t obtain as many benefits. And since I book sleeper ticket awards, I have access to lounges, anyway.
One unique ability that Amtrak elite status unlocks is the ability to transfer Amtrak points to hotel chains like Choice and Hilton. But based on your other opportunities, transferring via Amtrak may not be the optimal move. Check out the specific benefits of Amtrak elite status here to determine if it’s worth the effort.
Conclusion
Amtrak is relatively niche when compared to airline options – many traveler’s don’t have a practical use case for train travel. But some out there may be surprised that Amtrak can fit their travel needs, often in a much more enjoyable fashion. And, at the risk of stating the obvious, train travel is generally slow. But I’m one of those who needs more of that. And I’d say more people do, they just don’t know it. Train travel has enriched my life, and I encourage others to experience it, via Amtrak or otherwise. What useful Amtrak info can you share?
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the old king of travel rewards cards. Right now
bonus_miles_full
Learn more about this card and its features!
Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.
What do you think about a bus service as an alternative between nearby cities like NYC and DC? The travel time is about the same and can be much cheaper for travel without advance purchase, and on this route there are other “better than greyhound” style options. I’m not an Amtrak expert, but sure seems like there’s other options for routes where a bus could be better than ether a train or a plane.
Larry L,
Great thoughts. Bus options are definitely out there and are particularly convenient to those living within or close to downtowns. I don’t have any experience with those bus services myself, but I definitely encourage travelers to comparison shop their routes!
I took an Amtrak trip in May 2022. Sold as a train trip with beautiful coastal views from Seattle to Vancouver BC. Ended up as a bus ride through farmland. Train had not run for 2 1/2 yrs. Hotels not as advertised. This was an expensive disappointment. I would never book Amtrak train vaca again!!! More like Amtrak scam.
Kathleen,
Sorry it didn’t work out for you!
I’ve never taken an Amtrak trip, but I would like to. I’ve read some decidely negative articles, however, and I wish someone on your staff would write a counterpoint to your positive article. I can understand if your group chooses not to, however.
Elizabeth,
Thanks for reading! Follow the link in the article’s second sentence for a differing viewpoint.
Thanks for pointing that out, Benjy. Good article by Shawn and lots of informative comments!
The one thing I miss when Amtrak and United ended their partnership is that I used to get Amtrak lounge access due to my United Club membership.
TravelerMike,
Good point!
Over the years we’ve taken the Coast Starlight 3 times and the Empire Builder from Portland to Glacier NP once, all in sleepers. When the chance to snag the MC from Bank of America came up last year for Amtrak’s 50th anniversary, I jumped at it and am looking forward to booking award travel. Train travel is civilized, the food has always been good (even for us vegetarians), the company of other travelers enjoyable and the scenery spectacular.
AnneG,
I’m a big fan of those two routes! Indeed, our experiences in sleepers made them better. It looks like you timed your BOA Amtrak card just right, hopefully with the big welcome offer. And I like your great summary of why you enjoy the train.
I missed out on that 50k offer because I wanted to get under 5/24 faster. Luckily P2 has one, so not a total loss. But still kicking myself.
I’ve got a Chase offer for Amtrak loaded on my CIC now. It’s only for 10% back up to $90 spend, but the point is maybe the relationship could lead to Chase reintroducing an Amtrak card, and allowing UR transfer?
One good thing about late long-distance Amtrak trains- It’s not like at the airport, where serial delays keep extending a departure time until it’s a whole day gone or the flight cancelled. Rather, it’s easy to see where the train is, and when it will arrive at my station, and relax at my house until an hour before the new departure time.
EricF,
Maybe that’s a bit of wishful thinking, but I, too, would love to see Amtrak return to the Chase portfolio. And great perspective on the relative ease and comfort waiting for your (sometimes delayed) train!