Great videos, thanks! One nice thing about the downstairs roomettes- 3 bathrooms right there, rather than the 1 upstairs. Not only more access in the middle of the night, but they tend to be cleaner and less worn.
This is something I really want to do. Ever since I road coach from Baltimore to Orlando (24hr) as a child. I remember waddling through the train (mostly just because I was bored as a kid) and the first time someone showed me a sleeper car it blew my mind. I didn't even know what a "sleeper" was or that it existed. Now I love in Vegas and I'm trying to see about going to LA and taking the Southwest Chief to Chicago and then getting on the Texas Eagle the next day to back to LA. Nice week long vacation on the rails! These tips will certainly prove useful if I can make that trip happen.
Thank you for all your information. I've been binge-watching your channel for the last couple of months and have learned so much! I plan to take a one-time round trip on Amtrak (solo senior) from LA to Brunswick, Maine in April 2023. (I hate air travel, so train it must be.) You have covered a ton of stuff that will help keep me out of trouble. I truly appreciate every piece of advice.
We just took the California Zephyr and arrived 5 hours late to Emeryville. We missed the commuter train from Emeryville to Fremont. Amtrak called us a cab and paid for it.🤷♀️
Really appreciate your RUclips series. It inspired me to take the Texas Eagle from Fort Worth, Texas to Chicago this past weekend. Since it was approximately 24 hour train ride I decided to take an upper deck coach seat (which worked out great). I was on the 22 train going north bound, my coach was a bit weathered to say the least (it was not unbearable). The train was definitely more crowed going north bound on a Friday. There is not observation car , which I was aware of and I brought a cooler which allowed me to have decent meals without breaking the bank. Spent a wonderful weekend with my daughter, son in law and new grandson (for his baptism) and then took the 21 train southbound on Monday. The train was definitely not as full as coming up on the northbound train. The coach car was also a bit more freshened up. So overall, thank you for your guidance and hope to see you both on the rails. Be well and stay safe.
Hello, hope all is well. I'm an Amtrak rider and it's better not be in a hurry or be on a time schedule. I ride for leisure pleasure, not in a hurry. I love riding Amtrak, and I always get a roomlette. You guys I love, and love your videos too.
Thank you! You are so helpful and charming. It’s really good advice to allow buffer time if you have an event or any time restriction. I have learned to do this with flights as well. In summer it might be thunderstorms and in winter there can be blizzards. Leave a good amount of time between arrival and needing to catch the train - better to spend it having a leisurely coffee, or three, rather than have a panic attack about your connection.
Once flying to NY on a Wednesday, the plane circled several times and we arrived an hour late. Explanation: This was the 1st good weather for flying all week and there was a lot of air traffic from corporate jets!
I am new to your channel, and I am really enjoying it. I've only taken one Amtrak trip in the last 15 years ago (from St. Louis to Kansas City and back), but I did several overnight trips in the 90s, including a trip from Portand, Oregon to Boston and back (with a stop @ the Grand Canyon). The advice about not having tight connections is helpful. I try to have an attitude that if the train is late, you'll see different scenery. One trip north on the Coast Starlight, we had a great view of Mt. Shasta because the train was a couple hours late. I have traveled coach on long trips, and one thing I found helpful is to not have consecutive nights sleeping on the coach seats. Even just one night in a real bed helps the kinks to go away.
Thank you for all of these videos!! I've just watched a bunch to prep for our cross country train trip, leaving Sunday. One thing I thought I'd add is that if you are an adult traveling with two small kids (my situation), they will book all of you into one roomette, but you have to call in to do it. Thanks again for all the tips and help! Love the videos!
I used to take the Coast Starlight down to LA. I loved going through the mountains from Klamath Falls and into Redding also. Although we did get stopped by snow one time and you have to time it so it's still light (quite a trick). But that was my favorite section.
I just checked my ticket, and it says Superliner, room 2. on the Southwest Chief, at the end of the month. I'm super excited. Thank you for the update.
Agree 1000 % with #1; I knew I would have trouble getting to AutoTrain on time so booked the Amtrak sponsored hotel for night before departure and had a leisure breakfast and no stress before boarding next late morning. Same with #2; ended up with a suite for 4 and most expensive room (was fine tho) as it was October and everyone heads to Florida in fall to their winter homes. And DO NOT GET A ROOM ON FIRST FLOOR. Agree 1000%.
I'm hoping to make a round trip from CA to Michigan. My biggest problem is understanding how to book a roomette for one and how much it will cost, best rates and times, and so on. I'm also a solo senior here. Just started watching this channel and getting lots of information is wonderful. Thanks!
Thanks for providing such valuable information. We are talking our first amtrak trip this summer on the zephyr. Thanks for everything. Good day to you both.
Love the channel . .. Wife & I are booked on a 14-day (7 over-night trains + 7 intermediate-hotels) trip this June. The hotel-stops in SLC, Sacramento, Portland, EastGlacier and Chicago are "buffer" / sight-seeing opportunities in-between the trains. Our one tight ( CalZ at Chicago on the 2nd Day . . . I have watched your videos so many times . . . so THANK YOU!.
I so enjoyed watching you both in this video. I love your style, your personalities, and especially how you do it all in sync. So beautiful and informative. Thank you.
I’m going to take my first Amtrak trip in early August riding the Cardinal from Cincinnati connecting to the Zephyr and finally the Coast Starliner to LA. Your travel guides have been most helpful and thorough covering everything I’ve wanted to know to be prepared for my trip. Your presentations are casual yet professional. Thank you for making these videos!
I started watching your videos after me and my husband got married and i started taking amtrak back and forth to see him as we live in different states for personal reasons. I love the train ride up to see him and back again. We eventually would love to take a train from where he is in connecticut all the way to california one day. I make the trip to visit him every 3 months or so. and honestly im not sure if im more excited for the train ride or to see him sometimes LOL Also want to add i have to travel with a mobility scooter due to issues walking far, and i have to say each and everytime amtrak employees where EXCELLENT in helping me on and off the train, red caps always made sure i got to my train, its been all around great experience.
I just added your website to my bookmarks. Your videos are so informational and enjoyable to watch; thank you so much for doing all you do. I love to travel and often do solo traveling so when I saw your website I kinda did a happy dance. I'm eagerly planning some trips again!
Love your videos. Talking about dinner times, on our trip from Chicago to Flagstaff (Grand Canyon), they postponed dinner during the maintenance stop in Albuquerque. This was on the return trip but just something to think about. It was about a 30-45 minute stop. So all lunch/dinner reservations were moved back. Thanks for all your information!
@@GroundedLifeTravel I think they had some maintenance people come on board too. They made the announcement that food service would be delayed because of maintenance. We stayed in our Roomette during the maintenance and we still had power.
Discovered your superb channel when we started looking into LA to Chicago. REALLY like your insights for us novice Amtrak travelers - especially the onboard accommodations. We're picking up a rental car in Chicago for our local transportation to use for a 2 week vacation. Maybe we'll grab a room in town and like you say, just enjoy the ride!
Love the video! Someday I'll be able to use these great tips :-). Just a thought or two: It may confuse people to learn Burbank CA has two stations, the Burbank Airport Station and Downtown Burbank. Most people will want the Airport one. Amtrak shares these with the LA Metro line, but unless something has changed, Amtrak does NOT always stop at the Downtown station. Ironically, Downtown has more parking. The airport station has two tiny lots along that stretch, but yeah, it's pretty tight. I totally agree on the lack of signage and not knowing which track is used.
Best channel ever! There are many channels about travelling, but the WAY you tell stuff is super interesting. Every time I want to "take a quick look", I stay for the entire video 😁
I wish sites like this was around before the Digital Age. Before cell phones, passengers relied upon train schedules or ask on board staff the train's status. I remember many folks getting off at major stops & running for phone booths or Western Union telegraph offices in stations (remember those?) Times have changed dramatically and travelers are more aware than ever. Great advice. I've learned the hard way.
