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The Best Ways To Book Cheap Amtrak Train Tickets [Advance Bookings, Rail Passes, and Promo Codes]

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Book Cheap Amtrak Tickets in Advance

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Train travel can be an enjoyable experience, kicking back and watching the scenery whiz past as you relax with a good book. Avoiding airport security queues and road congestion are just a couple more bonuses, but you still want to make sure you bag yourself a deal when riding the rail.

Getting your hands on cheap Amtrak tickets is not tricky — it just requires a bit of planning to know when and where to book. As well as booking direct, Amtrak tickets are only available on a select number of partner websites, but all have price parity. Sometimes, these websites provide handy calendar views to check when the cheapest time to travel is; others have filters to narrow your search criteria.

With Amtrak, the further in advance you can buy your ticket, the better . Fares are released 11 months before the departure date and work on 5 fare levels, with prices rising with demand. Amtrak has different thresholds for booked capacity that, once reached, will bump fare prices up to the next level.

Unfortunately, Amtrak doesn’t display how many tickets are left at a specific price , so the only way to ensure the cheapest rate is to book as early as possible.

Saver fares are available on some routes when booking coach at least 14 days before  your departure. These fares are non-refundable but can be canceled up to 24 hours before departure to receive travel credit. When searching for a train from New York to Boston, a Saver ticket was $39 compared to a Value ticket at $69. That’s quite a savings if you’re confident your journey will go as scheduled.

Joining Amtrak Guest Rewards won’t give you instant savings, but if you travel regularly, it’s worth signing up for long-term gains. Membership is free, and every time you travel, you’ll earn 2 points per dollar spent to redeem against free tickets for regular services, Auto Train, Acela, and sleeper services.

Frequent travelers can work their way up the membership tier statuses to receive further benefits, such as bonus point earnings, complimentary class upgrades, and companion coupons . Members can earn tier-qualifying points in a calendar year through Amtrak travel or using the Amtrak Guest Rewards ® Preferred Mastercard ® .

Amtrak Guest Rewards bonus points are also earned through business class and first class bookings on regular and Acela services.

Don’t wait until you get to the station to book your ticket, as Amtrak says the best rates can be found online. It’s also a good idea to avoid purchasing a ticket on board , as only the more expensive flexible fares are available. The best available rates can be booked at Amtrak.com or via the app , and you also can make changes to your reservation online, view your e-tickets, and avoid long queues at the station.

Register for promotional emails from Amtrak to hear about flash sales and exclusive Amtrak Guest Rewards offers. Amtrak will also occasionally send targeted emails to Guest Rewards members. For instance, the rail company recently sent an email to register for the Amtrak Select Tier Challenge , which will give those targeted Select status through February 2025 after completing qualifying trips.

You can also check the Deals tab on the Amtrak website for regular offers .

Amtrak’s new Night Owl program will reward travelers traveling at off-peak times with extraordinarily cheap tickets. 

Tickets can be as low as $5 each way , depending on your route. It’s only available for the  Northeast Corridor between New York’s Penn Station and Washington D.C.’s Union Station and for departures between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Get an Amtrak Rail Pass

Passengers looking to embark on an Amtrak adventure through the U.S. can purchase a rail pass that includes a set number of segments that must be completed during a set number of days. You still need to book your seats along the way, and the duration starts from the departure date of your first segment.

Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass is for 10 segments over 30 days. The pass is valid for 120 days after purchase (30 days after the first segment is traveled) and for coach travel only.

To see how much you could save with a rail pass, we priced an 8-segment journey with the California Zephyr from Chicago to the San Francisco Bay area and returning via the Southwest Chief from Los Angeles to Chicago.

With this particular route, a rail pass saved over $100 compared to purchasing separate Saver fares for each segment. If you were booking within 14 days of the departure, Saver fares wouldn’t be available, and the lowest ticket would be a Value fare with savings of over $240 .

We searched for travel dates 3 months in advance, so bear in mind that the closer to the departure date, the greater your savings would be using a rail pass , as ticket prices increase for individually purchased fares.

If you’re only looking to explore California, there’s a dedicated rail pass that is valid on Capitol Corridor , San Joaquins , Pacific Surfliner corridor trains, and Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Dunsmuir. The pass is also valid on most connecting Thruway bus services that operate along these routes.

The pass costs $159 for adults and $79.50 for children. It allows travel on any 7 days during a consecutive 21-day period.

Not sure where Amtrak can take you? Check out our detailed guide to all Amtrak routes , including regional and long-distance options.

Booking a multi-ride ticket can save you money if you know you’ll need to travel the same route over a specific duration. Students may book a 6-ride pass valid within 365 days , and all passengers may book a 10-ride pass valid for 45 or 90 days, depending on the route.

We checked out the price of a 10-ride ticket between Los Angeles and San Francisco and compared the cost of purchasing 10 separate tickets.

Purchasing a 10-ride ticket would save $58 (almost the price of 1 ticket) compared to buying these tickets separately, so a multi-pass would save you money if you are confident you’ll make the journey enough times within the required duration.

There are restricted trains that multi-ride tickets can’t be used on, so check out this list to confirm before you purchase your pass.

Consider whether you’re eligible for any of Amtrak’s everyday discounts:

• Children : Infants under 2 ride free, and children 2 to 12 years old receive 50% off
• Seniors : Passengers 65 and over receive 10% off most rail fares
• Military Personnel : Active-duty service members and their dependents save 10% on most rail fares
• Military Veterans : U.S. veterans save 10% on the lowest available fares
• Passengers With Disabilities : Disability savings are 10% to 50% depending on the route
• Rail Passengers Association : Members are eligible to receive 10% off the lowest available fares

Amtrak releases monthly promo and coupon codes to third-party websites that you will rarely find on the Amtrak website. Promo codes consist of 4 digits that typically offer 10% to 50% savings . Railserve.com updates its page monthly to reflect new and ongoing promo codes valid for different regions within Amtrak’s route network.

If traveling long distances or overnight, you might want to upgrade to a bed to get some shut-eye along the way. If you’re traveling with another person, booking a sleeper car would be much more cost-effective than traveling alone. Meals are also included when booking a sleeper car.

