8 Things First Time Amtrak Riders Get Wrong

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 มี.ค. 2024
  • In this video we are sharing the 8 things first time Amtrak riders get wrong. There are many things that can ruin your trip or make it less fun. We share some of the things we got wrong on our first ride so you can learn from our mistakes.
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ความคิดเห็น • 353

  • @scottwendt9575
    @scottwendt9575 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +171

    I would disagree with one thing. If all you are going to do is work on your laptop, be courteous to other passengers. The seats with big windows in the Superlounge are in very short supply. If you are more concerned with working on your laptop, stay in your seat or take seats on the lower level where it will be quieter anyway. Let people who want to view our beautiful country have a chance at the big windows.

    • @edjohnson9989
      @edjohnson9989 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Wahhhhhhh 😢
      I’ll sit there on my laptop and check out the scenery…: lol no one likes to work in a dark room right.? Lol

    • @wtflmaa7842
      @wtflmaa7842 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

      @@edjohnson9989You have no idea. Once I had a co-worker who eventually had sufficient seniority to get a window office with beautiful scenery outside. And what did he do? He covered the windows with dense, black fabric. Some people you will never understand.

    • @digitalnomad9985
      @digitalnomad9985 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +20

      @@edjohnson9989Stunning lack of self awareness. Some people like to have their attention drawn to things they might not have considered so they don't inconvenience people accidentally. Nobody's whining. The post was a PSA for decent people. If it's not addressed to you, don't open it.

    • @TravelswithLlama
      @TravelswithLlama 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +27

      On our last trip through the Sierra Nevadas, the conductor ran off folks who were working on their laptops from the sight-seeing car. They could stay awhile but then had to leave. Same if they were napping. Especially if the train is full, they will move folks along so others can use the space.

    • @enmodo
      @enmodo 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Sharing is caring! ​@@TravelswithLlama

  • @alexclement7221
    @alexclement7221 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +71

    6:38: Showing up too early: If you have a sleeper, you can use the lounges at major train stations like Penn station and Union Station, Chicago. They have nice, comfortable seats and free food, and they will announce when your train is ready to board, and even take you to the train.

    • @odess4sd4d
      @odess4sd4d 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

      This was my first time mistake as a sleeper passenger. I didn't know about the separate lounge and just went through the regular cattle chute boarding.

    • @raymond8528
      @raymond8528 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Exactly I love to chill for few hours in New York Station and now 2 years ago they made a new one which is even better so love it. But yes intermediate stops sucks especially the unstaffed ones.

    • @raymond8528
      @raymond8528 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      ​@odess4sd4d Yep I loved the NY acela one but the new Monhihan one is better and u get actual food instead snacks. Heard they have showers also but u have to ask since it's locked

    • @mbwyatt1978
      @mbwyatt1978 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @@odess4sd4d I feel your pain, or naivety ... my first couple of times flying business in Australia (just cashing in points to feel a wee special) ... I never knew there was a dedicated business lounge with free food and beverages. And we're talking decent food and open bar for those inclined. A work colleague got a lot of miles out of that story after she showed me the business lounge before a four hour flight one time.

    • @johnandrus3901
      @johnandrus3901 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      Good point. Also, if you are a sleeping car passenger getting a connecting train, say from Philly to NYC, where you will get your sleeper, you can use the First Class lounge in Philly. Like Washington, Philadelphia's lounge has mostly drinks and snacks, unlike Moynihan in NYC, which has a nice assortment of sandwiches, wraps and salads, etc. They also have a full bar in NYC, although it isn't free, but is reasonable. When you pay for first class, use everything that is available to you.

  • @kenmcdonaldii3887
    @kenmcdonaldii3887 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +22

    We were 9.5hrs late going from Sacramento to Chicago. Plan accordingly! Reasons: rubber tires on the tracks that disconnected the lines between the cars, freight trains take priority, train stopped in a town where a passenger was removed from the train, break checks needing to be performed, conductor/crew reached allotted hours and could no longer drive the train had to wait for the west bound train to deliver a fresh/rested crew (in the middle of nowhere), engine issues….etc. honestly, we couldn’t make this stuff up - but it happens. Our room (bedroom A) was so cold because of the air conditioning that our car attendant kept extra rolls of duct tape and covered the vent in the ceiling and all of the cracks with air coming in. We called the trip the “polar express”. Now with all that being said, in April we are taking the Empire Builder, room E from Seattle to Chicago. With everything we experienced previously, it is still a great way to see the country.

    • @nancyharman4795
      @nancyharman4795 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Murphy's Law!!! 😅

    • @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm
      @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@nancyharman4795 As a real Murphy, I should object to your comment but, since it is my only claim to success, I thank you for mentioning it..