Even though I have the money I ride in Coach on overnight trips just to save the money. My philosophy is that if I get a lousy night's sleep for a $100 ticket I don't care,.....if I get a lousy night's sleep and it cost me $600 that would irritate me no end.I don't begrudge anyone for upgrading to a roomette or sleeper,...but,....I just rough it and save the ''Benjamins'' for where I am going.
Good point. I was on an overnight train in coach where a man sat half a car away with his family. He snored so loud, that I spent the night in the cafe car to get away from him. If he had been in a roomette next to my $600-$1000 roomette, I would have been furious.
so funny; but I slept like a baby in my second floor suite on AutoTrain and enjoyed eating in the fancy dining room (white cotton table cloth, real silverware, free wine . . .) and my own toilet and full shower (separate.). Just shows "To Each His/her Own."
great advice guys! Would love to do an Amtrak trip when my daughter is much older, the distances blow my mind sometimes - it takes me longer to get to Edinburgh from the Highlands than it does to get to London from Edinburgh (120miles vs 400miles!)
I just completed my train trip on the Texas Eagle from Tucson, AZ to Pittsburgh, PA. 4 days and 3 nights. Sleeper car all booked. Chair for me the entire time. Never again!! So many experiences that had ups and downs. Long trips - book a sleeper early!!
Thank you for the information! I am traveling this month, but I will get Chicago a day before to avoid any problem to get the California Zypher. Also I booked a hotel in San Francisco that has 24 hours front desk service and notified them my late check in, thinking about Amtrak delays 😅
This is super useful, I'm taking the Coast Starlight and then the Sunset Limited all the way from Seattle to Houston in August and I just checked and my Sunset Limited roommette is room 14 so I'm going to call to see if they can change it. Thanks!
Hmm I was told that it would cost me about $130 to switch roommettes because the price has gone up since I booked the trip a month ago. Does this sound legit? I decided against doing that. If it is the way it works I'm guessing next time I should call right away to make the switch.
Hmm.. that doesn't sound right, it should be free to just switch rooms since you aren't switching trains. We've never paid to switch to a different room. Maybe call back one more time and see if they'll do it for free.
I applied for the Mastercard for the 20,000 points and it’s on the way 05/2024 ( we already booked our trip to New York) but that’s ok we will build up the points for the next trip! Planning on using the lounge coupon( in New York )on this trip!!!
I don’t entirely agree with your statement about the Coast Starlight train only being great views on the Southern California stretch. Yes, the coastal part is beautiful and breathtaking, especially if you can get dinner as sunset time (southbound). However, the mountain stretch and passes through the upper portion of the trip, mostly through Oregon, are just as breathtaking, especially during the late winter. And when it’s springtime, it’s equally beautiful as there are several streams and waterfalls along the route, best seen on the northbound trip. Just make sure to be on the west side of the train for the best views. And of course, the time of year also has an impact on the scenery as it gets darker earlier during the winter. Southbound in the summer makes for a nice late dinner as it will still be light out as you pass along the coast. Unfortunately, there is no lounge at Seattle. We did enjoy the lounge in LA. And the food was great throughout. Hope to see you sometime during my travels.
and Mount Shasta! On the east side of the train--I've seen it in the dawn's early light and also covered with snow in the full moon-light. Just spectacular! and it's so huge, it's visible, from the east side of the train or looking out the back of the last car, for hours and hours!
Just recently found your wonderful videos and fantastic over all information. It really is very helpful with all you go over so clearly! So, with the train being late a lot of the times as you said, what do you do about renting a car? Don't rent ahead of time and wait till you arrive at your destination? I signed up for the guest rewards account. The question I have about the Amtrak Master Card, one gets reward points for all things they charge with it including items not related to using Amtrak? Everyday type charges I mean gas, groceries, restaurants etc. Thank you for your fun and great videos!
Yes, you do get those points! We do rent cars, but we make sure the location is open 4-6 hours later than we are to arrive so they won't close if the train is late.
Not sure how this is going to work, but I bought those plastic bags that you pack and roll out the air to see if I can get away with not having so much luggage since we are limited. Going to Austin in May from PA. Taking 3 different trains. Thankfully in Pittsburgh we can check our bags, but from Johnstown to Pitt, we carry all our luggage with us.
To both of me and my wife, the biggest Amtrak mistake is to take the Amtrak. After watching a lot of videos from your channel and other about Amtrak, we booked our 1st Amtrak trip from San Diego to Chicago a year ago. We were so excited when the day finally came last week. Sadly, our excitement turned out to be a total disaster. We were on the coach seats on the Pacific Surfliner from San Diego to Los Angles and it was actually pretty nice and comfortable. After switching to the Texas Eagle for the rest of the 3 night ride to Chicago, we were in a roomette. The room was smaller than we expected. There wasn't enough space even for our carry-on suitcases and we had to place them onto the end of our beds, which made sleeping uncomfortable. We are mid/small size person and we still find it very difficult simply on changing our clothes without having the upper bed lifted. The room was so hot, it averaged at least 85F during whole day except nighttime. The restroom on our upper deck had no ventilation at all. The toilet also won't flush after the 1st day and a half. The bathroom was so tiny that turning around inside was almost impossible. Only one to two of our meals had the quality of food as we had expected. We did not experience the kinds of hospitality from our room attendant as described by you guys in your videos. Overall, it's an extremely disappointing and terrible experience. We even considered leaving the train after the 1st night. Over a thousand dollars cost, this is our most regrettable trip. We would not do it again even being presented with a free voucher! I also had my Amtrak credit card, which I had it solely for the purpose of earning Amtrak points, cancelled immediately as I am definitely sure I won't need it anymore.
@@Gryphon999 If you are in a roomette like us, I don't see there can be any difference.. . Wishing you a wondering trip! I'd also be curious if you can let me know ours was really an anomaly after your trip:).
Hi! I love your channel and it’s been very helpful!! We are planning our first Amtrak trip … to Disney! I was hoping you could give your opinion on which station to choose… Orlando or Kissimmee:) thank you!!!
Hi can you please do a video of possible food items to take in a cooler for overnight coach, several days trip? Since there is no microwave, thank you, love your videos
Monday, April 4th I start my 6518 mile trip by train across the United States. Train 125 from Baltimore to Washington DC, Train 29 to Chicago IL, then Train 5 the famous California Zephyr. I arrive in Oakland Ca Thursday, April 7th spend a night at the Oakland Marriott, then back on the California Zephyr to do the trip back home. My only concern is the Chicago connection to Washington DC. there is 4 hours between trains and the #6 has been running 3-4 hours late. and my roomette is downstairs # 12 and 13
I also live near Baltimore and was going to almost do the exact same trip in early summer with the USA RAIL pass. I had about a 4 hour time window before I would have to switch trains in Chicago. If I get stuck I would have to improvise. I DO NOT want to have to stay over in Chicago at a hotel to wait a day or 2 for the next train. That would cost almost the same amount as the Rail Pass.
We're going on the Silver Star north in April and returning in May. Silver Meteor still suspended. We have done this route twice and checked bags without problem, but have your ever had problems with your checked bags not getting on or off the train? I was panicking in somewhat small Winter Park, FL but the bags were removed and we got them. And impressed that the agent checked the ticket to be sure we were taking our bags and only our bags, something the airlines don't do at all!! Thanks for the info. Hoping to see you on the rails.
I would agree with Amtrak being late, except for the Acela. The reason why is Amtrak owns those tracks. Where the other trains they are at the mercy of freight companies who while supposed to give Amtrak the right away, they don't.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Unless they know you're in a rush 😂 I live on the NE line and I'm convinced the Regional trains can feel your impatience on the way to the station haha
I am so glad I found your channel. It is so interesting, and really makes me want to just jump on and travel all over the country on a train. My best friend and I are considering taking a train from Charleston WV to Chicago, more than likely mid to late Sept. My best friend and her husband took a train from Charleston to CA and back, stopping a couple places for a couple days, and had an amazing time, so she suggested we take a train, rather than driving. I have a bad back (2 herniated discs) and traveling by car for long distances is hard. Wondering if you have any suggestions for me? We want to get a roomette on the way there, because it will be night, but thinking coach on the trip home, because it is cheaper, we will both be awake so we could enjoy looking out both sides of the train while saving money. Any tips you have would be appreciated.