If you book a Roomette, passengers can enjoy the views from the 2 sweeping picture windows next to both beds.

Omio is an official partner of Amtrak that sells tickets without the need to go directly to the Amtrak website. Omio displays the same rates you would find on Amtrak.com , but Omio doesn’t permit passengers to purchase sleeper cabins.

When searching, you can filter whether you want only to see direct services or with a maximum number of stops. You can also filter by price or journey time.

Wanderu is another partner of Amtrak and provides a valuable platform for passengers to search for cheap travel, including Amtrak tickets and other train and bus providers.

Although the pricing will be the same as booking directly with Amtrak, Wanderu allows visitors to filter by particular train providers and then by price to view the cheapest rates. For some popular routes, the calendar will display the cheapest ticket for each date of the month , so if you’re flexible, you can choose to travel at the most affordable time.

There’s also the option to switch on Include nearby locations , where cheaper rates might be available to stations not too far from your original choice.

With over 500 stations on the continental U.S., Amtrak is an excellent option for getting from A to B for business or pleasure or for embarking on a train adventure across the country. Although traveling by Amtrak is often cheaper than flying, it can take considerably longer, so get the best deal to justify this additional time.

The key to booking cheap Amtrak tickets is planning ahead, as the best fares are released 11 months before departure . Check Amtrak’s Deals page to see if any offers apply to your route, or check out current promo codes found on external sites.

The information regarding the Amtrak Guest Rewards ®  Preferred Mastercard ®  was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i get cheap amtrak tickets.

Getting your hands on cheap Amtrak tickets is not difficult — it just requires a bit of planning to know when and where to book. Book online in advance, use a promo code, or sign up for email offers to find the cheapest deals.

How much does it cost for an Amtrak ticket?

Amtrak tickets vary in price depending on the route, how far in advance the ticket is booked, and whether you book a standard seat or sleeper cabin. Search on the Amtrak website for fare quotes without any commitment to book.

Is it cheaper to buy Amtrak tickets online or at the station?

Amtrak says its cheapest rates can be found by booking directly on the Amtrak website. You’ll also get to avoid long queues at the ticket counters.

Is it cheaper to buy roundtrip or one way on Amtrak?

Round-trip Amtrak tickets don’t offer a discount. You’ll pay the same amount whether you book 2 one-way tickets or a round-trip ticket.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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How to Get Cheap Amtrak Tickets

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If you're thinking of an alternative to flying to your summer vacation spot, consider Amtrak. The railroad passenger company operates more than 300 trains daily to hundreds of destinations in the U.S. and Canada. There's a good chance an Amtrak station is located where you're headed.

If you're ready to climb aboard, here's what you need to know to get Amtrak tickets at a discount.

» Learn more: Review of the Amtrak Guest Rewards World Mastercard

Tips to get cheap Amtrak tickets

Some tried and true budget travel strategies — such as booking tickets on during lower travel periods — can help you snag cheap Amtrak tickets.

1. Earn travel rewards and get rewarded

Before you ride, join Amtrak Guest Rewards . Joining is free, and you'll get 500 bonus points when you take a trip within the first 90 days your account is open. You'll also earn 2 points for every dollar spent on Amtrak travel. If you prefer to travel business or first class on high-speed Acela trains, which operate in the Northeast, you'll get a 25% point bonus on the former and a 50% bonus on the latter.

» Learn more: Baffled by points and miles? Let the 80/20 rule guide you

2. Snag bonus points through partners

You can also rack up Amtrak Guest Reward when you spend money at hotels, car rental companies and other retailers Amtrak has partnered with. A few examples:

Book a stay at one of Choice Hotel's more than 6,800 locations and you'll earn 250 Amtrak points.

Rent a car through Budget and you'll earn 50 Amtrak Guest Rewards points for every qualifying rental day.

Send your loved one some flowers using Teleflora and you'll add 750 Amtrak Guest Rewards points to your account.

3. Redeem points for trips

Once you have plenty of Amtrak Guest Rewards points stockpiled, get the most out of them by redeeming for Amtrak trips. Redemption rates vary by route, date and time, but you can save a ton if you combine your points with special promotions.

Parents, take note of Amtrak’s child discount , which allows infants under 2 to travel for free and additional children under 12 to travel for a 50% discount.

4. Travel when it's not as busy

You can often score a discount by planning your trips on less busy days. For example, Amtrak recently held a sale in which — as long as you traveled on Saturday — you could buy one ticket and get the next one free. A two-passenger Saturday ticket from New York to Boston was a mere $83.

5. Bring a friend — or three

Amtrak wants you to bring some friends along for your summer vacation. Its Share Fare deal gets you a discount for every plus-one. Here's the breakdown:

Passenger 1: Full price.

Passenger 2: 15% off full price.

Passenger 3: 60% off full price.

Passenger 4: 70% off full price.

That's a lot of potential savings. Pick up the phone and call some people who not only appreciate the scenic appeal of Amtrak, but also love a good deal.

6. If you're taking Acela, book early

Acela trains, which operate between Washington, D.C., and Boston, offer large leather seats, fast Wi-Fi and luggage storage for up to four bags. While Acela travel typically costs more than other trains, you can score a discount if you simply plan your trip in advance. Book a ticket on the Acela a minimum of 7 to 21 days prior to your trip, and you'll get a 25% discount.

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7 Secret Amtrak Tips That Could Save You Money

A nationally recognized reporter, writer, and consumer advocate, Ed Perkins focuses on how travelers can find the best deals and avoid scams.

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If you’re considering a trip on Amtrak, you could be eligible for a discount you don’t know about. Amtrak routinely gives up to 30 percent off bookings for an array of reasons, some based on status, some on when you buy, and some on short-term promotions. Here are the Amtrak tips you need to know to save money on a rail journey.

Amtrak Tips You Need to Know

First, it’s important to know what services Amtrak discounts typically apply to, and their terms:

• Discounts are almost always confined to coach class and ordinary (not high-speed) trains, though there are occasional business-class discounts on Acela. Amtrak only rarely discounts its sleeper class or Acela first class seats, and typically highly publicizes those.
• Discounts usually apply to all or almost all long-haul and regional routes , although seats are subject to availability and holidays/blackout dates.
• Discounts often exclude routes where Amtrak does not use seat reservations: typically Keystone and Pennsylvanian trains between Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Pacific Surfliner trains, Auto Trains , and some Thruway Bus .
• Most discounts do not apply to the Canadian portion of cross-border trains operated by Amtrak and Canada’s VIA Rail.
• Some discounts are combinable; others are not. Some discounted fares allow upgrading with payment of fee; others do not. Check individual programs for details.