  • @rickpawl
    @rickpawl 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +34

    Regarding the rocking or bouncy motion of the train being more noticeable on the lower level, that’s exactly backwards. The higher up you are in a train, or a cruise ship for that matter, the more side to side or “sway” motion you will feel. It is a little noisier on the lower level, though not significantly, but in terms of motion the upper level is actually more pronounced, again, not significantly. I have ridden each of the Western trains hundreds of times over 30 years, both in the lower and the upper rooms, and I know this to be true.
    It’s simply a matter of physics.
    The best thing you can do to get the smoothest, quietest ride possible is to try and reserve rooms that are in the middle of the car as opposed to rooms over the trucks “wheels”, which are to some degree rougher and noisier than rooms between the wheels.
    Also, in my hundreds of train trips, more often than not the trains were on time or within an hour of on time. But yes, sometimes they are definitely late, so it’s true, you cannot count on your train arriving on time.

    • @grayrabbit2211
      @grayrabbit2211 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      +1. Same for the beds as well, with the upper bunk getting more motion than the lower one.

    • @rickpawl
      @rickpawl 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      @@grayrabbit2211 Exactly right.

    • @mbwyatt1978
      @mbwyatt1978 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Finally someone recognising the centre of the carriage away from the vestibule and bogies/wheels/trucks will give you a better ride. As when you are in the centre you are the furthest away from the two main stress points of the wheel mechanisms and the carriage couplings. I actually feel Vloggers need to do a dedicated video on this topic. One thing that irks me is someone saying the ride was bumpy, but, not understanding their seat/cabin location plays a big part in your experience (especially if you have the luxury of picking your placement).

    • @schex9
      @schex9 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      True about physics, but the lower level is also more in direct contact with wheels, so you feel the bumps more than upper level. Also, since much of lower level is baggage storage, it is sort of lonely and cramped on lower. To me, lower is just for people who cannot negotiate stairs.

    • @muddobber6863
      @muddobber6863 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yeah, that didn't make sense,from a physics perspective.

  • @darlenemscott
    @darlenemscott 5 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I love your channel! I had an awful experience on my last plane trip and I would like to take the train to multiple places now. I'm super nervous but your videos make me believe that I will be fine and have way more comfort in those chairs. Thanks for great content!

  • @MargretRoberts
    @MargretRoberts 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    Thank you Allie and Rob! I’m on my first multi-segment trip down the east coast and, having watched all of your videos for the past year, I felt that I was very well prepared. Used my Amtrak MC lounge pass for the Metropolitan lounge in NY and LOVED it! You are so right about the spotty cell coverage south of DC - luckily I had downloaded a book to get me through that stretch. A shout-out to the awesome Amtrak employees - great service!

  • @neetard7360
    @neetard7360 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    I'm about to move halfway across the country in nothing more than an Amtrak, wish me luck & that they'll let me bring a wheeled utility cart as a carry on y'all 😂

  • @ronclark9724
    @ronclark9724 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    I bring a power strip to keep my iPad tablet charged, whether coach or roomette. While with an overnight train journey I book a roomette to sleep better, if the train journey is during the day only I book coach. When connecting with another train I spend a day/night at that city and catch the next train the next day. Enjoy that city for a day/night, visit some museums or restaurants/clubs. But most of all, always book to get to your final destination a day earlier than you need to be there. A wedding, graduation, funeral, birthday, or anniversary. If you do this simple get there one day early recommendation, you won't fret over any of the delays that pop up... All it takes is for one of the axles wheel bearings on any train car to get very hot to delay your train ten hours or more... If not your train, the freight train ahead of your train... While there aren't that many axles on a passenger train, most of these mainline freight trains have over one hundred freight cars...

  • @YonkersNY3636
    @YonkersNY3636 28 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    My friend & I learned our lesson from sharing a roomette from Chicago to Flagstaff, AZ. We now each book a roomette across from each other. Perfect!
    Earplugs or noise cancelling buds help with all of the horn blowing at road crossings, sometimes every 1/2 hr. or more, to sleep a little more soundly. (pun intended)

  • @annmarie7057
    @annmarie7057 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +44

    I was so surprised out of 8 trains on my trip only 2 were late, The Cardinal 4 hours late which left me 1 minute to connect to the Northeast Regional, then NE Regional was 1 hour late. So yes! I agree with you don't think you are going to be on time. Your videos prepared me for this issue, so thank you!! I agree on sitting on bottom, I had to sit on bottom of Pacfic Surfliner and it is way different than upper level. I would also make a suggestion to bring some cleaning wipes, I found some of my roommates and bedrooms needed a little TLC. Again thank you for your videos, I did 8 trains in 11 days, East Coast to West Coast and back, Solo! It was the BEST trip I have ever taken and I am eager to go again.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Amtrak pads the schedule a half hour to an hour depending upon the route from the next to last stop to the final stop. But that doesn't help the previous stops on the route where trains are most likely late even though they arrived at the final stop on time... .

    • @DaxxTerryGreen
      @DaxxTerryGreen 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Do you know a Daxx?

  • @beth2721
    @beth2721 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Your channel is so helpful! I’m riding coach from NOLA to La sometime in a couple months. I was really nervous so I want to be as prepared as possible and your channel has been a great help!!

  • @adriennegordonfagler7959
    @adriennegordonfagler7959 4 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Thank you! We have received our Amtrak credit card because of your advice.

