
Amtrak is a rail service that provides three different types of services: long-distance, intermediate-distance, and the Northeast Corridor. While some people enjoy travelling on Amtrak, others find it tedious and boring. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of travelling on Amtrak and help you decide if it is a good way to travel.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Safety | Statistically safe, with very few accidents |
Price | Comparable to air travel, but cheaper for short-distance routes |
Punctuality | Delays are common, especially on long-distance routes |
Comfort | Seats are comfortable and spacious, but trains are often crowded |
Entertainment | Limited entertainment options, but free Wi-Fi is available on most routes |
Food | Food options are limited and of low quality |
Scenery | Scenery varies depending on the route, but can be boring on some routes |
Customer Service | The quality of customer service is inconsistent |
What You'll Learn
Amtrak's pros and cons
Amtrak Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comfort: Amtrak seats are comfortable and spacious, with ample legroom. They are also assigned, so you don't have to rush to get a good seat.
- Safety: Statistically, Amtrak is much safer than driving.
- Scenery: Long-distance Amtrak trains offer passengers the opportunity to see stunning landscapes and towns across America.
- Convenience: There are no security lines, and baggage handling is free at 12 major stations.
- Productivity: The long travel times can be used productively, with electrical plugs available to charge devices.
- Discounts: Amtrak offers discounts for children, seniors, military personnel, and more.
- Quiet Cars: Several lines have one car per train where passengers adhere to a library-like atmosphere.
- Rewards Program: The Amtrak Guest Rewards Program offers benefits such as reward travel, hotel stays, car rentals, and gift cards.
Cons
- Delays: Amtrak trains often experience delays, sometimes lasting several hours.
- Speed: Amtrak trains are generally much slower than flying or driving, with some trains barely reaching 40 mph.
- Cost: Long-distance routes can be expensive, and the food and beverage options on board are limited and overpriced.
- Cleanliness: Bathrooms can get dirty and develop an unpleasant odour during the journey.
- Customer Service: Some passengers have reported rude and unprofessional behaviour from Amtrak staff.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available on some routes but may be unreliable.
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Is Amtrak good value for money?
Amtrak is a rail service that is often compared to flying or driving. While it may not be the fastest or most luxurious way to travel, there are several benefits to choosing Amtrak that could make it good value for money.
Cost
The cost of travelling by Amtrak is often comparable to flying. For example, a train ticket from Detroit to Raleigh costs around $140 to $150, which is the same price as a flight for the same route. However, it is important to note that the train journey takes 23 hours, whereas the flight only takes 4 hours. Therefore, if you are looking for a quick way to get from point A to point B, Amtrak may not be the best option.
That being said, there are ways to save money when travelling by Amtrak. Booking your trip at least three to four weeks in advance can give you drastically lower fares, often 50% less than what you'll see within two weeks of your departure date. Additionally, Amtrak offers a variety of discounts, such as a 10% discount for those aged 65 and over, and half-price fares for children between the ages of 2 and 12 (infants under 2 ride for free).
Comfort
Amtrak trains offer more legroom and wider seats when compared to airplanes. However, the difference in comfort may not be significant enough to justify the longer travel time. For longer trips, you can book a sleeper room, which includes a bed, a private bathroom, and meals. While this option offers more comfort and convenience, it comes at a higher price.
Convenience
Travelling by Amtrak can be more convenient than flying in some aspects. There is minimal security for luggage, and you can simply drag your suitcases onto the train and heave them into the luggage racks. Additionally, you can bring your own food and entertainment on board, which can save you money and provide a more enjoyable journey. However, it is important to note that there are limited dining options available on board, and the quality may not be great.
Another benefit of Amtrak is that it offers a free baggage handling service called Red Cap at 12 major stations nationwide. This service can assist you with your bags and allow you to board the train early to choose your seat.
Scenery
One of the biggest advantages of travelling by Amtrak is the opportunity to see the American landscape and towns along the way. This can be especially enjoyable on long-distance routes, such as the California Zephyr, which offers stunning views of canyons and countryside. However, it is important to manage your expectations, as some routes may not offer much in terms of scenery.
Punctuality
Amtrak's punctuality can vary depending on the route. The Northeast Corridor trains between Boston and Washington, D.C. are known for being quite punctual, while long-distance trains are often delayed. It is recommended to assume that your train will be late and plan accordingly, especially for long-distance travel.
Safety
Amtrak is considered a safe way to travel, with very few crashes or incidents of crime reported. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Overall Experience
The overall experience of travelling by Amtrak can vary greatly depending on your expectations and preferences. Some people enjoy the relaxed pace and the opportunity to meet interesting people, while others find the long travel times and delays frustrating. It is important to manage your expectations and understand that Amtrak may not be the best option for last-minute travel or if you are on a tight schedule.
In conclusion, whether or not Amtrak is good value for money depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a convenient, scenic, and relatively affordable way to travel, Amtrak may be a good option. However, if you prioritize speed, luxury, and punctuality, you may be disappointed.
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How does Amtrak compare to other forms of travel?