The coach seats are pretty comfortable and do recline, so that may be of help to you on your return trip. The good part is you can get up and walk around if you need to during the trip.
If you have a bad back, I highly suggest that you bring lumbar support and good travel pillows. And definitely walk around the train so you stretch your back. And also bring ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones and eye masks
@@nataliajimenez1870 I brought earplugs and was so sorry I left them in my 'checked' bag. I had to listen to someone playing music loudly on her phone and her phone calls. I wanted to ask her to turn down the volume but I didn't because no one else did. So glad she exited 5 hours later about 10pm.
The scariest unmanned station is for the Grand Canyon from Los Angeles. You get in at 2AM. The station burned down. So all there is is a SUV waiting for you in the middle of a forest. It is even worse when you leave from Grand Canyon. Same 2 AM train time. The SUV drops you off. And then leaves. Unless someone is coming in. When I left no one was coming in from LA. So dropped off and the SUV was gone. Pretty scary standing in the woods at 2 AM hoping the train shows up.
I also saw a woman miss a train because she expected someone to come up to her, ask her where she was going, and take her to her seat. That was at the Tacoma station, and they make more than one announcement telling passengers where they need to be-all of which she ignored. Afterward, she said, “I have tickets for that train. How dare they leave me.” I wanted to point out to her that, no matter what mode of public transportation you are using, it’s up to the passengers to get themselves where they need to be to board.
Thanks for all the recommendations. From Chicago to the Westcoast witch train you recommend and if it is less tired to do it in segments with stop overnight in big cities and only use the roommates accommodation for overnight travel
The most scenic route is Chicago to Emeryville on the California Zephyr. You could spend time in Chicago and San Francisco on that route. Emeryville is a suburb of San Francisco.
Thanks for this info about the upper and lower levels. Recently I got an email from Amtrak that my roomette on my upcoming trip was changed from #1 to #19, so after watching this video I went searching for some diagrams to see where I would be. I think I'm still on the upper level? In a transition sleeper car? (Southwest Chief) It's my first long train trip on Amtrak so I won't know any different. I'm excited!
I assume it is a transition sleeper car. Also do not know how you got room #1 at first since that room is usually reserved for the sleep attendent for your car.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 yes, my room ended up being in a transition sleeper car, which I loved (was empty and quiet for a lot of the time and felt very private and peaceful.) Not sure why I had #1 originally...
Love your channel! Traveling from Marshall, TX (Texas Eagle) to Chicago, Chicago to Pittsburgh (Capitol Limited) in a few weeks. Any advice or views to be on the lookout for?
Good tips! I've only been on one Amtrak trip but plan to do more, especially the western routes. My one trip Charlotte to NYC, I arrived an hour early (expecting a line and boarding early) but the train was 2+ hours late!. I arrived in NYC 2 hours late and fortunately didn't pre-book anything but did have to change my plans. One question: Is the multi-route pass ever coming back?
The master card no longer exists as of December. Sadly BoA pulled it after news came out in October Amtrak was considering switching. Such a shame as the sign on bonus was very tempting.
Any suggestions for hotel accommodations near the stations? What about a video on that topic? I want to plan a trip from Arizona to Tacoma, Wa, starting in Maricopa, Az, and I think I should plan to stay the night in LA before boarding the Coast Starlight the next day. It would be great to know what hotels you have stayed at, and your thoughts-can you walk to them, take an Uber, etc.
Hello, Allie and Rob. Thank you for your posts, and the helpful information. I am officially retiring, in August, and will be a full-time traveler. I was looking for where I could ask a question on your website, but was unsuccessful. I wanted to ask if you a home base? I pretty much have everything complete except determining if I need to establish a home base. Do you stay in Airbnb‘s when you are not traveling? Thank you for answering my question. I truly appreciate it.
Yes, we do most of the time stay in Airbnb's when not in a hotel. If you book them for 28 days or more you can usually get a discount. Our home base is Atlanta, which is where we are from, and our family lives too.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Awesome. Okay. I did notice the Airbnb‘s were a lot cheaper when I booked them for 28 days a more. So I will also be sure that I have an Airbnb booked for whenever I am not traveling. My homebase will be near Atlanta, but on the Alabama side of I-85. Thank you so much, and I also appreciate the inspiration for Amtrak travel. I will start my cross-country travel on Amtrak in June. I will break the travel up by region, starting in the north east out of New York. 🚊☺️
I'm planning a trip on the California Zephyr in June and your channel has been so helpful in preparing. We have bedroom B reserved. Will that be upstairs or down? Also, you indicated that we'll want to be on the 'south side' for views. If going from Chicago to Emeryville, is that the left or right? Thanks again for your expertise!
That will be upstairs if you are in a bedroom, they are all upstairs. You won't know which side you are on until you get on, because they can switch the sides, but the bedrooms are all on the same side so they are usually on the good side. Roomettes are the bigger concern, in a bedroom you should be all set!
When I hear stories like the one you recounted at the beginning of the video, it frustrates me to no end. Companies really should be more accommodating for situations like these where through no fault of the customer, they are forced to go elsewhere to get their car. It is in the system that you were booked for a reservation at x location and they can verify the train delay. My husband works for a national motel chain and he related a situation where a customer had booked a reservation more than a year in advance for a certain rate, but then went online and made a change to the room type. The original reservation was not cancelled and re-booked, just a change to an existing reservation. This caused the rate to be changed to the current price which was 4 times higher.
If I understand the process it’s valuable to book your entire trip on one ticket or a multi train ticket ( not separate independent legs),so if one train is late (missed connection) Amtrak will take care of you via rebooking or hotel stays
yup; I booked by calling Amtrak so I could ask the one million questions I had . . . .same with a flight; the major air carriers themselves can be just as cheap as the travel sites (names begin with Cheap, Price, Travel . . etc.). And if you book with United, they will help you; Southwest, they will help . . . . it works
What do you think? Will I have enough time for this connection? We're taking the Southwest Chief from LA to Chicago, arriving at 2:50 PM, and connecting to the Lake Shore Limited which is scheduled to depart at 9:30 PM. We're traveling in August. Is 6 hours enough time for this? I know you can't predict the future, but in your experience?
@Linvg it's been several years now since I've done it, but I've arrived into Chicago on the Empire Builder, had a 6 or 7 hour layover, then continued east on the Lake Shore Limited. Amtrak always considered that one to be a guaranteed connection. When the Empire Builder was 12+ hours late due to freight trains, Amtrak put those of us who missed the connection up in a hotel for the night and re-booked us on the next day's Lakeshore at no cost to us.
Question: You say the trains are often late. But they still show up, right? I have a coach ride booked for next month for a short 1-2 hour ride to see a concert. I was supposed to see the same a couple weeks ago and the Greyhound bus never showed up. I canceled next months Greyhound trip that night -- after waiting in the damn station for 11 hours! -- and went to the Amtrak station the next day. I'm hoping Amtrak won't screw me out of several hundred dollars -- motel, show ticket -- like those fraudsters at Greyhound did.
Can you tell me what side of the Silver Meteor is best view? Also, any advise as to how to take a sponge bath in coach? I feel disgusting when I don't have a morning shower, this is the draw back I'm having about my trip on the train, and i can not afford to upgrade to a roommette.
Never traveled Amtrak before we are looking to travel Florida to Pittsburgh. We have a choice for a layover in Philadelphia or Washington D.C. One is a 3 hour layover the other is a 8 hour layover. If I chose the shorter layover will I run the risk of missing the train if mine comes in late?