  • @cindyjones233
    @cindyjones233 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    This is AWESOME Information!!! All of it!! So important to know!!

  • @markfisher1392
    @markfisher1392 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

    Many great points! Regarding checked baggage: If you're on a long trip and have big, heavy suitcases (50 lb. limit per suitcase, and they WILL weigh it) and you don't check them, you may have to lift it/them up into your car's luggage rack, wrestle it into place if it's nearly full, or keep it in your room. Let Amtrak do the lifting! Of course, pack an overnight bag with essentials (medicine, snacks, chargers/power strip, anything you may need if you're in a sleeper) as you won't have any access to your checked luggage en route. Also, many rural and smaller cities on long-haul routes don't have checked baggage service, any many regional "feeder" trains don't have checked baggage service at all (even if long-haul trains on the same route do.)

    • @scottwendt9575
      @scottwendt9575 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      A point of courtesy would be not to overload the onboard luggage racks if you are going to a station with checked baggage. Remember many passengers using the LDTs are taking the only public transportation available to them and are getting off at stations without checked baggage available. They HAVE to carry on their bags and if you are taking luggage space on a full train they may not be able to bring their bag. I once witnessed someone having to quickly instruct a family member how to FedEx their luggage because the train was completely full, behind schedule and we were at a station with no agent and only a 30 second stop.

  • @RichardinNC1
    @RichardinNC1 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Good points! My 1 time on Amtrak was to catch the 1am Crescent in Charlotte. It didn’t arrive until after 3am! Unfortunately I didn’t nap during the wait and was wide awake for an hour after boarding. Very little sleep that night, and 3 hours late arrival into NYC! Good thing I didn’t plan for an immediate tour upon arriving.

  • @josephconner4756
    @josephconner4756 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

    I took Amtrak a couple of times going from Savannah GA to Jacksonville Florida visiting my brother and it's was a smooth trip. I eat in the snack bar.

  • @catreader9733
    @catreader9733 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    Regarding speakers in Viewliner sleeping cars, so far we are .000 for in-room speakers working. So being prepared by knowing your route and knowing that there are speakers in the halls of sleeping cars really helps. We were able to get anything vital from the speaker in the hall, but one of them was faulty, too. Our only loss was missing out on a fresh air break that I really wanted, because we weren't prepared for the stop to be a longer one. I did get to step out, walk a quick circlet, and then board again--in my bedroom slippers. 😊

  • @marzymarrz5172
    @marzymarrz5172 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    The quality of your film is superb. Pretty colors outdoors and on the train.

  • @johnedgar7956
    @johnedgar7956 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Thank you for sharing this really useful info! I appreciated this. 🙂

  • @ddrennon
    @ddrennon 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This is the kind of practical, useful content I was looking for. Thanks!

  • @annbolandloveslife
    @annbolandloveslife 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

    Thank you so much for sharing this. It took me a long time to learn that coach had a wall outlet and that didn't always need to check my bag (for the places I was going). These types of videos are extremely helpful.

  • @A-Michele
    @A-Michele 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I'm lucky that my two 12 hour train rides were less than 30 minutes late and it wasn't too late at night. I had a family member and boyfriend pick me up so no worries but that's good to know.

  • @KarlaBundy
    @KarlaBundy 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    thank you for your super helpful videos!

  • @thelove9617
    @thelove9617 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    I love your channel! My family and I are preparing for our first Amtrak journey and you guys have been so helpful!

  • @bobhepburn2307
    @bobhepburn2307 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +16

    There are some advantages to the downstairs roomettes. There are more bathrooms (3 vs. 1). They are closer to the shower. They are closer to the exit for fresh air breaks. They are closer to the luggage racks if you want something out of your suitcase. A disadvantage not mentioned is that the family room is downstairs, so sometimes there will be small children making noise in the hall.

    • @johnniewelbornjr.8940
      @johnniewelbornjr.8940 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

      Good points and being downstairs also means less foot-traffic since those walking from car to car are upstairs, which offsets the potential noise from a family room.
      I also tend to disagree with their thoughts on there being more motion downstairs, for I have found the opposite to be true. In reality, there is more sway upstairs than downstairs. I've never had any issue sleeping on either level, though.

    • @BoratWanksta
      @BoratWanksta 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Another advantage is that due to most passengers crossing between cars on the upstairs level, the downstairs level will be quieter late at night.

    • @videodistro
      @videodistro หลายเดือนก่อน

      That was better information than what I got from the video. Thanks!

    • @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm
      @WilliamMurphy-uv9pm หลายเดือนก่อน

      And, you have to walk up and down those very narrow, winding staircase to get anywhere else on the train like the cafe, lounge, or diner.

  • @craigw.scribner6490
    @craigw.scribner6490 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    As a one-time Amtrak traveler, I had to learn all of these things on my own. Thanks for sharing them ahead of time for all of the newbies!

  • @fluorite1965
    @fluorite1965 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    First time I took Amtrak it hit some big rocks that fell off a cliff.The train set still on the tracks for over 3 hours while they inspected the damage.

