So recently my husband and I took the Amtrak train from NYC to Rhode Island, this was our first out of state train ride as many of our day trips have been done by the metro trains. I am sharing things I learned and wish I knew before our first train trip.
1. Book your Amtrak in Advance
We took economy Amtrak there and Acela business class back.Book in Advance Book in advance for the best price and deals
2. Finding the Station
Finding the Amtrack station deep within the bowels of Penn Station can be difficult, follow the signs if coming from the subway, it is also where you can pick up NJ transit.
3. Pre Boarding Seating
There is a waiting area with seats in Penn Station with a few places to eat like Starbucks, Dunkin etc. if you are planning to get to the station early.
4. Luggage Size and Requirements
You can check your bag, or bring it on board depending on the train. We brought our large suitcase and 2 small ones on board and put them in the overhead luggage area. Find Red Cap employees that provide free baggage-handling assistance if you need an extra hand. Check out the Amtrak site for specific sizing.
5. Track Assignment is Quick
They call your train and track like 10 minutes before it is set to leave, and there is a mad dash by everyone, no joke.
6. Finding your Amtrak Car
Look on the platform it should label the car numbers and car classes (economy, business, quiet car etc)
7. Food and Drink on the Train
Bring your own, you will have a tray table or actual table to eat at. There is a cafe car and dining car on most Amtrak trains.
8. Wifi and Chargers
Most trains have wifi and chargers by each set of seats but don’t count on it, our train there had them but not our train back.
9. Pay Attention to the Stops
Most of the time there will be an announcement about the next stop and then 15 minutes out, but if traveling late at night pay attention since they probably won’t make a loud announcement.
10. Amtrak Observation Car
Check to see if your route has an observation car, it is usually on longer routes but they are lounges with floor to ceiling windows.
11. Join the Rewards Program and get the Amtrak App
The app can be an easy place to access your ticket and check station info, timing etc. and the rewards program is free to join and worth it if you plan to take even a few rides.
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