1. Have you ever had your GoPro record video through the window at night while you sleep (to see sights you miss while sleeping)? Is its lens sensitive enough to see anything outside during the night? 2. What do you use for recording your audio inside the train? Is it a dedicated mic, GoPro mic, or something else?? My wife and I are on the Southwest Chief (LAX to CHI) starting May 12 and the Empire Builder (CHI to SEA) starting May 22 (roomettes each way) and I was thinking of trying to video the outside sights while we slept. That is the reason for the question. Thanks Ali and Rob for a fantastic VLOG and the time you two put into it. I appreciate it!
We do video at night quite often but it isn't usually usable. It is really dark. If you are going through a big city you'd be able to see some of the stuff that is lit up, so that is really all we do. If you are in a rural area it'll just be dark. We just use the GoPro mic to keep it simple. Thanks for watching!
Question. First train ride coming up very soon. I get on at Gainesville, GA. Which is unmanned, and locked after 9:30. My train doesn’t arrive until 12:24am. I’m leery to wait on the platform at this time of night by myself. Any suggestions?
Hello, I just started watching your videos and got a lot of good advice. I want to travel from Toledo, Ohio to Seattle, Washington soon with 2 of my grandsons but I'm still not sure what train I would be catching here in Toledo and which rooms should I get, a roomette or bedroom or family bedroom. Any suggestions?
On the first train I would recommend 2 roommates. On the 2nd train you could do either 2 roommates, a family bedroom, or bedroom- how tall are your grandsons than I can help better.
We have a trip booked Chicago to Emeryville, Texas Eagle to L.A. and continue on the Coastal Starlight, with 4 1/2 hour in between.. Should I worry? With only one train a day, what happens if we miss the the Starlight that morning.. I assume since Amtrak made the reservations all the way to Emeryville there wouldn’t be a problem.. Thank you for your help…
There isn't any way to know if they'll be late, but it is possible. Odds are it'll be fine. They would take care of it and get you there, but you'd have to wait for a train the next day probably.
Can you share a link for signing up for the credit card? Trying to get to Florida but like you said book early everything is booked coming back on the auto train up here in VA
Does the train record when they are late, how much they are late? It would help to know how often on that particular route the train is late, to get a better idea of what to prepare for.
I agree that bringing your own food is the way to go for all the reasons you mention. However, I can eat Pizza for all 3 meals with no problem. Having watched many of your videos, especially the foreign ones, the Amtrak choices of American food, even if limited selection, would suit me better. Some of the meals you have highlighted in Europe, I would not be able to eat, as I am a VERY fussy eater. Everyone that knows me says that if I ever get to Europe (or elsewhere outside of the US and Canada) I should bring along jars of peanut butter and crackers. And if I should get to travel, I definitely would bring some high protein staples with me and/or purchase where possible some deli meats and cheeses and baked goods. Also I noted in many of your videos that you tend to have water, coke, juice, coffee, or tea to drink. I would follow the same formula, as most bottled beverages would be safer medically than anything not packaged or bottled. Thanks for all of your tips and suggestions.
Coach is the easiest way to keep it quite cheap, but the only other thing you can do is book as early as possible as prices go up as the train fills up.
@@OhioTravelswithKris There are many vids Allie and Rob have done on this channel, which cover just about the whole Amtrak system. Start binge watching them to see their reviews and then make your route decisions. Unless it’s a intra-region trip you’re planning, you HAVE to get thru (change trains at) Chicago. There’s lots of Amtrak routes into and out of CHI so I’d recommend you focus 1st on how you’ll get thru CHI, then plan the rest of your travel legs based on that.
@@dock_yard1149 ive watched some of them. found one from Cleveland which is the closest to me. Trying to find somewhere to go from Chi. Don't have a long time for vacation ( end of July til begin of Aug. Woujld like to do Chi- Denver or out east ?
Coach is horrible for a "trip." Do you want to share a bathroom and shower? Not me; bought second floor full bedroom with huge windows and captains chairs. Ate in dining car with white cotton table cloth and real silverware. Up to you.
I just made reservations for my sister to go from Chicago to Floridia. They gave me one price a day ago, I call back to finalize her ride and it was more money. Is that how it works, she was going to leave on the fifth of this month and we called back to make it the eighth. It had went up two hundred dollars more. We're novices at this, is this common???
Just that you aren't bringing any bags to leave with them on the train. You keep everything with you. Most major stations have checked luggage, but some really small ones don't.
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Thanks guys, us newbies to train travel need a printable check list ✅ 😉
Hmm... great idea!
Great videos, thanks! One nice thing about the downstairs roomettes- 3 bathrooms right there, rather than the 1 upstairs. Not only more access in the middle of the night, but they tend to be cleaner and less worn.
This is something I really want to do. Ever since I road coach from Baltimore to Orlando (24hr) as a child. I remember waddling through the train (mostly just because I was bored as a kid) and the first time someone showed me a sleeper car it blew my mind. I didn't even know what a "sleeper" was or that it existed.
Now I love in Vegas and I'm trying to see about going to LA and taking the Southwest Chief to Chicago and then getting on the Texas Eagle the next day to back to LA. Nice week long vacation on the rails! These tips will certainly prove useful if I can make that trip happen.
Thank you for all your information. I've been binge-watching your channel for the last couple of months and have learned so much! I plan to take a one-time round trip on Amtrak (solo senior) from LA to Brunswick, Maine in April 2023. (I hate air travel, so train it must be.) You have covered a ton of stuff that will help keep me out of trouble. I truly appreciate every piece of advice.
Thanks and have a great trip!
Great information! Thanks!
Sounds like a great trip! I did a solo trip from Chicago to New Orleans last November and loved it!
What about the rooms on the auto train? We are planning on going on the auto train in July. We have room 5. Is it upstairs or downstairs?
How was your experience?
Bedroom on the Zephyr, Denver to Sacramento, May 12-13. Looking forward to the trip.
Have a great trip! We will be on it the week before you, but in a roomette!
I had bedroom suite. on second floor. worth every penny.
We just took the California Zephyr and arrived 5 hours late to Emeryville.
We missed the commuter train from Emeryville to Fremont.
Amtrak called us a cab and paid for it.🤷♀️
Really appreciate your RUclips series. It inspired me to take the Texas Eagle from Fort Worth, Texas to Chicago this past weekend. Since it was approximately 24 hour train ride I decided to take an upper deck coach seat (which worked out great). I was on the 22 train going north bound, my coach was a bit weathered to say the least (it was not unbearable). The train was definitely more crowed going north bound on a Friday. There is not observation car , which I was aware of and I brought a cooler which allowed me to have decent meals without breaking the bank. Spent a wonderful weekend with my daughter, son in law and new grandson (for his baptism) and then took the 21 train southbound on Monday. The train was definitely not as full as coming up on the northbound train. The coach car was also a bit more freshened up. So overall, thank you for your guidance and hope to see you both on the rails. Be well and stay safe.
Hello, hope all is well. I'm an Amtrak rider and it's better not be in a hurry or be on a time schedule. I ride for leisure pleasure, not in a hurry. I love riding Amtrak, and I always get a roomlette. You guys I love, and love your videos too.
Thanks so much!
Thank you! You are so helpful and charming.
It’s really good advice to allow buffer time if you have an event or any time restriction. I have learned to do this with flights as well. In summer it might be thunderstorms and in winter there can be blizzards. Leave a good amount of time between arrival and needing to catch the train - better to spend it having a leisurely coffee, or three, rather than have a panic attack about your connection.
You are welcome, thanks for watching!
agree
Surprisingly my return trip arrived earlier than scheduled!
Once flying to NY on a Wednesday, the plane circled several times and we arrived an hour late. Explanation: This was the 1st good weather for flying all week and there was a lot of air traffic from corporate jets!