  • @josephconner4756
    @josephconner4756 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

    Y'all two are very knowledgeable about Amtrak Trains.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      It doesn't take long before Amtrak passengers learn the train will most likely arrive late, maybe even very late... At a connecting train city spend the night at a hotel and catch the next train the next day... Enjoy that city for the day/night... There is much to do visiting a city from museums to restaurants... It doesn't matter which connecting city... At Chicago there are numerous museums near downtown and the navy pier as well as many restaurants to enjoy. Frankly you could spend more than a day there easily...

  • @pattyk734
    @pattyk734 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

    The reason trains are late can be because Amtrak shares the tracks with the freight trains and they have right of way. Also the tracks can change shape depending on weather. Hot weather will cause tracks to bend slowing the train.

    • @fortyofforty5257
      @fortyofforty5257 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Also because in certain areas, people place debris on the tracks. I've been stuck for over an hour when the train ran over a shopping cart outside Baltimore. The cars had to be checked for damage, and metal pieces removed. Power gets turned off, too, in those situations.

  • @Esperantisto
    @Esperantisto 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    Thanks for all of your videos. I rode Amtrak previously, but we planned a big trip out west (Chicago, Denver, SF, LA) on Amtrak using your advice. The Amtrak credit card bonus paid for the Den-SF leg and we got companion coupons for the other 2. All in, it was just over $800 for 2 in roomette the whole way. Your advice (and having seen what the trains, rooms, cars, etc would look like) led to us making all the right choices and having a fantastic trip!

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      The best Amtrak promotion is the 30 day RAIL PASS riding in coach... Even if you only have a week or two instead of a month, it is still a good deal... I plan several short Amtrak trips using the Rail Pass without doing a overnight trip on the east coast where there are more trains to choose from without riding overnight... From Canada to the Carolinas and back to Maine, with many stops in between...

  • @kitsune9726
    @kitsune9726 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

    Re: Checked baggage on Superliners.
    Don't be like the family of four on a Southwest Chief out of LAX a couple years ago. Perhaps they were ultimately going on a cruise or something -- although they got off in Kansas City -- but they brought so much baggage with them, they filled the entire luggage rack on the car. The rest of us had to stow our one or two suitcases on the much smaller rack and floor in the downstairs seating area. Fortunately there were only a couple people seated in that section so they were not adversely impacted.

  • @stevedachelet8106
    @stevedachelet8106 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    First Amtrak trip coming up. Your videos helped me decide to give it a try. Myself and my twin 12 year old boys going Mke-Chicago-St Louis for a few days. Looking forward to it.
    Thank you for the great information!

  • @Campnkel
    @Campnkel 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Thanks for another amazing video! I leave on another trip next week! Been taking the Coast Starlight from the Bay Area to Oxnard, wondering what you think of biding to upgrade a roomette to bedroom? I’ve done it a few times and it’s worked out pretty well! You’re one of the reasons I got so in to Amtrak travel! Going to Seattle next month too!

  • @clairejeannette8454
    @clairejeannette8454 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks! I think I’ll give it a try!

  • @fr.michaelknipe4839
    @fr.michaelknipe4839 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Very well done and informative 👍🏼

  • @sgt.grinch3299
    @sgt.grinch3299 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Thank you.

  • @jaybilzarian1351
    @jaybilzarian1351 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I’ve rode the NER multiple times from Wilmington to Providence. It actually takes about the same time as it does to drive and you don’t have to deal with NY and CT traffic plus the snack car, Also few wifi interruptions. For me I’ve only had to wait at most 15 minutes. Never tried Acela, just couldn’t justify the extra cost for a one hour travel time difference. I’ll be taking my first long distance trip later this year from Wilmington to Orlando, Can’t wait. Thanks for the tips.

  • @jamesthompson3099
    @jamesthompson3099 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +29

    I've been traveling annually on Amtrak long distance since 2007. One of the trips I make every year is Chicago to Albuquerque, NM. That train has NEVER been on time in either direction. When I am talking to my family and discussing the planned arrival time there is a moment of silence and then we all burst out laughing. To be fair to Amtrak, the problem is freight trains. They are supposed to, by law, prioritize Amtrak service and they just ignore the rule. No one enforces it so you are either stuck on sidings or creeping along behind a slow freight. when I ride the Coast Starlight from LA to Seattle, by exception, it is usually very good at staying on schedule because there isn't that much north/south freight. If you are traveling out of Chicago to anywhere west, though, expect delays, sometimes huge ones.
    All that said, once you have built that into your plans, there is no more fun and fascinating way to travel then on Amtrak. I love them. I'll be back on the train this summer.

    • @michaelbujaki2462
      @michaelbujaki2462 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I was on a train that was in no less than two accidents back in the 90s. Being suddenly thrown out of or seat or into a door was a common occurrence as the trains collided with someone parked on the tracks.

