How to Score the Cheapest Amtrak Deals

[MULTIZ321]

How to Score the Cheapest Amtrak Deals
By Venus Wong/ Travel/ Refinery29/ refinery29.com

"There's something inherently enjoyable about train travel: You get an up-close perspective of the scenery, and not having to go through the misery of airports (lining up to go through security check, for example) is a huge plus. With leaf-peeping season in full force, we've never wanted to hop on a train more.

As the national rail network for the U.S., Amtrak offers train routes spanning 46 states and over 21,000 miles. It's not exactly known as an affordable means to travel: You're likely to find bus tickets — or even flights with budget carriers — cheaper than a ticket on the passenger rail. However, don't just give up the quest for train travel just yet. Read on for five budgeting hacks to save on your next Amtrak trip....."

Photo: Getty


Richard

 

[Panina]

How to Score the Cheapest Amtrak Deals
By Venus Wong/ Travel/ Refinery29/ refinery29.com

"There's something inherently enjoyable about train travel: You get an up-close perspective of the scenery, and not having to go through the misery of airports (lining up to go through security check, for example) is a huge plus. With leaf-peeping season in full force, we've never wanted to hop on a train more.

As the national rail network for the U.S., Amtrak offers train routes spanning 46 states and over 21,000 miles. It's not exactly known as an affordable means to travel: You're likely to find bus tickets — or even flights with budget carriers — cheaper than a ticket on the passenger rail. However, don't just give up the quest for train travel just yet. Read on for five budgeting hacks to save on your next Amtrak trip....."

Photo: Getty


Richard

I have traveled with Amtrak extensively and I just learned about the railserve.com website from your post.

Being a member of the rewards program is a must. It is a very generous program. Right now I am coming home in a sleeper compartment, meals included that I got for free with my reward points. In fact all my New York trips this year were free. Not mentioned is getting the Bank of America Amtrak master card is a way to accumulate points very quickly.

Sales can be very economical. They just had a sale where a companion is free on a sleeper. For example, a round trip ticket in a sleeper from Charlotte NC to New York was $600, including meals.

Best is unlike losing money if you have to change your date or cancel on an airline, Amtrak credits you for another trip.

I do find there is a sweet price for pricing. I don’t believe the article is exactly right. Many times the sleeper portion goes down. I find 1-3 months out is usually less then for example 10 months out but the rooms have to be available. Being I can go a day or two earlier or later I can find better pricing.

I almost like train travel as much as timeshares but timesharing wins.