Going through Amtrak's website takes a lot of the headaches out of trip planning. Not only are fares spelled out online, you can also take care of reserving sleeping quarters at the same time. If your reservation involves switching trains, give yourself plenty of time for a layover at the station. The website also has information about amenities offered onboard. This is the place to find out items like lounge service, times to eat all three meals, and where sitting cars are located for reading and socializing with friends.
If your trek is longer than 24 hours, you'll want to consider sleeping accommodations. Your compartment contains a private bathroom and sitting area. It also has windows to look out and enjoy the scenery, and you can go back and forth between coach class cars and your private quarters to mingle with passengers. Guests wanting more privacy when changing for bed or for dining will want these private rooms. You may book sleeping quarters with your train ticket at time of purchase.
Long-distance Amtrak routes often take in scenic parts of the country like the Grand Canyon area, the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. The national timetable offered by Amtrak gives you times when your trains will pass through certain areas. If you are on a Chicago to Los Angeles trek, for example, this will tell you when to look out for the sweeping vistas of Colorado or when you'll cross the Mississippi River.
Unlike other rewards programs that give you points for every mile, Amtrak points are based on every dollar spent. The more you spend on Amtrak, the better the chance you'll have an amenity coming your way sooner. In 2011, guests earned two points for every dollar spent and 500 bonus points just for signing up. Staying at certain hotels and shopping at certain stores under the Amtrak program offer chances to earn bonus points toward future travel.
You may check up to three bags, each bag no heavier than 50 pounds, without charge. In addition, you may take two carry-on bags aboard without charge. Although Amtrak's baggage rules are generous compared with most airlines, you'll want to pack as light as possible. For trips involving one overnight, bring a change of clothes in your carry-on. Toiletries and other personal articles should go in carry-on bags since checked bags can't be accessed during the trip.