I am new to your channel, and I am really enjoying it. I've only taken one Amtrak trip in the last 15 years ago (from St. Louis to Kansas City and back), but I did several overnight trips in the 90s, including a trip from Portand, Oregon to Boston and back (with a stop @ the Grand Canyon).
The advice about not having tight connections is helpful. I try to have an attitude that if the train is late, you'll see different scenery. One trip north on the Coast Starlight, we had a great view of Mt. Shasta because the train was a couple hours late.
I have traveled coach on long trips, and one thing I found helpful is to not have consecutive nights sleeping on the coach seats. Even just one night in a real bed helps the kinks to go away.
Thank you for all of these videos!! I've just watched a bunch to prep for our cross country train trip, leaving Sunday. One thing I thought I'd add is that if you are an adult traveling with two small kids (my situation), they will book all of you into one roomette, but you have to call in to do it.
Thanks again for all the tips and help! Love the videos!
I just took a train ride to Paso Robles, from LA and it was beautiful! I definitely want to ride the rain more. All good to know, thx for sharing 🤗
I used to take the Coast Starlight down to LA. I loved going through the mountains from Klamath Falls and into Redding also. Although we did get stopped by snow one time and you have to time it so it's still light (quite a trick). But that was my favorite section.
That is really cool to see it with snow!
Thank you! Been eyeing a trip from El Paso to Seattle. Your videos are informative and entertaining.
Thanks!
Outstanding tips! Pro-tips for us amateurs! Greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
I just checked my ticket, and it says Superliner, room 2. on the Southwest Chief, at the end of the month. I'm super excited. Thank you for the update.
That is awesome! Have a great trip
Thank you both for the excellent information! We appreciate it! ☀️
You are welcome, thanks for watching!
Agree 1000 % with #1; I knew I would have trouble getting to AutoTrain on time so booked the Amtrak sponsored hotel for night before departure and had a leisure breakfast and no stress before boarding next late morning. Same with #2; ended up with a suite for 4 and most expensive room (was fine tho) as it was October and everyone heads to Florida in fall to their winter homes. And DO NOT GET A ROOM ON FIRST FLOOR. Agree 1000%.
Thanks for sharing!
I'm hoping to make a round trip from CA to Michigan. My biggest problem is understanding how to book a roomette for one and how much it will cost, best rates and times, and so on. I'm also a solo senior here. Just started watching this channel and getting lots of information is wonderful. Thanks!
PS, yes, I did this 7 months ahead of the trip. Best deal is booked months ahead.
I'm also a senior and going from ILLINOIS to California. When are you going?
Thanks for providing such valuable information. We are talking our first amtrak trip this summer on the zephyr. Thanks for everything. Good day to you both.
Glad it was helpful!
Love the channel . .. Wife & I are booked on a 14-day (7 over-night trains + 7 intermediate-hotels) trip this June. The hotel-stops in SLC, Sacramento, Portland, EastGlacier and Chicago are "buffer" / sight-seeing opportunities in-between the trains. Our one tight ( CalZ at Chicago on the 2nd Day . . .
I have watched your videos so many times . . . so THANK YOU!.
Sounds awesome! Have a great time!
I so enjoyed watching you both in this video. I love your style, your personalities, and especially how you do it all in sync. So beautiful and informative. Thank you.
Thank you so much!!
These videos are an excellent guide for first time passengers THANK YOU
Glad it was helpful!
I’m going to take my first Amtrak trip in early August riding the Cardinal from Cincinnati connecting to the Zephyr and finally the Coast Starliner to LA. Your travel guides have been most helpful and thorough covering everything I’ve wanted to know to be prepared for my trip. Your presentations are casual yet professional. Thank you for making these videos!
Thanks! and thanks for watching!
I started watching your videos after me and my husband got married and i started taking amtrak back and forth to see him as we live in different states for personal reasons. I love the train ride up to see him and back again. We eventually would love to take a train from where he is in connecticut all the way to california one day. I make the trip to visit him every 3 months or so. and honestly im not sure if im more excited for the train ride or to see him sometimes LOL
Also want to add i have to travel with a mobility scooter due to issues walking far, and i have to say each and everytime amtrak employees where EXCELLENT in helping me on and off the train, red caps always made sure i got to my train, its been all around great experience.
Thanks for all your Info i did a ride from NYC to Tampa. watched your videos on roomettes really helped with our preparations .
Glad to hear it!
I just added your website to my bookmarks. Your videos are so informational and enjoyable to watch; thank you so much for doing all you do. I love to travel and often do solo traveling so when I saw your website I kinda did a happy dance. I'm eagerly planning some trips again!
Awesome! Thank you!
Love your videos. Talking about dinner times, on our trip from Chicago to Flagstaff (Grand Canyon), they postponed dinner during the maintenance stop in Albuquerque. This was on the return trip but just something to think about. It was about a 30-45 minute stop. So all lunch/dinner reservations were moved back. Thanks for all your information!
That is really interesting, we've never seen that before, I wonder why. They might have been unhooking and lost power.
@@GroundedLifeTravel I think they had some maintenance people come on board too. They made the announcement that food service would be delayed because of maintenance. We stayed in our Roomette during the maintenance and we still had power.
@@dcrfire Maybe the maintenance was kitchen related.
I think this was one of your best videos. Thank you!
Wow, thank you!
Discovered your superb channel when we started looking into LA to Chicago. REALLY like your insights for us novice Amtrak travelers - especially the onboard accommodations. We're picking up a rental car in Chicago for our local transportation to use for a 2 week vacation. Maybe we'll grab a room in town and like you say, just enjoy the ride!
Awesome, thank you!
You guys are a great couple! Thanks for the great info ❤️
Love the video! Someday I'll be able to use these great tips :-). Just a thought or two: It may confuse people to learn Burbank CA has two stations, the Burbank Airport Station and Downtown Burbank. Most people will want the Airport one. Amtrak shares these with the LA Metro line, but unless something has changed, Amtrak does NOT always stop at the Downtown station. Ironically, Downtown has more parking. The airport station has two tiny lots along that stretch, but yeah, it's pretty tight. I totally agree on the lack of signage and not knowing which track is used.
So true, we get on at Burbank quite a bit and we still get confused!
Best channel ever! There are many channels about travelling, but the WAY you tell stuff is super interesting. Every time I want to "take a quick look", I stay for the entire video 😁
Wow, thanks! Thanks for watching!
Great information I think to use for 1st timers or folks who do not get to travel often by AMTRAK 😊.
Thanks!
I wish sites like this was around before the Digital Age. Before cell phones, passengers relied upon train schedules or ask on board staff the train's status. I remember many folks getting off at major stops & running for phone booths or Western Union telegraph offices in stations (remember those?) Times have changed dramatically and travelers are more aware than ever. Great advice. I've learned the hard way.
Thanks for sharing! Great stories
Also I'm a 'Guest Rewards' member and I enjoy the points system.
Yes, we love the points, we have quite a few trips booked with points this summer!
Even though I have the money I ride in Coach on overnight trips just to save the money. My philosophy is that if I get a lousy night's sleep for a $100 ticket I don't care,.....if I get a lousy night's sleep and it cost me $600 that would irritate me no end.I don't begrudge anyone for upgrading to a roomette or sleeper,...but,....I just rough it and save the ''Benjamins'' for where I am going.
Good point. I was on an overnight train in coach where a man sat half a car away with his family. He snored so loud, that I spent the night in the cafe car to get away from him. If he had been in a roomette next to my $600-$1000 roomette, I would have been furious.
so funny; but I slept like a baby in my second floor suite on AutoTrain and enjoyed eating in the fancy dining room (white cotton table cloth, real silverware, free wine . . .) and my own toilet and full shower (separate.). Just shows "To Each His/her Own."
great advice guys! Would love to do an Amtrak trip when my daughter is much older, the distances blow my mind sometimes - it takes me longer to get to Edinburgh from the Highlands than it does to get to London from Edinburgh (120miles vs 400miles!)
So true!