    • @prjndigo
      @prjndigo 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Only amtrak I rode that was on-time was the commuter run from DC to NYC on sunday afternoon - how we made DC on overnight from the Tampa Turn "on time" to meet the DC shot I do not know but that thing made NYC stop precisely on the ticket minute. There were several times on that run where we obviously weren't touching rails.

    • @JackVermicelli
      @JackVermicelli 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Isn't it the other way around? Amtrak runs on lines owned and operated by commercial lines, and thus defers to their freight traffic.

    • @jamesthompson3099
      @jamesthompson3099 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@JackVermicelli No, the Feds mandated that freight defer to Amtrak. They mostly don't. Part of that is that freight trains today are often longer than the sidings and can't pull off. I think mostly that as long as they can get away with it they will in order to meet their freight deliveries.

    • @TSmith-ns45
      @TSmith-ns45 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Passenger trains used to have priority, but no longer. The length of passing sidings is the main issue. Freight trains have doubled in length in recent years; therefore, passenger trains must take sidings and wait for one to two mile long trains to pass. This repeated process can make passenger trains several hours late.

  • @kathleenhudson8429
    @kathleenhudson8429 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Be aware that at some of the larger stations (such as Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York) and are checking baggage, you may need to be there up to an hour early in order to check the bags. You can check with the station ahead of time.

    • @happyface3216
      @happyface3216 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Are checked bags different from carry on? So I wouldn’t have to check a carry on right?

  • @diva70smusic
    @diva70smusic 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great advice as usual. I have only taken Amtrak trains on the east coast. The Crescent Train leaving south out of Washington, DC is always late and crowded, especially on the weekends.

  • @charlesdahl9714
    @charlesdahl9714 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

    A short extension cord with three outlets on the end works well in the roommates

    • @JackVermicelli
      @JackVermicelli 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Please don't put cords into your roommates.

  • @carriemccullough7675
    @carriemccullough7675 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Yessss!!! I am totally here for this video!! ❤🎉❤

  • @barryc2528
    @barryc2528 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks Guys, I am planning my first Amtrak trip for this May (CHI - SLC) and these are definately some good tips.

  • @melissamoeller9608
    @melissamoeller9608 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    🎉❤I’m the first viewer!
    Thank you for this really helpful video. It’s been years since I’ve ridden Amtrak. So it’s good to know how to avoid the potential pitfalls.

  • @Mr.-J-2024
    @Mr.-J-2024 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Excellent! Thanks so much. Love your videos. :- )

  • @kevinkeene1593
    @kevinkeene1593 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

    Great advice, as always. My previous Amtrak trips have just been in my state. But, I'm planning some multi-day and multi-state travels this year. I'll definitely be well prepared now.

    • @paulne1514
      @paulne1514 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Get tickets as soon as possible. The price of roomettes and bedrooms go up in price as the train gets sold out. Try not to get in the car next to the locomotive. Out west, they blow the horn at every driveway.

  • @aleischer
    @aleischer 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Good information!

  • @lornalewis9798
    @lornalewis9798 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Have y’all ever done a vid in tipping? I did tip frequently, but never sure if I was ripping myself off lol.

  • @pastorjerrykliner3162
    @pastorjerrykliner3162 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    I rode Amtrak...2 different, connecting trains...last fall and was amazed...AMAZED...all four trains were actually on-time. It was the first time I have ever witnessed such a thing on AMTRAK.
    One thing about "checking" your bags... If you're getting on, or getting off, at an unmanned Station Stop, they may not actually be able to check your bags.

  • @vickilindberg6336
    @vickilindberg6336 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Great, as usual. You two are such a joy to watch. So nice & down to earth. Thank you for being so organized.

  • @kellybryson7754
    @kellybryson7754 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the hints. I'm looking at taking Amyrak from Los Angeles to Seattle and back. I am going to look at some of your older vids

  • @tamaracheeseman183
    @tamaracheeseman183 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I've been watching you for a couple of years. On our 2nd journey on the EB Empire Builder, we met a few people who booked back to back train journeys. My husband and I thought those people were asking for trouble. We arrived at every stop early, even though they can't leave early. We even arrived at our terminus, Chicago 30 minutes early!

  • @racheldixon8742
    @racheldixon8742 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great tips! We're frequent Northeast Regional riders but would love to try the auto train one day so your videos are helpful. Ahhh the late trains. I find that Amtrak is either right on time or extremely late. There seems to be no in between most times. And yes, to using the hotspot! I learned how to use my hotspot on my phone on an Amtrak train during the pandemic. I took a trip with my daughter, and she needed to login to school (when all the schools were doing virtual). I could not for the life of me figure out the Amtrak wi-fi and that's when I finally "discovered" my phone's hotspot and learned how to use it - on that trip!

  • @miel001
    @miel001 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    OMG! On our first Coast Starlight cruise we thought we were saving money by reserving a Roomette. It was WONDERFUL. We're again taking the CSC but this time, because we can afford it, we reserved a Bedroom. But then you reminded me of the joy of the Roomette and my husband doesn't get it. I'm hoping he'll see the light on the way up and then agree to Roomettes on the way back. Fingers crossed.