Most discounted fares are nonrefundable, but are exchangeable with a 25 percent fee. In addition to discounts on regular tickets, Amtrak tips listed here include its version of a rail pass as well as rail-hotel package details, which can be useful for some travelers.

Status Discounts

Several ongoing Amtrak discounts depend on who you are; appropriate ID may be required when you travel. Status discounts are combinable with some other discounts but not all.

Seniors age 65 and over receive 10 percent discounts on most coach fares. The senior discount is 50 percent on Downeaster trains between Boston and Maine. Kids age two through 12 receive 50 percent discount when traveling with a fare-paying adult. Military on active duty and veterans  receive 10 percent discounts on most coach fares.

Travelers with disabilities and companions  receive 10 percent discounts on most coach tickets. All Rail Passengers Association members receive 10 percent discounts on most coach fares; three-day advance purchase is required.

Purchase-Based Discounts

Advance Purchase: Amtrak offers a variety of advance-purchase discounts of 20 to 25 percent. The most general is a 20 percent “Saver Fare” discount, nationwide, on its most popular long-distance trains. Purchase tickets seven to 14 days in advance, depending on route.

Smart Fares: Each week, Amtrak posts specific routes with 30 percent coach discounts. Fares post on Tuesdays for purchase during the next four days and for weekday travel starting the following week, ending after three weeks.

Short-Term Promotions

Amtrak frequently posts short-term promotions, with a specified cutoff date, on its deals page . They take several forms:

Conventional coach percentage discounts in limited regions, on specific trains, or to specific traveler groups such as seniors and students. Discounts are typically 15 to 25 percent—no better than “Saver Fares,’ but with either no advance purchase requirement or a shorter period.

Buy-one-get-one or companion offers; sometimes the second ticket free, sometimes the second ticket at 50 percent off.

“Share Fares” for a group of up to six traveling together requires the first traveler to pay full fare, the second to pay 15 percent off, and the third through sixth to pay 60 to 70 percent off the adult fare.

One current temporary 15 percent discount applies to seniors age 62 or over on regional trains within California: Capitol Corridor, Pacific Surfliner, and San Joaquins. This promotion expires January 31, 2020. Route-specific sales can come and go.

Multi-Rides and Passes

Amtrak sells monthly and ten-ride tickets for trips between two specified stations, as well as six-ride tickets for students, limited to a few trains.

Amtrak’s rail pass comes in three sizes: eight segments over a 15-day period, $499; 12 segments over 30 days, $689; and 18 segments over 45 days, $899; half fare for children ages 2-12. Travel is valid on most trains.

There’s also a California pass, $159 for travel on any seven days out of a 21-day period. Children pay half, for travel on Capitol Corridor ,  San Joaquins  and  Pacific Surfliner , and Coast Starlight  between Los Angeles and Dunsmuir, California.

Flash Sales

Amtrak periodically runs flash sales, usually with a purchase period of only a few days, valid for travel over several months. It just completed its fourth annual “Track Friday” sale offering 35 percent discounts on most trains. Last year flash sales offered 35 to 60 percent off some long-haul trains; one sale even included sleeper class. Flash sales also included some BOGO deals and one $10 fare deal.

Amtrak offers a range of vacation packages , some incorporating both rail travel and hotel accommodations, others concentrating just on destination packages at cities Amtrak serves. As is the case with air/hotel, packages, rail/hotel packages can often cost less than buying rail tickets and hotel accommodations separately. You have to check each specific trip to determine whether packages are good deals.

Making Sure You Get Your Deal

The regular Amtrak website is very good about offering discounts automatically. The booking page accepts inputs about your status and the search system automatically displays discounted fares. Very occasionally, you may need to enter a promotional code. You can arrange discounted Amtrak tickets in person, online, and through Amtrak’s free iPhone or Android app .

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How to save money when booking Amtrak tickets, according to a travel expert

• Booking Amtrak tickets can get expensive, but there are some tricks to saving money when booking.
• Martin Soto, a travel blogger and frequent Amtrak user, said you should always buy tickets online.
• You should also check Amtrak's deals page and consider signing up for its Guest Rewards program. 

Traveling can get expensive fast, and often, transportation is one of the most costly expenses. 

When it comes to Amtrak, ticket prices can cost anywhere from around $20 to $1,000, depending on the train line, the distance, and the class you choose. Insider spoke with Martin Soto, a blogger who runs Travel Explorator and frequently takes Amtrak trains, to find out how passengers can save money when booking their next journey.

Here are five easy ways to get the best deals with Amtrak.

Buy your tickets on Amtrak's website

There are several ways to purchase an Amtrak ticket: You can do it online or via Amtrak's app, you can buy tickets at the station, or you can order them over the phone. But Soto says there's only one way to go.

"You will find better deals if you buy your ticket online instead of at the train station," Soto said.

Try to buy your tickets as early as possible

Amtrak releases its train schedules 11 months in advance, giving you ample time to plan a trip. Soto said to get the best deals, you should avoid purchasing last-minute. 

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"You'll tend to find the cheapest fares if you book ahead of time rather than waiting for a deal to pop up," Soto said. "Amtrak increases ticket prices as the demand rises, so if you can buy before others start to buy up the tickets, you'll find a better deal. "

You should check out Amtrak's designated deals page

Amtrak's deals page is the go-to place to save money on tickets. The company updates the page regularly with limited-time offers.

"While you might have trouble finding a deal if you plan on taking a train to a small city close to you, you might find a really good deal on well-known trains like the Pacific Surfliner," Soto said.

For example, you can save 50% on a midweek trip on the Pacific Surfliner right now until March 2022.

Don't forget to check to see if you qualify for extra discounts 

Amtrak has deals for certain passengers, like students, veterans, military families, and even children. In fact, you can save up to 50% on children's Amtrak tickets. 