I am going on my first Amtrack ride. Thank you for your great ideas and suggestions. It’s helping a lot to get ready for my trip. 4 days, 3 nights🚂
I just completed my train trip on the Texas Eagle from Tucson, AZ to Pittsburgh, PA. 4 days and 3 nights. Sleeper car all booked. Chair for me the entire time. Never again!! So many experiences that had ups and downs. Long trips - book a sleeper early!!
Thank you for the information! I am traveling this month, but I will get Chicago a day before to avoid any problem to get the California Zypher. Also I booked a hotel in San Francisco that has 24 hours front desk service and notified them my late check in, thinking about Amtrak delays 😅
Have a great trip!
You guys are terrific. THANK YOU 😊
Thank you!
I will watch this one again. 👍
Thanks again!
This is super useful, I'm taking the Coast Starlight and then the Sunset Limited all the way from Seattle to Houston in August and I just checked and my Sunset Limited roommette is room 14 so I'm going to call to see if they can change it. Thanks!
Hmm I was told that it would cost me about $130 to switch roommettes because the price has gone up since I booked the trip a month ago. Does this sound legit? I decided against doing that. If it is the way it works I'm guessing next time I should call right away to make the switch.
Hmm.. that doesn't sound right, it should be free to just switch rooms since you aren't switching trains. We've never paid to switch to a different room. Maybe call back one more time and see if they'll do it for free.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks for the response, I'll call back on Monday and see if I get a different answer!
I applied for the Mastercard for the 20,000 points and it’s on the way 05/2024 ( we already booked our trip to New York) but that’s ok we will build up the points for the next trip! Planning on using the lounge coupon( in New York )on this trip!!!
I don’t entirely agree with your statement about the Coast Starlight train only being great views on the Southern California stretch. Yes, the coastal part is beautiful and breathtaking, especially if you can get dinner as sunset time (southbound). However, the mountain stretch and passes through the upper portion of the trip, mostly through Oregon, are just as breathtaking, especially during the late winter. And when it’s springtime, it’s equally beautiful as there are several streams and waterfalls along the route, best seen on the northbound trip. Just make sure to be on the west side of the train for the best views. And of course, the time of year also has an impact on the scenery as it gets darker earlier during the winter. Southbound in the summer makes for a nice late dinner as it will still be light out as you pass along the coast. Unfortunately, there is no lounge at Seattle. We did enjoy the lounge in LA. And the food was great throughout. Hope to see you sometime during my travels.
Love seeing the mountains in Washington too!
and Mount Shasta! On the east side of the train--I've seen it in the dawn's early light and also covered with snow in the full moon-light. Just spectacular! and it's so huge, it's visible, from the east side of the train or looking out the back of the last car, for hours and hours!
I can't wait less then 3 weeks from my trip on Zephyr. Denver to San Fran. Heading out on the 24th.
Have a great trip!
How was your trip?
Just recently found your wonderful videos and fantastic over all information. It really is very helpful with all you go over so clearly! So, with the train being late a lot of the times as you said, what do you do about renting a car? Don't rent ahead of time and wait till you arrive at your destination? I signed up for the guest rewards account. The question I have about the Amtrak Master Card, one gets reward points for all things they charge with it including items not related to using Amtrak? Everyday type charges I mean gas, groceries, restaurants etc. Thank you for your fun and great videos!
Yes, you do get those points! We do rent cars, but we make sure the location is open 4-6 hours later than we are to arrive so they won't close if the train is late.
Thank you for the video!!
Not sure how this is going to work, but I bought those plastic bags that you pack and roll out the air to see if I can get away with not having so much luggage since we are limited. Going to Austin in May from PA. Taking 3 different trains. Thankfully in Pittsburgh we can check our bags, but from Johnstown to Pitt, we carry all our luggage with us.
I love to meet up on a train. Thank you for all your valuable tips. I would be the one missing the train because no one told me to get on. Lolololo
Thanks for watching!
To both of me and my wife, the biggest Amtrak mistake is to take the Amtrak. After watching a lot of videos from your channel and other about Amtrak, we booked our 1st Amtrak trip from San Diego to Chicago a year ago. We were so excited when the day finally came last week. Sadly, our excitement turned out to be a total disaster. We were on the coach seats on the Pacific Surfliner from San Diego to Los Angles and it was actually pretty nice and comfortable. After switching to the Texas Eagle for the rest of the 3 night ride to Chicago, we were in a roomette. The room was smaller than we expected. There wasn't enough space even for our carry-on suitcases and we had to place them onto the end of our beds, which made sleeping uncomfortable. We are mid/small size person and we still find it very difficult simply on changing our clothes without having the upper bed lifted. The room was so hot, it averaged at least 85F during whole day except nighttime. The restroom on our upper deck had no ventilation at all. The toilet also won't flush after the 1st day and a half. The bathroom was so tiny that turning around inside was almost impossible. Only one to two of our meals had the quality of food as we had expected. We did not experience the kinds of hospitality from our room attendant as described by you guys in your videos. Overall, it's an extremely disappointing and terrible experience. We even considered leaving the train after the 1st night. Over a thousand dollars cost, this is our most regrettable trip. We would not do it again even being presented with a free voucher! I also had my Amtrak credit card, which I had it solely for the purpose of earning Amtrak points, cancelled immediately as I am definitely sure I won't need it anymore.
Sad to read this. Hope it was an anomaly. I'm going on my 1st trip in Sept. Emeryville to Denver to enjoy fall colors thru Rockies....
@@Gryphon999 If you are in a roomette like us, I don't see there can be any difference.. . Wishing you a wondering trip! I'd also be curious if you can let me know ours was really an anomaly after your trip:).
Hi! I love your channel and it’s been very helpful!! We are planning our first Amtrak trip … to Disney! I was hoping you could give your opinion on which station to choose… Orlando or Kissimmee:) thank you!!!
Kissimmee is smaller, but they are both pretty small, so I'd just choose whichever is closer to your hotel
@@GroundedLifeTravel thank you!
Cool deal: buy 3, get 4 free!!! Have fun!! (I know you don’t buy it that way, but it’s fun to think of it in those terms!)
It is a great deal!
So much good information in this vlog.
Thanks!
Hi can you please do a video of possible food items to take in a cooler for overnight coach, several days trip? Since there is no microwave, thank you, love your videos
Monday, April 4th I start my 6518 mile trip by train across the United States. Train 125 from Baltimore to Washington DC, Train 29 to Chicago IL, then Train 5 the famous California Zephyr. I arrive in Oakland Ca Thursday, April 7th spend a night at the Oakland Marriott, then back on the California Zephyr to do the trip back home. My only concern is the Chicago connection to Washington DC. there is 4 hours between trains and the #6 has been running 3-4 hours late. and my roomette is downstairs # 12 and 13
I also live near Baltimore and was going to almost do the exact same trip in early summer with the USA RAIL pass. I had about a 4 hour time window before I would have to switch trains in Chicago. If I get stuck I would have to improvise. I DO NOT want to have to stay over in Chicago at a hotel to wait a day or 2 for the next train. That would cost almost the same amount as the Rail Pass.
Have a great trip, and hope your connections all work out well for you!
awesome james !!! please come back to this site when done with trip; will watch for your post.
/how was your trip?
We're going on the Silver Star north in April and returning in May. Silver Meteor still suspended. We have done this route twice and checked bags without problem, but have your ever had problems with your checked bags not getting on or off the train?
I was panicking in somewhat small Winter Park, FL but the bags were removed and we got them. And impressed that the agent checked the ticket to be sure we were taking our bags and only our bags, something the airlines don't do at all!! Thanks for the info. Hoping to see you on the rails.
Thanks, no we've never had a problem with them not taking our bags off. They seem to do a real good job with that.
I would agree with Amtrak being late, except for the Acela. The reason why is Amtrak owns those tracks. Where the other trains they are at the mercy of freight companies who while supposed to give Amtrak the right away, they don't.