    • @MichaelG485
      @MichaelG485 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I'm really curious about something.... Why did you choose to take the train rather than fly? From what I can tell, a roomette on a train costs the same if not more than plane tickets, and take significantly longer to get to your destination.
      It just doesn't make sense to me, but maybe I'm something...

    • @653j521
      @653j521 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@MichaelG485 If you want to get there fast, then take a plane. If you want to savor the journey, take the train.

  • @loririvera5747
    @loririvera5747 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you!!

  • @raymondhummel3808
    @raymondhummel3808 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Haven’t taken Amtrak much but went coach Chicago to St. Louis two weeks ago. I did not care for the upper level. I felt it was too overcrowded so I changed to downstairs. That was the Texas Eagle Superliner equipment. Returning to Chicago, we were booked business class on the Lincoln Service. That was a relaxing and pleasant run. A nice touch was the cafe attendant greeting us and welcoming us to the cafe before it was open to the rest of the train. Also before approaching Union Station, the attendant closed the cafe then invited us to a last call before she had to complete her paperwork.

  • @SMElder-iy6fl
    @SMElder-iy6fl 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Are you showing my beautiful New Mexico?😊

  • @truthsayers8725
    @truthsayers8725 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +14

    coming 'home' from San Antonio to Chicago (the Texas Eagle or part of it anyway) we got there, with just a little bit of time to spare to catch the Blue Water (Chicago-Port Huron Michigan).
    ALSO, if youre going to go up to the Dome Car, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE, do not monopolize the seating. there arent enough seats for the entire train to sit there, so share with your fellow passengers.

  • @lornalewis9798
    @lornalewis9798 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    I need another train trip! Y’all are the best!

  • @TypoKnig
    @TypoKnig 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Great points! I was on the Empire Builder in 2023, and Amtrak had an additional WiFi network on the train that was better than their regular one. Not perfect, and I took it as a chance to disconnect and enjoy the real world. Which was my expectation.

  • @PrimeTimeTravelers
    @PrimeTimeTravelers 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Great tips for everyone! Have an awesome weekend! I am stuck at work all weekend. 19 straight days, no days off.

  • @abelmore7
    @abelmore7 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Going to California from Bloomington Illinois. I leave Wednesday morning I’m looking forward to the trip/vacation! First time riding Amtrak thanks!

  • @MidnightWarrior1976
    @MidnightWarrior1976 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I live on the Northwest coast. My trains are very close to on time most of the time. And I have never checked baggage for this reason (planes too)

  • @inyobill
    @inyobill 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    No baloney, just good advice. Very nice.

  • @jerusalem7576
    @jerusalem7576 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks good pointers

  • @charlotteryner6583
    @charlotteryner6583 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    I'm a single traveller. I've only been on double decker trains and I travel with lots of luggage because I'm visiting relatives and taking presents, etc. I always check my luggage. That way I don't have to haul it out on the platform. At the end I always have someone picking me up so I have help. I love Amtrak and will always go with them if possible. Also, the only time I experienced more than a few minutes delay was a westbound Zephyr in Omaha. It was several hours late due to massive fires east of Omaha. Inconvenient but we arrived at our final destination on time. 😊😊

    • @emjayay
      @emjayay 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      On the Superliners the luggage rack is downstairs. Someone getting off along the way could steal your stuff. I don't know how often that happens. If you don't check your luggage you will be stuck with it if you are using connecting trains. In Emeryville I had hours to wait and the woman wanted $10 to hold my one bag and going to Los Angeles from there they didn't have checked luggage anyway.

  • @ck4426
    @ck4426 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Thank you for your honesty and insight about what Amtrak is really like. I rode it at least twice a month from 2005-2020 and when it is good, it’s great, but 99%of the time one of the problems you mention or many others happen. So thanks for being transparent and honest. Another thing that should be mentioned is that trains could and WILL be cancelled at a moment’s notice with no alternative transportation. I rode Amtrak because I had no other alternative at the time-I’m glad I have an alternative.

  • @gtownmonarch
    @gtownmonarch 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I looked at all of the Amtrak departure times from Sac to SF and each departure time that worked for me only had a 2 minute layover in Emeryville. I hope I make my connecting bus to SF

    • @ControllerHero3
      @ControllerHero3 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      Don't worry about the connecting bus to San Francisco, those are a guaranteed connection. Those buses are tied to the arrival of your train, so no matter how late your train might be they will be waiting for you when you get to Emeryville.

  • @RVail623
    @RVail623 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Starlink would be a good option, if Amtrak decided to make WiFi service working where cell service is unavailable. There are mini-sized immersible water heaters that can plug in to 120 volt outlets, for making coffee, tea, ramen noodles, etc. There's probably a limit on amps for those wall outlets, so best not to trip the circuit breaker & annoy the attendant. A hot plate or toaster would probably draw too many amps. The wall outlets in coach may have different amp ratings compared with couchette wall outlets.

    • @emjayay
      @emjayay 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Those are 300 watts. Probably OK.