Plus, people who work for the government or are part of the Rail Passengers Association also qualify for extra discounts. 

"Even if you don't think you meet the criteria based on your background or job, it's worth checking," Soto said.

The discounts are listed on Amtrak's "everyday deals" page .

Consider signing up for Amtrak's Guest Rewards

Amtrak's Guest Rewards works like a credit card in that every time you buy an Amtrak ticket, you earn points, which can then be redeemed for future Amtrak purchases, hotel bookings, and car rentals. 

"Even for those who don't use Amtrak a lot, by simply booking hotels through their portal or signing up for a car rental, you earn free points," Soto said. "You don't need to be an Amtrak enthusiast to benefit from them."

Watch: Amtrak has lost money every year since 1971 — here's why train tickets are so expensive

• Main content

3 easy way to save money on Amtrak tickets

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Love it or hate it, Amtrak can offer a convenient alternative to flying, especially if you don't want to take to the skies right now.

Amtrak operates most medium- and long-haul passenger trains in the United States, which means it can generally charge what it wants for fares. And if you've ever taken the train, you know some tickets can be as expensive as a commercial flight.

But if you're a savvy train traveler, there are ways to save a significant amount of money on your ticket. Here are three easy ways to save money on your next Amtrak ride.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Become a member of the Rail Passengers Association

(Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy)

For just $6 a month, I have access to discounted Amtrak tickets as a member of the Rail Passengers Association . It's a program I hadn't heard of until 2019 when I remarked to a colleague how often I rode Amtrak. I quickly discovered how beneficial the program was when I signed up and started to save money on sometimes expensive Amtrak tickets between New York City and Washington, D.C.

Members save 10% on Amtrak tickets and up to 20% off select regional railways, which doesn't seem like a lot of money, but the savings can add up.

If you're interested in joining the Rail Passengers Association, membership starts at just $5 monthly (or $50 annually) for a student or senior membership or $6 ($60 annually) for an individual membership. Once you're a member, you have to add your membership number to your Amtrak account to start receiving the savings.

Book your trip weeks in advance

(Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Amtrak isn't a company where you can typically find last-minute savings. In fact, during a recent Thanksgiving trip between my home in New York and Washington, I briefly considered extending my stay an extra day before checking Amtrak and discovering the cheapest ticket was over $200.

The company's website even encourages travelers to book their tickets in advance and offers an incentive to do so. Travelers who book Saver fares in advance can save up to 20% versus the standard coach fare when booked at least seven days before your trip.

Some examples of this deal include one-way tickets from Atlanta to New Orleans for just $39 and New York to Chicago for $90.

This ongoing deal is available on several routes, including the California Zephyr, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Coast Starlight, Crescent, Empire Builder, Lake Shore Limited, Silver Meteor, Silver Star, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, Texas Eagle, Auto Train, Blue Water, Pere Marquette, Wolverine, Lincoln Service, Saluki, Illini, Carl Sandburg and Illinois Zephyr.

Have an Amtrak credit card

While holding an Amtrak credit card doesn't get you discounted tickets, it does come with some perks that can potentially offset a pricey train fare if you're a frequent rider .

Amtrak offers two cobranded credit cards: the Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard® and the Amtrak Guest Rewards® Mastercard®. Both cards offer decent welcome bonuses, but I want to focus on some of the benefits of the Preferred card.

The information for the Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred card and Amtrak Guest Rewards card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

The Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred card earns 3 points per $1 spent on Amtrak travel (including onboard purchases), 2 points on all travel, dining, transit and rideshare purchases and 1 point everywhere else. Cardholders also receive a 20% rebate on onboard purchases, a complimentary companion coupon at account opening and each year you renew your card, a lounge pass on account opening and at each account anniversary and a one-class upgrade on account opening and each account anniversary. Cardholders also can earn 1,000 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) for every $5,000 spent per calendar year (up to four times).

Possibly the most valuable perk, however, is the one-class upgrade, which can be used to upgrade a coach seat to a business-class seat. Perhaps the best way to use it is to upgrade from Acela business class seat to Acela first class .

Amtrak frequently offers promotions on Acela, where you can get tickets on specific routes for as low as $39 one-way in business class . However, Acela first class is notoriously pricey and can cost as much as $500, depending on your route and travel date. But you can really maximize your business-class purchase by applying a one-class upgrade, which gets you lounge access , a hot meal, a car attendant and seating in a 1-2 configuration.

Train travel in the U.S. pales compared to Europe and Asia, but Acela first class can be a delightful journey if you can use the upgrade.

When Are Amtrak Tickets Cheapest? How To Save Money

By: Conductor Rob

So, when are Amtrak tickets cheapest? Amtrak tickets are cheapest when you book them ahead of time. You can also save more by using Amtrak points and booking with their promotional discounts.

Let’s explain.

Oh, the wonders of traveling by train. Imagine lounging about with a book as you sit and take in the beautiful landscapes.

And, perhaps, there’s no better train to book your travels, than with Amtrak!

Plus, it’s often cheaper than flying by air, well mostly.

Not to mention, there’s less fuss, going through multiple airport security checks etc etc. But of course, you still want to shop for the best prices out there!

Who wouldn’t want lower prices, discounts, and deals? So, with that said, when are Amtrak tickets cheapest?

Much like plane tickets, Amtrak ticket prices vary mainly on the destination.

Ultimately, tickets are cheapest when you book ahead of time. There are also other contributing factors and so many things you can do to score low and bang-for-buck prices.

Overall, it isn’t difficult to find the cheapest Amtrak tickets to your desired destination. But, it does need some forethought and preparation.

It’s all about scoring them at the right time. 

Only a few partner websites sell tickets in addition to the official Amtrak website. For the most part, all prices are the same. 

Today, we present you with the ultimate guide to scoring the best deals on your Amtrak tickets. We go through a wide spectrum of discounts and different passes.

That’s not all! We also reveal some great booking tips and tricks too.

How Much Does An Average Amtrak Ticket Cost? 

It’s best to know the standard and typical Amtrak ticket costs first. This way, you get to compare their overall value. 

As previously stated, the price of an Amtrak ticket is comparable to that of an airline ticket.  It all depends on your seat choice and the kind of train. It also varies depending on the season, time, destination, and class. 