Amtrak is a rail service that offers a different experience to plane or car travel. It is often preferred to these other modes of transport due to the lack of security lines and traffic, as well as wider seats and more legroom. However, it does have its drawbacks, with some complaining about ticket fares, a lack of luxury offerings, and boarding and exiting frenzies.
When compared to train travel in other parts of the world, such as Europe, Amtrak falls short. European trains are faster, more frequent, electrified, and usually on time. They are also more comfortable, with better seats and more legroom, and the food is better too. That being said, Amtrak does cover large distances, and the California Zephyr from the Bay Area to Chicago, for example, is further than a train from Paris to Istanbul. So, while it may not be as efficient as European trains, it does cover more ground.
For those who are used to driving, Amtrak can be a frustrating experience. It can take much longer to get from one place to another, and the trains are often delayed. For example, a trip from Sarasota, Florida to Jacksonville, Florida can take around 4 hours by car, but by train, it would take around 7 hours.
However, one advantage of Amtrak is that it is generally considered safe. There are also some perks, such as the ability to earn points and the availability of discounts for certain groups, like seniors and military personnel.
Overall, Amtrak is a convenient option for some, especially those who live in the Northeast Corridor and commute daily. It can also be a good choice for those who want to see the country and meet people along the way. But, for those who are looking for a quick and efficient way to get from point A to point B, there are better options available.
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What are the best Amtrak routes?
There are several "best" Amtrak routes depending on what you are looking for in a train journey.
The California Zephyr is a popular route for those seeking scenic views. This route takes three days to travel from Chicago to San Francisco, with views of the Midwest, Omaha, Denver, the Great Salt Lake, Nebraska's Great Plains, and the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.
The Empire Builder is another route that offers beautiful scenery. This route travels from Chicago to either Seattle or Portland, taking you through the Mississippi River, Glacier National Park, the North Dakota Plains, and wildlife throughout Montana.
The Coast Starlight is a daily route between Los Angeles and Seattle, passing through Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland. This route offers stunning views of the Cascade Range and the Pacific Ocean coastline.
The Pacific Surfliner is a well-loved train ride in California, with daily routes between Santa Barbara, Irvine, and San Clemente. This route offers views of the Pacific Ocean and the rolling California hills.
The Adirondack is a daily route from New York City to Montreal, travelling through the wine country of the Hudson Valley.
The Lake Shore Limited service operates between Chicago and New York City, following some of the prettiest shorelines in the United States.
The Northeast Regional trains offer a comfortable and enjoyable way to travel throughout the Northeast Corridor and beyond, with convenient and affordable service.
Each of these routes offers something unique and memorable, whether it's scenic views, convenient connections, or a comfortable travelling experience.
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Is Amtrak a safe way to travel?
Amtrak is a safe way to travel. In fact, it is considered safer than the "great American road trip". Derailments are exceedingly rare, and there is little to no crime or train accidents. However, some passengers have reported being harassed by Amtrak workers, and there are also reports of dirty bathrooms, delays, and rude staff.
While Amtrak may be a safe way to travel, it does have its drawbacks. For example, the trains are often delayed, and the interiors are outdated and uncomfortable. The food is also reportedly terrible, and the Wi-Fi is unreliable.
Despite these issues, Amtrak can still be a good option for those who want to see the country and meet a variety of people. It is also a good choice for those who are looking for a more affordable option, as ticket prices can be cheaper than flying, especially when booked in advance. Additionally, there is more legroom and wider seats compared to airplanes, and the views along the way can be spectacular.
Overall, while Amtrak may not be the most luxurious or efficient way to travel, it is a safe and affordable option for those who want to take their time and enjoy the journey.
Tips for Travelling on Amtrak
- Book your trip at least three to four weeks in advance to get lower fares, often 50% less than last-minute bookings.
- Take advantage of discounts for children, seniors, military personnel, and veterans.
- Check out the deals section on the Amtrak website for special offers and reduced fares.
- Join the Amtrak Guest Rewards program to earn points and redeem them for reward travel, hotels, car rentals, and gift cards.
- Opt for the Red Cap service, a free baggage handling service available at 12 major stations.
- Consider travelling in the Quiet Car if you want to avoid loud conversations and phone calls.
- Be prepared for delays and plan your connections accordingly.
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Frequently asked questions
Amtrak is not a good option for long-distance travel. The trains are often delayed, and the journey can take over twice as long as travelling by car. However, if you're looking for a scenic route and don't mind a slow journey, it could be a good option.
Yes, Amtrak trains are very safe. They are a much safer mode of transportation than driving and rarely encounter accidents.
Amtrak trains have comfortable seats with ample legroom. However, the bathrooms tend to get dirty during the journey, and the trains can be bumpy and noisy.
Yes, food is available on Amtrak trains, but the quality is poor. It is typically packaged and microwaved, and there is a limited selection.
Amtrak can be a good alternative to flying if you are looking for a more scenic and relaxing journey. However, it is not ideal for those who want to get to their destination quickly, as the trains are often delayed and may take much longer than flying.