  • @gloriah2715
    @gloriah2715 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Can you recommend the charger that you use?

    • @lornalewis9798
      @lornalewis9798 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      I’d like to know too!

  • @douglastoney2843
    @douglastoney2843 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great information

  • @Fliegermann777
    @Fliegermann777 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Took Texas Eagle in 2017 from Ft. Worth-Chicago. Had lower level Family Bedroom. Thought would be great, but as soon as we started rolling I realized a wheel right below me had a flat spot (we were at the end of the car directly above the truck/wheel assembly). Not a good start. At track speed the whump whump whump sound became an intolerable vibration. I was even concerned about possible derailment. Sleeper attendant said it had been that way for months. Also, my car was 2nd on the train, right behind the engine. All night long the train horn never stopped. I guess they have to honk even at the farm road crossings. Between the two issues I got 0 sleep. Cancelled the return train trip and flew back on Southwest for practically nothing. 1/10th what I paid for the sleeper accommodation.
    Was hoping to enjoy the journey and embrace Amtrak/long-distance rail travel.
    Haven't tried it since. Just fly everywhere...

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Amtrak sells ear plugs at their cafe, and Walmart sells them for much less everywhere. It is a federal law that trains toot their horns at every grade crossing, including ranches in the middle of nowhere... Never-the-less there are far too many accidents with vehicles at railroad grade crossings despite the very loud horns. Now you know why many Americans refuse to live near the railroad tracks, even in the middle of nowhere... I grew up living with a railroad tracks several feet from our backyard back fence. Our aunts, uncles, and cousins that visited us and slept in our guest bedroom and living room hide a bed couch found it difficult to sleep due to the train horns every hour as it was a major railroad's mainline. Me, I got used to it and slept through it...

    • @653j521
      @653j521 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@ronclark9724 A lot of people also dislike having stones thrown at them by the trains. It reminds me of living next to a golf course. :)

  • @mikea77
    @mikea77 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Great presentation, as usual.
    I keep meaning to ask you about baggage check not being available on the Lakeshore Limited, eastbound to Boston. For such a large station, you would think baggage claim/check will be available. I’ve tried to research on line for an explanation, but to no avail. Do you know why it’s not available at Boston South Station? TIA

  • @k.b.tidwell
    @k.b.tidwell 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    My wife and I have dreams of train travel out west from our Alabama home. Your video on possible new Amtrak routes has fired up the wanderlust in me again. I'm thankful for your channel! Subscribed.

  • @andrewthacker114
    @andrewthacker114 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for heads up. I want to go from Dallas to west coast

  • @manhattanrats
    @manhattanrats 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Thanks for showing the path forward. Robert in NYC.

  • @davidjarvis2057
    @davidjarvis2057 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Some of the newer short distance trains like the Cascades have plugs at every seat but I agree with you that the Wifi can be pretty spotty even between Portland and Seattle.

  • @sweetkitty3249
    @sweetkitty3249 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Does the train generally run on time from Milwaukee to Chicago? I know some people take the train from Milwaukee to Chicago for work.

  • @smileyeagle1021
    @smileyeagle1021 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    One piece of advise that I'd add, especially in coach, bring a small power strip with you. You will become the the hero of the row if you have that power strip to make it easier to have power to the aisle seat (plus allowing each person more than just one outlet).

  • @rebeccalyons1327
    @rebeccalyons1327 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I wish I had brought a blanket for my Amtrak trip. The car never really heated up because with each stop the doors open. This was a SC to FL trip in winter. 🥶 Also if on an intermediate stop be prepared for the employees to rush you on. They are stressed because they are behind schedule and they basically yell at you to get on. It’s not the “friendly skies”

    • @grayrabbit2211
      @grayrabbit2211 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      We did FL to NC and back in November and all of the staff we met were fantastic, better service than Delta's First Class.

    • @653j521
      @653j521 หลายเดือนก่อน

      It seems reasonable that they would need for you to move it.

  • @whophd
    @whophd 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I want to add what I got wrong on my first Amtrak ride 24 years ago:
    They had a volunteer guide who was speaking / narrating down one end of the observation carriage, and for whatever reason I was convinced that the volunteer would take turns and move about the carriage to give everybody a chance to hear them. Not only did this not happen, but the scenic section (through the Rockies) was the only time, maybe half a day in a 3-day trip, that any interesting information was given. I still enjoyed the rest of the scenery from coast to coast, but had to learn about it from TV and TH-cam decades later.
    Also, I was cheap and travelling in coach / economy, somehow surviving the nights by sheer force of youth 😂 but I missed out another announcement: Not all the speakers worked equally well in every carriage or every cabin. I recommend to be REALLY sure that the announcement you’re waiting for is going to come up where you’re sitting. So that’s how I missed breakfast one time. Remember - time zones change and there’s no mobile coverage (certainly not then, and still a lot now).
    The other minor tip I’d give is that the outside of the trains may look shiny and silver, but they’re dirty! Don’t touch them if you think that’s fun 😅

  • @craigtimothy1
    @craigtimothy1 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hi Allie and Rob! Thanks for another great video.
    Question: in your roomette, what did you plug into the electrical outlet? The one that has 4-5 USB ports? If you have the manufacturer and model number, that would be great! Thank you!