A one-way Amtrak ticket on a short route may cost anywhere from $6 to $30, depending on the route.  Longer journeys and luxury seats, on the other hand, may cost well over a grand. 

If you’re traveling less than 500 miles, expect to pay between $40 and $300 per economy class seat.

However, there are certain places that Amtrak does not service. In this case, the cost of a bus or a cab might add to the total of your bill.

Many times, while purchasing a ticket, you’ll see this as an option.

Upgrades from economy to deluxe seats or a bedroom may add $200 to $600 to the cost of each ticket. It’s important to note that the previous criteria influence this cost.

A 10% cancellation fee is also applied after the 24-hour refund window has ended if the ticket has not been canceled before departure.

You also have to factor in the baggage. The company offers a maximum weight limit of 50 pounds for each bag . Additionally, every bag should be no larger than the 28x22x14 mark.

Amtrak issues $20 carry-on charge and other items that exceed the weight and volume restrictions.

Pets are allowed on Amtrak for $25 However, they must be no more than 20 pounds.

Amtrak.com’s price page will help you figure out the actual cost of your train ride.

When Are Amtrak Tickets Cheapest: 5 Ultimate Ways To Score The Cheapest Tickets 

Now you know what a typical ticket costs, when can you score it at its lowest? Fortunately, there’s more than one way to do so.

Don’t worry, we’ll let you in on some of our best-kept tips and tricks. Good deals span from ongoing discounts to special packages to passes.

Let’s dive deeper into each and every one!

1. Book Early

Amtrak releases its fares 11 months before its departure date, so you have plenty of time to book.

The earlier you book, the better. 

This is one of the best tips for scoring cheap Amtrak tickets. 

Dates come in five tiers of fares, and they rise by their demand. Once their system sees a rise in ticket purchases, they’ll instantly up the cost. 

And unfortunately, ticket availabilities for certain price points don’t reflect on the system. So, the only way to get the best deal is to purchase fast and early. 

Certain destinations, however, offer saver rates if booked at least two weeks prior to travel.

But, note that they are non-refundable. You do, however, have the option to cancel it within a day. And once you do, it converts to travel credit. 

For instance, a New York-Boston saver ticket cost $39. You save a staggering $30 from its Value ticket priced at $69. 

2. Use Amtrak Guest Rewards

This is a great, long-term benefit for frequent travelers. Amtrak Guest Rewards will not rapidly save you money.

However, if you travel often, the long-term benefits are worth getting involved in.

Membership is also free! 

With Amtrak Guest Rewards, you earn two points for every dollar you spend, which can be used for your future tickets. 

This program also comes in membership tiers, and as you get promoted, you earn more benefits.

These include more points, seat or class upgrades, and companion discounts. Amtrak Guest Rewards® World Mastercard® holders may also earn tier-qualifying points through their card. 

3. Amtrak Regular and Ongoing Discounts

Did you know that you can score deals all year round?

Amtrak offers continuous savings to passengers who meet specific criteria.

This includes demographics or involvement in certain organizations. The following include:

Half-priced tickets are available for children under the ages of 2-12. This discount is applicable to every paying adult. 

On the other hand, Amtrak offers free rides for toddlers and infants under 2 years old for every ticket-purchasing adult. Note, that this applies if they do not occupy a seat.

Depending on the availability, additionally, infants may be ticketed as “adults” for 50%.

Also, please note that infants or children under 12 years old cannot travel alone. A paying adult passenger must accompany them.

These discounts are also not available on the following trains and seats: 

• Weekday Acela Express trains
• Business Class seats
• First Class seats
• Sleeper accommodation fares
• Particular Amtrak Thruway linking trips (check website for specific areas)

Senior Citizens

Amtrak offers a 10% discount to elders 65 and older for the cheapest possible rail price.

However, these discounts are also not available on the following trains and seats: 

• Premium class seats
• Acela Express
• VIA Rail Canada and Amtrak cross-border services

Make sure to provide identification that verifies your age.

National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP) Members

If you are a National Association of Railroad Passengers (NARP) member, you can get up to a 10% discount on the cheapest possible price on most Amtrak trains.

Please note that the NARP discount cannot be used if you don’t purchase your tickets three days ahead of the trip.

NARP discounts are also not available on the following trains and seats: 

• On top of Saver fares
• Particular VIA Rail Canada and Amtrak cross-border services

Make sure you bring your membership card at all times.

Certain Veterans such as those with:

• Active and valid United States Armed Forces IDs
• Active US military personnel 

Can avail discounts for their spouses and dependents. They may receive up to a 10% discount on the lowest possible fares. This discount also includes the Auto Train.

Veteran or military discounts are not available on the following trains and seats: 

• First Class seats 

College Students

Students in college or University may receive a College 6TIX Pass. It runs for a year on the trains on Downeaster. Specifically:

• Boston to North Station
• Brunswick and MA

College students should also bring their valid school ID upon purchasing. 

PWD (Persons With Disabilities) 

Adults with disabilities are eligible for a 10% discount on train fares. 

Downeaster train passengers also get a 50% discount on their fares.

Children with disabilities, on the other hand, receive 50% off. On top of this, they get another 10% discount on the standard Amtrak children discount. This is valid despite the service they use.

Amtrak additionally provides 10% off for passengers ages 8 or older with a companion.

Federal Employees

Amtrak provided discounted train tickets for government employees traveling along the Northeast Corridor.

Federal personnel traveling on official business are also provided subsidized coach prices.

However, they cannot simply purchase them on the website.

Instead, tickets should be reserved by email. So, if you are a federal employee, email Amtrak at [email protected].

Corporate Incentive Programs

There are also corporate incentive programs for trains traveling the Northeast Corridor.

This includes New York, Boston, and Washington D.C.

Group Travel 

Are you traveling with 20 or more travelers? There are convention and group discounts available to parties.

However, not all Amtrak routes provide it. Contact 1-800-USA-1GRP if you have any questions.

Amtrak Special and Seasonal Discounts

Train deals aren’t marketed as often as airplane promotions. But, did you know that there are actually a bunch of them?