The northeast is much more likely to be on time!
@@GroundedLifeTravel Unless they know you're in a rush 😂 I live on the NE line and I'm convinced the Regional trains can feel your impatience on the way to the station haha
I am so glad I found your channel. It is so interesting, and really makes me want to just jump on and travel all over the country on a train. My best friend and I are considering taking a train from Charleston WV to Chicago, more than likely mid to late Sept. My best friend and her husband took a train from Charleston to CA and back, stopping a couple places for a couple days, and had an amazing time, so she suggested we take a train, rather than driving. I have a bad back (2 herniated discs) and traveling by car for long distances is hard. Wondering if you have any suggestions for me? We want to get a roomette on the way there, because it will be night, but thinking coach on the trip home, because it is cheaper, we will both be awake so we could enjoy looking out both sides of the train while saving money. Any tips you have would be appreciated.
The coach seats are pretty comfortable and do recline, so that may be of help to you on your return trip. The good part is you can get up and walk around if you need to during the trip.
If you have a bad back, I highly suggest that you bring lumbar support and good travel pillows. And definitely walk around the train so you stretch your back. And also bring ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones and eye masks
@@nataliajimenez1870 Thanks, already had lumbar pillow on my list. It's a must for traveling.
@@nataliajimenez1870 I brought earplugs and was so sorry I left them in my 'checked' bag. I had to listen to someone playing music loudly on her phone and her phone calls. I wanted to ask her to turn down the volume but I didn't because no one else did. So glad she exited 5 hours later about 10pm.
The scariest unmanned station is for the Grand Canyon from Los Angeles. You get in at 2AM. The station burned down. So all there is is a SUV waiting for you in the middle of a forest. It is even worse when you leave from Grand Canyon. Same 2 AM train time. The SUV drops you off. And then leaves. Unless someone is coming in. When I left no one was coming in from LA. So dropped off and the SUV was gone. Pretty scary standing in the woods at 2 AM hoping the train shows up.
wow; unreal. thanks for letting us know. can you imagine dropping off your son or daughter ????
Wow, thanks for sharing!
Wow, that WOULD have been scary!
What ????!!! No shelter at all!
Y’all are just sooooo helpful, I’m sooo glad y’all share all your knowledge and secrets with us newbies! Thanks again for all your videos….😊❤️
Thanks!
I also saw a woman miss a train because she expected someone to come up to her, ask her where she was going, and take her to her seat. That was at the Tacoma station, and they make more than one announcement telling passengers where they need to be-all of which she ignored. Afterward, she said, “I have tickets for that train. How dare they leave me.” I wanted to point out to her that, no matter what mode of public transportation you are using, it’s up to the passengers to get themselves where they need to be to board.
They really will leave without people! We've seen it a few times
Thanks for all the recommendations.
From Chicago to the Westcoast witch train you recommend and if it is less tired to do it in segments with stop overnight in big cities and only use the roommates accommodation for overnight travel
The most scenic route is Chicago to Emeryville on the California Zephyr. You could spend time in Chicago and San Francisco on that route. Emeryville is a suburb of San Francisco.
Thanks for this info about the upper and lower levels. Recently I got an email from Amtrak that my roomette on my upcoming trip was changed from #1 to #19, so after watching this video I went searching for some diagrams to see where I would be. I think I'm still on the upper level? In a transition sleeper car? (Southwest Chief) It's my first long train trip on Amtrak so I won't know any different. I'm excited!
I assume it is a transition sleeper car. Also do not know how you got room #1 at first since that room is usually reserved for the sleep attendent for your car.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 yes, my room ended up being in a transition sleeper car, which I loved (was empty and quiet for a lot of the time and felt very private and peaceful.) Not sure why I had #1 originally...
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 what's a "transition sleeper car"?
@@maryannpercy2879 It a sleeper car usually used for staff and transition from the 2nd floor to the 1rst floor.
I guess this time either will be half staff and half public or all public for this ride for the transition sleeper car.
Love your channel! Traveling from Marshall, TX (Texas Eagle) to Chicago, Chicago to Pittsburgh (Capitol Limited) in a few weeks. Any advice or views to be on the lookout for?
On the left going north the view of St. Louis is wonderful, don't miss that!
Thats great and all, the denver to Cali part... But im just trying to get from cincy to denver, so that's what I got to do.
Of course, if you are going to a destination, just go where you need to go!
Good tips! I've only been on one Amtrak trip but plan to do more, especially the western routes. My one trip Charlotte to NYC, I arrived an hour early (expecting a line and boarding early) but the train was 2+ hours late!. I arrived in NYC 2 hours late and fortunately didn't pre-book anything but did have to change my plans. One question: Is the multi-route pass ever coming back?
The rail pass is always available for $499 in coach
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks! Can you add a roomette or bedroom to one or more segments?
@@RichardinNC1 no sleepers can be booked with the rail pass
The master card no longer exists as of December. Sadly BoA pulled it after news came out in October Amtrak was considering switching. Such a shame as the sign on bonus was very tempting.
It was a great deal!
Any suggestions for hotel accommodations near the stations? What about a video on that topic? I want to plan a trip from Arizona to Tacoma, Wa, starting in Maricopa, Az, and I think I should plan to stay the night in LA before boarding the Coast Starlight the next day. It would be great to know what hotels you have stayed at, and your thoughts-can you walk to them, take an Uber, etc.
We have an article about that topic on our blog!
@@GroundedLifeTravel oh, thanks!
wonderful thank you
Hello, Allie and Rob. Thank you for your posts, and the helpful information. I am officially retiring, in August, and will be a full-time traveler. I was looking for where I could ask a question on your website, but was unsuccessful. I wanted to ask if you a home base? I pretty much have everything complete except determining if I need to establish a home base. Do you stay in Airbnb‘s when you are not traveling? Thank you for answering my question. I truly appreciate it.
Yes, we do most of the time stay in Airbnb's when not in a hotel. If you book them for 28 days or more you can usually get a discount. Our home base is Atlanta, which is where we are from, and our family lives too.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Awesome. Okay. I did notice the Airbnb‘s were a lot cheaper when I booked them for 28 days a more. So I will also be sure that I have an Airbnb booked for whenever I am not traveling. My homebase will be near Atlanta, but on the Alabama side of I-85. Thank you so much, and I also appreciate the inspiration for Amtrak travel. I will start my cross-country travel on Amtrak in June. I will break the travel up by region, starting in the north east out of New York. 🚊☺️
I'm planning a trip on the California Zephyr in June and your channel has been so helpful in preparing. We have bedroom B reserved. Will that be upstairs or down? Also, you indicated that we'll want to be on the 'south side' for views. If going from Chicago to Emeryville, is that the left or right? Thanks again for your expertise!
That will be upstairs if you are in a bedroom, they are all upstairs. You won't know which side you are on until you get on, because they can switch the sides, but the bedrooms are all on the same side so they are usually on the good side. Roomettes are the bigger concern, in a bedroom you should be all set!
@@GroundedLifeTravel Awesome! Your prompt reply and info is very much appreciated. Keep up the great work!
When I hear stories like the one you recounted at the beginning of the video, it frustrates me to no end. Companies really should be more accommodating for situations like these where through no fault of the customer, they are forced to go elsewhere to get their car. It is in the system that you were booked for a reservation at x location and they can verify the train delay. My husband works for a national motel chain and he related a situation where a customer had booked a reservation more than a year in advance for a certain rate, but then went online and made a change to the room type. The original reservation was not cancelled and re-booked, just a change to an existing reservation. This caused the rate to be changed to the current price which was 4 times higher.
