Most Amtrak trains offer a checked baggage facility. You can check up to three pieces of luggage onto a train at no additional cost plus three further pieces at $10 each. Bags must weigh under 50 lbs. and not exceed dimensions of 36 by 36 by 36 inches. You must check in baggage 30 minutes before departure and each piece should have a tag with your name and address. Checked baggage is available to claim between 30 and 60 minutes after arrival at your destination.
You can take two pieces of carry-on baggage on board Amtrak trains. This limit excludes personal items such as purses, laptops and baby items. Bags must weigh less than 50 lbs. and not exceed 28 by 22 by 14 inches. Each item must have a visible identification tag. You cannot include special items such as bicycles and ski equipment in carry-on baggage.
Firearms are prohibited on Amtrak trains until Dec. 15, 2010. After this date they may be included in checked baggage subject to the firearms policy available on Amtrak's website. Other prohibited items include incendiaries, large sharp objects, corrosive or dangerous chemicals, batteries that can leak and animals.
Amtrak does not accept any liability for loss of or damage to carry-on baggage. For checked baggage, claims for lost luggage must be made within 30 days of your arrival, ideally at your destination station or by calling Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL and asking for Customer Relations. You should make claims for damaged baggage immediately at your destination station. Amtrak's has a $500 limit per passenger on liability for damaged baggage.