In fact, Amtrak offers a broad variety of deals on its website. It’s easily accessible. Here are the two special and seasonal Amtrak discounts that you can benefit from: 

Weekly Specials

Amtrak’s weekly specials section is the best location to start your search for discounts. They feature up to 30% discounts from Tuesday to Friday.

The majority of promos are grouped by area. Deals vary per week. So, it’s best to check back every Tuesday.

Amtrak Deal Page

Amtrak also has a dedicated deal page. Here, you can find all the special deals per location and route. Perhaps the best thing about it is that they are long-term deals.

These promotions span for as long as 6-8 months. The discounts also stretch from 15 to 30% off. 

4. Vacation and Rail Passes and Packages

Another way to score cheap and lower Amtrak tickets is through rail or vacation-themed packages.

Rail passes provide a predetermined number of rail travels over a specified period. On the other hand, vacation packages allow travelers to go on vacation and travel by train. 

Multi-Ride Tickets

If you’re going to be using the train a lot, you’ll save money by purchasing a multi-ride ticket.

And if you’re looking for a versatile package, the Monthly Rail Pass is a good option. However, there are limitations to these passes. 

The vast majority of long-distance railway lines do not service this pass. But for those who use the train often within an area or between two nearby regions, this pass will be a sensible investment.

Ten-Ride Passes 

Ten-ride passes can have a 45-60 day validity. These passes are also valid for 10 journeys, as the name suggests. 

Even so, rates vary based on the traveler’s region and trip arrangements. These tickets are more suitable for seldom train passengers. This way, they save money when traveling between two and six months.

Themed Rail Vacation Package  

Amtrak’s themed rail vacation packages are especially great for vacationers. It’s very similar to travel tour packages, but Amtrak style.

Check out the Amtrak website for more details and specials.

5. Third-Party Websites 

As we mentioned, Amtrak only has a few booking partners. And, they don’t offer their own discounted rates or promos.

Most of the time, they only display the existing rates on the websites. So, although you can purchase train tickets on sites such as Omio or Wanderu , their pricing will be exactly the same as  Amtrak.com

When Are Amtrak Tickets Cheapest? The Bottomline

Everyone loves a good discount, especially when traveling.

If you’re wondering what Amtrak tickets are the cheapest, it’s when you book ahead of time.

There are also a plethora of ways and existing discounts for you to score a bang-for-buck ticket that we have listed above.

Safe travels

Amtrak Discounts: A Guide to Cheaper Train Tickets

By Sascha Segan

Note: This story contains expired deal information.

If you can plan ahead, there's no reason to pay full price for most Amtrak tickets. Previously, you could enter promotion codes during the payment process on Amtrak.com . You can still do that with some discounts, but most price cuts now require you to book your trip through a dedicated link. Either way, you'll still save 15%–20% on every ticket.

We've found so many Amtrak discounts that we're segmenting them by region. You're likely to find discounts for most popular routes with two gaping exceptions: There aren't many discounts for the east-to-west cross-country routes, and there aren't many discounts specifically for New York City.

Nationwide Amtrak Discounts

Before you start clicking links, make sure to check Amtrak's Weekly Specials, on sale between Tuesday and Friday each week. These are deeply discounted fares (often up to 80% off) that can be for any train in the country. It's a grab bag, but you might get lucky. Check them out here .

There's an ongoing 25% discount (with a 14-day advance purchase) for Northeast Regional trains, the popular line that runs from Boston to D.C. The lower fares automatically turn up when you search, and they're lower than most of the alternatives here. This means the alternatives are better for non-Northeast Regional trains, or for purchases between 3 and 14 days in advance.

Membership has its privileges. If you're a senior citizen, U.S. military, or a member of AAA, Veterans' Advantage, ISIC, Student Advantage, or the National Association of Rail Passengers, you can get a discount on Amtrak fares just by clicking the right box on Amtrak's purchase page. High school juniors and seniors traveling with an adult can get a 50% discount by buying their tickets at www.campusvisit.com . NARP doesn't have any membership requirements beyond the $35 annual fee, and it nets you a 10% discount.

All of these deals have some blackout dates: April 22, 24 and 25, May 27, July 1-2, Sept 2. and 5, Oct. 7, Nov. 22-23, and Nov. 26-28. None of them work with the high-speed Acela Express train. And all of them require you to buy your tickets 3 days in advance, so plan ahead.

New England Amtrak Discounts (ME, MA, VT, RI, CT)

Vermont really wants people to come by train. If you're visiting Vermont from outside the state, book here for 20% off any trip through Oct. 31. But if you're traveling within the state, book here for a flat $12 fare on any in-state trip, through Dec. 31.

If you're traveling on the Downeaster train between Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine northbound in the morning and southbound in the afternoon/evening, you can get two tickets for the price of one by using discount code V773 . That's good through July 1, 2011. Up to two children can also ride free on that train with one paying adult if you use discount code V581 .

Massachusetts -bound travelers: For any train to Massachusetts (but not trips leaving Massachusetts) on the Downeaster, the Northeast Corridor, or the one daily train from Albany, you can get 20% off by booking here . Good for travel through Dec. 15, 2011.

For trips to/from Rhode Island , save 15% by booking here . Good for travel through Dec. 31, 2011.

For trips to/from Connecticut , save 20% by booking here . Good through March 31, 2011.

Mid-Atlantic Amtrak Discounts (NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, DC, VA)

Traveling in New York State , or to Montreal ? You have two good options. First, try booking with this link , which gets you 20% off any in-state (or Montreal) ticket for travel through May 31. If you're riding the Adirondack train (that's the Montreal train) on a Thursday-Sunday before April 28 and if the resulting fare is higher than $89 round-trip, use this link for an $89 Adirondack round-trip instead.

If you're traveling to/from Philadelphia before July 13, use this link to save 15% off each ticket.

But if you're traveling to/from Philadelphia between July 15 and Dec. 20, use this link to save 30% off a second ticket, which is like saving 15% off each ticket if you travel as a pair.

For 30% off a second ticket to/from Wilmington, DE , book here . Good for travel through Dec. 20, 2011.

For trips to/from Baltimore, MD , get 30% off a second ticket by booking here . Good for travel through Dec. 20, 2011.

For trips to/from BWI Airport, MD , get 30% off a second ticket by booking here . Good for travel through Dec. 20, 2011.