  • @robinstitzel7590
    @robinstitzel7590 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    While my husband and I love travel, I am reluctant to try an overnight trip. He is 6'9", and I don't think he will be comfortable in a sleeper car. Do you have any insight into whether we could find a sleeper car he would fit in?

  • @davidlawson4281
    @davidlawson4281 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Good advice. I always take a portable charger.

  • @sfperalta
    @sfperalta 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    We traveled on Amtrak years ago from Sacramento to Denver. The outbound trip was great, pretty much on time. The return trip was very, very late (over 6 hours), nixing the connection back to Fresno for my family members, and back to San Jose for myself. In both cases Amtrak provided bus service, but not nearly as nice as the train connection. Beware and be prepared.

  • @SWiseman
    @SWiseman 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Practical and useful tips. Thanks for sharing

  • @craigtimothy1
    @craigtimothy1 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks!

  • @a62dave
    @a62dave 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Lower level is great for Roomette sleepers because there’s not as much movement/swaying. For sightseeing, head to the Observation Lounge.

  • @gamom1
    @gamom1 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    @groundedlifetravel, are there day trips? I want to take my husband on a day trip because he’s never been on a train just to see if he will like it before taking a longer trip

  • @CrispyCircuits
    @CrispyCircuits หลายเดือนก่อน

    If your cell phone gives you service in Mexico, on the LA to TX route, use your roaming to get Mexican data for a hotspot or just the phone. Expect about 5-8 minutes of regular cell service when passing through small towns.

  • @Pantherjonvideos
    @Pantherjonvideos 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great info! Looking at going on Amtrak soon..Luckily it will only be a short trip, but the info is still very valuable!! Thanks!

  • @leighims
    @leighims 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Thank you for the tips !!!!!

  • @jeffreykite2901
    @jeffreykite2901 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Amtrak traveler since 1975. If you check your bags, make sure that they will travel on each train that you are riding to your destination. Not all trains have baggage cars and your checked bag may travel on a later train. Once, my bags arrived a day late and my cruise had left. I was outfitted in clothes from K-Mart. I made the cruise but my suitcase did not. Keep your bags with you sure they will get to your destination when you do. Actually, modeling my K-Mart wardrobe each evening in the formal dining room dining room was kind of fun....

  • @kimberleyannedemong5621
    @kimberleyannedemong5621 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I use to take Amtrak from Syracuse to Albany NY. I have chronic pain & driving a car for over 2 hours was an ugly experience. Amtrak was so much better & the best thing was thanks to the electrical outlets i could use my heating pad an essential in helping control my pain. I did learn quickly which train not to take. It came from Canada to Buffalo to Syr. It was always very late due to getting through customs.

  • @aaronhill443
    @aaronhill443 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    I personally like to check my bags. Coming from Cleveland and with most of my connections being via long layovers in Chicago, I like to walk around Chicago and not have to worry about hauling my luggage around. I am taking the train to New Orleans for my next cruise and have almost 11 hours in Chicago. I have hauled my luggage around and I don't recommend it to anyone especially if you plan to go somewhere to sit down and eat before your train leaves. I have my bookbag or small duffel for my books and headphones that I walk around with, but I don't plan on seeing my luggage again once I check it in until I get to New Orleans.

  • @OcotilloTom
    @OcotilloTom 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Interesting video. My father worked for the railroads in the 1940's, (Missouri Pacific and Illinois Central) but I have never taken a train journey. I prefer to drive and I take two month long cross country trips each year. I'm 78 years old and don't own a cell phone or personal computer so that's no problem for me.
    El Mirage, Arizona

  • @Bridgesontheroadtravel
    @Bridgesontheroadtravel 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi - love these videos. We are travelling Amtrak for the first time on the California Zephyr (got assigned roomette 2 - yay). As long term travellers we each have 18kg roller bags. Would you recommend we check them or not? TIA

  • @diannedandrea8251
    @diannedandrea8251 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Hi. Love your videos. Have you used red cap service? I’m traveling alone. Senior citizen. First long distance train and I know I will overpack. Going from Chicago to Seattle. I’m assuming the attendant will help me to get off the train with the stairs? But does Seattle have red cap service?

    • @lornalewis9798
      @lornalewis9798 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I used Red Cap several times. Totally worth it. Can’t remember if they had it in Seattle, but they do in DC and Chicago, so probably.

    • @chrisdobrowolski2783
      @chrisdobrowolski2783 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Yes the sleeping attendent will put out a ramp if easier and red cap will help you on the train. If coach the conductor will put out the ramp and red camp can help you on if needed.

  • @LEM19284
    @LEM19284 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hoping all is well. 😊

  • @JV-pu8kx
    @JV-pu8kx 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Took a 24-hour trip on the Crescent, and they were never late for any of the once-an-hour-average stops! Return trip, too.