If I understand the process it’s valuable to book your entire trip on one ticket or a multi train ticket ( not separate independent legs),so if one train is late (missed connection) Amtrak will take care of you via rebooking or hotel stays
Yes, that is correct. We almost always book separate trips, but we put a day or two in between them so it doesn't matter.
yup; I booked by calling Amtrak so I could ask the one million questions I had . . . .same with a flight; the major air carriers themselves can be just as cheap as the travel sites (names begin with Cheap, Price, Travel . . etc.). And if you book with United, they will help you; Southwest, they will help . . . . it works
What do you think? Will I have enough time for this connection? We're taking the Southwest Chief from LA to Chicago, arriving at 2:50 PM, and connecting to the Lake Shore Limited which is scheduled to depart at 9:30 PM. We're traveling in August. Is 6 hours enough time for this? I know you can't predict the future, but in your experience?
my guess is "yes."
Yes, my best guess is it will be fine, but you'd really never know.
@Linvg it's been several years now since I've done it, but I've arrived into Chicago on the Empire Builder, had a 6 or 7 hour layover, then continued east on the Lake Shore Limited. Amtrak always considered that one to be a guaranteed connection. When the Empire Builder was 12+ hours late due to freight trains, Amtrak put those of us who missed the connection up in a hotel for the night and re-booked us on the next day's Lakeshore at no cost to us.
Thanks for sharing as a tourist to the US which trip do you suggest is best for a 1st time train trip also are the trains safe
I'd love to know, too
Question: You say the trains are often late. But they still show up, right? I have a coach ride booked for next month for a short 1-2 hour ride to see a concert. I was supposed to see the same a couple weeks ago and the Greyhound bus never showed up. I canceled next months Greyhound trip that night -- after waiting in the damn station for 11 hours! -- and went to the Amtrak station the next day. I'm hoping Amtrak won't screw me out of several hundred dollars -- motel, show ticket -- like those fraudsters at Greyhound did.
Can you tell me what side of the Silver Meteor is best view? Also, any advise as to how to take a sponge bath in coach? I feel disgusting when I don't have a morning shower, this is the draw back I'm having about my trip on the train, and i can not afford to upgrade to a roommette.
Never traveled Amtrak before we are looking to travel Florida to Pittsburgh. We have a choice for a layover in Philadelphia or Washington D.C. One is a 3 hour layover the other is a 8 hour layover. If I chose the shorter layover will I run the risk of missing the train if mine comes in late?
1. Have you ever had your GoPro record video through the window at night while you sleep (to see sights you miss while sleeping)? Is its lens sensitive enough to see anything outside during the night? 2. What do you use for recording your audio inside the train? Is it a dedicated mic, GoPro mic, or something else?? My wife and I are on the Southwest Chief (LAX to CHI) starting May 12 and the Empire Builder (CHI to SEA) starting May 22 (roomettes each way) and I was thinking of trying to video the outside sights while we slept. That is the reason for the question. Thanks Ali and Rob for a fantastic VLOG and the time you two put into it. I appreciate it!
We do video at night quite often but it isn't usually usable. It is really dark. If you are going through a big city you'd be able to see some of the stuff that is lit up, so that is really all we do. If you are in a rural area it'll just be dark. We just use the GoPro mic to keep it simple. Thanks for watching!
I would like to go from Boston to Phoenix Arizona, any advice?
You need to take the Lake Shore Limited to Chicago and then go to Phoenix from there
Question. First train ride coming up very soon. I get on at Gainesville, GA. Which is unmanned, and locked after 9:30. My train doesn’t arrive until 12:24am. I’m leery to wait on the platform at this time of night by myself. Any suggestions?
Hello, I just started watching your videos and got a lot of good advice. I want to travel from Toledo, Ohio to Seattle, Washington soon with 2 of my grandsons but I'm still not sure what train I would be catching here in Toledo and which rooms should I get, a roomette or bedroom or family bedroom. Any suggestions?
On the first train I would recommend 2 roommates. On the 2nd train you could do either 2 roommates, a family bedroom, or bedroom- how tall are your grandsons than I can help better.
Do you get to change your mealtime each day?
Yes it will change each day, you can ask for whatever time you'd like
We have a trip booked Chicago to Emeryville, Texas Eagle to L.A. and continue on the Coastal Starlight, with 4 1/2 hour in between.. Should I worry? With only one train a day, what happens if we miss the the Starlight that morning.. I assume since Amtrak made the reservations all the way to Emeryville there wouldn’t be a problem.. Thank you for your help…
There isn't any way to know if they'll be late, but it is possible. Odds are it'll be fine. They would take care of it and get you there, but you'd have to wait for a train the next day probably.
Can you share a link for signing up for the credit card? Trying to get to Florida but like you said book early everything is booked coming back on the auto train up here in VA
I think they have temporarily stopped accepting new signups for the card. There isn't anywhere to sign up that we can see right now
What is a family bedroom
Do you have the link for the Mastercard?
Does the train record when they are late, how much they are late? It would help to know how often on that particular route the train is late, to get a better idea of what to prepare for.
I've never seen that info anywhere
I agree that bringing your own food is the way to go for all the reasons you mention. However, I can eat Pizza for all 3 meals with no problem. Having watched many of your videos, especially the foreign ones, the Amtrak choices of American food, even if limited selection, would suit me better. Some of the meals you have highlighted in Europe, I would not be able to eat, as I am a VERY fussy eater. Everyone that knows me says that if I ever get to Europe (or elsewhere outside of the US and Canada) I should bring along jars of peanut butter and crackers. And if I should get to travel, I definitely would bring some high protein staples with me and/or purchase where possible some deli meats and cheeses and baked goods. Also I noted in many of your videos that you tend to have water, coke, juice, coffee, or tea to drink. I would follow the same formula, as most bottled beverages would be safer medically than anything not packaged or bottled. Thanks for all of your tips and suggestions.
How easy is it to manipulate a wheel chair around a train
Hubby and I are planning on doing a train trip this summer. Would like to keep it to a budget price . Any help appreciated
Coach is the easiest way to keep it quite cheap, but the only other thing you can do is book as early as possible as prices go up as the train fills up.
@@GroundedLifeTravel ok thanks. What route would you suggest? We ant to do at least an overnight- type ?
@@OhioTravelswithKris There are many vids Allie and Rob have done on this channel, which cover just about the whole Amtrak system. Start binge watching them to see their reviews and then make your route decisions. Unless it’s a intra-region trip you’re planning, you HAVE to get thru (change trains at) Chicago. There’s lots of Amtrak routes into and out of CHI so I’d recommend you focus 1st on how you’ll get thru CHI, then plan the rest of your travel legs based on that.
@@dock_yard1149 ive watched some of them. found one from Cleveland which is the closest to me. Trying to find somewhere to go from Chi. Don't have a long time for vacation ( end of July til begin of Aug. Woujld like to do Chi- Denver or out east ?
Coach is horrible for a "trip." Do you want to share a bathroom and shower? Not me; bought second floor full bedroom with huge windows and captains chairs. Ate in dining car with white cotton table cloth and real silverware. Up to you.
When you get your point do you have a time limit to use them do they carry on like next year
I think they carry over as long as you are active, we've never had any expire, but then again we are pretty active!
What is "south side"? Which side should you choose if you take Zephyr to California?
You can't really choose a side when you book, so you just get assigned one or the other
I just made reservations for my sister to go from Chicago to Floridia. They gave me one price a day ago, I call back to finalize her ride and it was more money. Is that how it works, she was going to leave on the fifth of this month and we called back to make it the eighth. It had went up two hundred dollars more. We're novices at this, is this common???
Do points work on bedrooms?
Yes they do, we use all of our points to get roomettes usually
First timer here and I wish I knew about purchasing sooner rather than later. The price increased $200 for my trip! 😔
It can make a big difference
What does no checked luggage mean
Just that you aren't bringing any bags to leave with them on the train. You keep everything with you. Most major stations have checked luggage, but some really small ones don't.
Does it make sense to stretch your legs at the 15-20 minute stops at larger stations?
Yes, we always do, the fresh air is good, and a chance to walk around. We almost always get off
Are the family bedrooms typically noisy? Got a family bedroom superliner later this month and I've never taken a train trip