For trips to/from Washington, D.C. , get 30% off a second ticket by booking here . Good for travel through Dec. 20, 2011.

Southeast Amtrak Discounts

There aren't many discounts in the Southeast right now, unfortunately. I've seen North Carolina discounts in the past, though, so keep your eyes out for future changes.

For trips to Orlando, Winter Park, and Kissimmee, FL on the Silver Star and Silver Meteor trains, you can get 15% off an adult fare by using discount code V104 . Good for travel through Dec. 31, 2011.

Midwest Amtrak Discounts

Note that many of these discounts only cover short-distance trains -- except for the St. Louis link, you can't use them for the long interstate routes.

For trips to or from most Michigan cities on the short-distance Blue Water, Pere Marquette, and Wolverine trains, you can get 15% off by booking here . Good for travel through April 30, 2011.

For trips to or from any city in Illinois on the short-distance Carl Sandburg, Illini, Illinois Zephyr, Lincoln Service, and Saluki trains, you can get 20% off by booking here . Good through April 30, 2011. Note that this won't get you a discount on long-distance trains that don't originate in Illinois or Missouri.

For trips to or from St. Louis , MO on any train, you can get 20% off by booking here . Good for travel through May 2, 2011.

For trips to any city in Missouri on the short-distance Missouri River Runner train, you can get 15% off by booking here . Good for travel through April 30, 2011.

West Coast Amtrak Discounts

The Portland and Seattle versions of the "Chinook Book" coupon book include a 25%-off coupon for Amtrak Cascades trains, which run through Oregon, Washington, and up to Vancouver, B.C. The book costs $20, so it's hard to make that math work if you're just doing it for the Amtrak coupon. But the book has hundreds of coupons for either Portland or Seattle merchants that you might find otherwise helpful.

The East Bay and Silicon Valley, CA versions of the Chinook Book include buy-one-get-one-free coupons for the Capitol Corridor train. The same concerns as above apply; it might make sense if you intend to use more of the local coupons. You can find the full list of coupons at www.chinookbook.net .

For trips to Santa Barbara, Goleta, Carpinteria, Solvang, Buellton, Lompoc, Surf, Guadalupe, and Santa Maria, CA on the Pacific Surfliner or San Joaquin trains, you can get 20% off by clicking here . Good through Dec. 19. 2011.

For trips to Grover Beach, San Luis Obispo, and Paso Robles, CA on the Pacific Surfliner or Coast Starlight trains, you can get 20% off by signing up here . Good for travel through Dec. 31, 2011.

Have you uncovered any other great Amtrak discount codes?

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On the Rails: When Trains Make Sense for Family Trips

A re you planning a family vacation, but not sure the best way to get there? Wondering if it is cheaper to travel by train or plane? Well, considering all the factors involved, traveling by train could be a great choice for families who are in it for the experience! 

Not only can taking a rail journey provide unique opportunities for shared travel experiences, but sometimes planes aren’t always the cheapest option. Here we’ll explore when and why traveling by train might make sense to overbook an expensive flight within the United States. So pack your bags and hop aboard – let’s set off, destination unknown!

Pros and Cons of Traveling by Train vs. Plane

When it comes to travel, there are many options to choose from. Three popular modes are by train, by plane, or by car. We do really love to pack up the car for a good road trip, but that’s a different kind of vacation that allows for much more exploration while you are on the road. We’ll leave those types of family vacations out here, but you can read more on our planning trips for a cross-country road trip if you want to go that route. 

While both train and air travel have their advantages and disadvantages, it ultimately comes down to what works best for you. The key factors include cost, comfort, and convenience.

Pros of Air Travel

• Generally, journey times are much quicker than train travel.
• Some flights may be cheaper than train tickets (depending on the route).
• Multiple flight times are offered throughout the day for your convenience.
• The journey to the destination is a means to an end and you want to hurry up and get there.
• Can be cheaper to fly than take a train, especially for longer trips or when traveling with children ages 13 through 16.

Cons of Air Travel

• Airports can be chaotic, crowded, and uncomfortable for some travelers.
• You have to arrive at least two hours ahead of domestic flights departure time (due to check-in, security, and boarding).
• Airport security lines can take time and add to the stress of travel.
• Baggage fees are not included in the price of your plane tickets and add an extra cost to the final bill.
• Budget airlines like Spirit, Breeze, and others charge added fees for carry-ons, seating assignments, and other services. 

Pros of Train Travel

• Generally more comfortable than air travel with extra legroom and the ability to get up and move around on the train cars. 
• The journey can be part of the experience – trains offer spectacular views of places you won’t often get to see from a plane.
• Luggage allowances are higher for trains, allowing you to bring more items with you.
• No security lines or TSA hassles to worry about.
• Several popular train routes on the East Coast and Northeast Corridor offer high-speed routes.  
• Train stations are often in the city center, making it easier to get to your destination.
• Train travel also produces much less greenhouse gases and lower CO2 emissions per passenger kilometer compared to other modes of transport. 
• Amtrak and other rail lines offer discounted train fare for children, students, military members, veterans, and seniors.

Cons of Train Travel

• Train routes can take longer than flight times (depending on the route).
• Routes may not be available in all areas of the country. Anyone living in small towns may have to drive a bit, to reach their nearest train station.
• Amtrak trains often share rail lines with freight which can lead to delays.   
• Not all destinations are accessible by train – this depends largely on the country’s rail infrastructure 
• Rentals cars aren’t as convenient from train stations as they are from airports – You may have to travel a bit to get your rental car 

Is it Cheaper to Travel by Train or Plane within the United States?

The answer to this question of which costs less isn’t a clear-cut answer. It really depends on a few things. Trains are generally cheaper and more convenient if you’re traveling regionally or locally. Trains offer more direct routes from major cities and fewer security obstacles when compared to flying. Plus, they offer the allure of taking in the scenery on your journey.

Flying can be more expensive, especially when booking less than 30 days out or during peak travel times. However, planes can save you time, which may be more valuable to some. If you’re traveling long distances or cross country, however, flying might be the way to go. The cost of airfare can be more, but airlines often offer deals and specials that can make it more affordable. 

