amtrak auto train
Jun 26th, 2010, 10:49 AM
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 123
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
amtrak auto train
We were thinking of trying it in August. First of all, does it pay to spend the extra $ to go first class seating? How much extra is it. Website not friendly. ALso, we are not getting a sleeper. What do you think about sitting in the seats all night. Should we bring a pillow? Is there a discount somehow as very costly? HELP>
Thanks so much. clove
Thanks so much. clove
Jun 26th, 2010, 04:59 PM
#2
Join Date: Jun 2010
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I am a retired Amtrak AutoTrain engineer. The seating in the coach cars is all the same, no First Class/Coach as on the airlines. First Class Amtrak seating is in the sleeper cars with bedrooms. Coach seating is similar to comfy airline business class/first class seats. The seats are reasonably spacious and do recline comfortably. There is a leg rest that has several positions. And lots of legroom, no sitting with your knees up to your chin. Also an airline tray-style seat back table. Do bring your favorite pillow and a lightweight blanket as the A/C is sometimes rather cool. Also bring a good book AND your necessary meds as vehicle access is impossible after departure. The pricing is seasonably based but should not be at maximum fare in August. Prices go up for Southbound travelers in the Fall and northbound travelers in the Spring. But the sooner you purchase transportation the better. Don't wait to the last few days. $$$$ Meals are provided in the diner and there is a lounge car available to all.
Hope this is of some assistance to you.
Traindriver Billy
Hope this is of some assistance to you.
Traindriver Billy
Jun 27th, 2010, 09:14 AM
#3
Join Date: Jun 2010
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Word to the wise.. As you will read on several websites and blogs, regarding whatever you decide to leave in your vehicle... "Hide your valuables."
Also, upon arrival at destination, should you determine that something is missing.. report it immediately and follow up with a claim to Amtrak's Claim Dept in Washing DC. Contrary to what you may be told.. Amtrak IS liable because they invite you (in writing) to leave your luggage, etc. in your vehicle.
Also, upon arrival at destination, should you determine that something is missing.. report it immediately and follow up with a claim to Amtrak's Claim Dept in Washing DC. Contrary to what you may be told.. Amtrak IS liable because they invite you (in writing) to leave your luggage, etc. in your vehicle.
Jun 27th, 2010, 09:24 AM
#4
Join Date: Jun 2010
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Also, the origin loading personnel will inspect the exterior of your vehicle, prior to loading. It is extremely important that you, and one witness if possible, pre-inspect your vehicle prior to Amtrak’s origin inspection. At destination.. INSPECT YOUR VEHICLE.. before leaving Amtrak property. Amtrak is liable for any damage caused during loading, unloading, etc.
Jun 27th, 2010, 04:25 PM
#5
Join Date: Oct 2003
Posts: 57,890
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
You might want to consider photos of the outside of your car just before it is loaded on the train - so if there is any damage you can document it.
(If I ever rent a car that is already damaged I take a photo of it and have it noted on the contract - so upon return they don;t claim that I didi it.)
(If I ever rent a car that is already damaged I take a photo of it and have it noted on the contract - so upon return they don;t claim that I didi it.)