Allowances for Baggage

When it comes to baggage allowances, Amtrak is usually more generous than airlines when it comes to carrying luggage. Amtrak allows two personal items and 2 larger carry-on bags per passenger at no extra charge. That can save you a bundle if you’re going on an extended trip! 

On the other hand, airlines vary in their baggage allowance policies. Checked bags can vary between $30-$50 per bag each way, so it’s important to check the airline’s website for their rules and fees prior to booking. 

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Compare sample trip itineraries.

Let’s look at three examples. Note that the price is for one adult fare and luggage is not calculated into the airfare prices below. When traveling by train, luggage is often included in the ticket price and children riding with an adult receive a 50% discounted fare. The prices below are those available April 25, 2023. 

Example 1: Traveling from New York City to Boston 

Ticket Price – $138-158 round trip flying on JetBlue or Delta / $124 round trip for adults and $62 for children ages 2-12. Northeast Regional train

Time – 1-hour 10-minute flight / 4-hour 31-minute train

Which is better? When you consider the time spent prior to flight departure and getting to the airport, both flight and train times are nearly equal. Train travel would be the cheaper option, especially if you have luggage and travel with children.

Example 2: Travel between Austin and Los Angeles

Ticket Price – $256-268 round trip flying on Spirit or Delta / $268 round trip per adult and $134 round trip for children ages 2-12 aboard the Amtrak Texas Eagle

Time – 3 hours 15-minute direct flight / 32 hours 25-minutes train travel with stops in the Southwest 

Which is better? Costs are about the same for adult airfare and train tickets. The flights shown here are direct flights and the total travel time is much shorter than the train. But if you want a scenic journey, the Texas Eagle train stops in various places including Tucson and Palm Springs. 

Example 3: Travel between Chicago and Seattle

Ticket Price – $346-438 round trip flying on United or Alaska / $400 round trip for an adult and $200 round trip for a child aboard the Amtrak Empire Builder .

Time – 4 hours 37-minute direct flight / 46 hours 24-minute train travel with stunning views and stops in Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. 

Which is better? Flights would cost a family of four (with 2 children between ages 2-12) $1384. Train tickets for the same family are $1200. The train is the cheapest option here and the views aboard this train make the journey just as important as the destination. You get views of the Mississippi, Big Sky Country in Montana, Glacier National Park, and more. 

Scheduling Influences Whether You Fly or Take a Train 

When it comes to planning a trip, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important is scheduling, which can have a big impact on whether you choose to fly or take a train. For example, if you’re traveling a short distance and have a lot of time, taking a train might be the more relaxing and scenic option. 

Comfort & Enjoyment

 If you’re looking for comfort, a train might be the best choice as they usually offer more space with wider seats, longer legroom, and extra amenities such as onboard dining and free Wi-Fi (available depending on your route). 

If you want even more room and added comfort, trains offer sleeper bedrooms or smaller roomettes, which provide private sleeping compartments, meals, and beverages included in the ticket prices. Bedrooms are typically twice the size of a roomette and have a private bath.

Yes if you want to travel with privacy and comfort.  They are perfect for extended trips or for those who want an extra level of luxury during their travels. However, they do come at an added cost. 

Prices vary by route and availability, but you can expect to pay $900-$1500 per person for a roomette and even more for a sleeper bedroom. 

When flying it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your departure time. Most airports also have long security lines that can eat up precious time, whereas trains don’t require such long wait times. 

Personally, I find it more enjoyable to take the train. You can get up, move around and take in the scenery without worrying about turbulence or being confined to your seat. When I travel with my children, they often enjoy the train more because of these benefits.

One of my favorite train journeys is up the California coast from San Diego to Anaheim. Traffic along that stretch is heavy and the train is a relaxing way to see the sights. The Empire Builder Amtrak train journey from Chicago to Seattle or Whitefish, Montana is on my bucket list to do one winter.  

Ultimately, it is a personal choice. When taking the time and comfort into consideration, you may find that train travel provides an enjoyable experience that flying cannot match. With some planning and research into ticket prices and options, you can decide which mode of transportation best fits your needs. So when considering whether to fly or take a train, remember to weigh both costs and comfort. 

Deciding Which Transportation Option is Best for You and Your Family 

Choosing the right transportation option for you and your family can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! Ask yourself a few simple questions to determine which one is best for your lifestyle. 

• Are you looking for a budget-friendly option?
• Are you willing to pay for convenience? 
• Do you prioritize comfort and space?
• Do you value environmental sustainability? 
• How far are you traveling? 
• How long of a vacation are you planning?

Once you have answers to these questions, you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution and what works for one family may not work for another. So, take your time, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect fit that makes financial sense for you and your loved ones. 

For more help planning your next trip, start with:

• Comparing popular routes and train fare on the Amtrack Website
• Learn how to save for a vacation
• Tips on how to plan a vacation
• Benefits of traveling with family
• Once in a lifetime things to do in Colorado

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• Easy Camp Cooking Facebook Group

Don’t forget to invite your friends to our Facebook groups! We would also love to see your vacation pictures!

For more family travel inspiration, check out our latest posts here:

• From Darkness to Adventure: Exploring Best 6 Caves near Springfield MO
• Don’t Get Grounded: Everything You Need to Know About Liquids in Your Carry-On!
• Experience the Best of Muscle Shoals with Your Family: From Music to Natural Wonders
• 4 Places to Swim with Otters in the US
• Unlock the Magic of Costa Rica: Discover the Best Time to Fly to Paradise
• 26 Things to Do in Downtown San Diego With Your Family

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• Find low fares with  airfarewatchdog , Skyscanner , and  WayAway.com .
• Get airfare deal alerts up to 90% off from Dollar Flight Club (free & paid membership options)
• Book your plane ticket with   Expedia  or  Kayak
• Book your Airport Parking Reservations and save money.
• Take the scenic route and rent an RV from  RVShare
• Get packed for an  epic road trip  and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com .
• From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with  Hotels.com  or  booking.com.
• For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot .
• Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from  Away and Eagle Creek .
• For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher .
• Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
• For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
• Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
• CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
• Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
• Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
• Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
• Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours .
• Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App .
• We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my  travel resources page  for more trusted partners.

The post On the Rails: When Trains Make Sense for Family Trips appeared first on Little Family Adventure .