Book tickets on Amtrak's early morning 89 Palmetto for same day direct service into Savannah from New York with lounge car only service.
Sleep some and dine a little aboard Amtrak's 97 Silver Meteor service by booking its late afternoon departure from New York arriving into Savannah first thing next day.
Steer clear of Amtrak's Regional 67 service, departing New York at 3 a.m., as it connects and with the later leaving 89 Palmetto train in Washington D.C. Save time by booking tickets on the 89 Palmetto line directly if at all possible.
Arrive early, as last-minute passengers can push travel back if you're not aboard 15 minutes before departure!
Book tickets for travel during holiday periods at least a week in advance, as many New Yorkers enjoy riding the rails to Savannah on their off time.
Get tickets at the last minute. Travelers without tickets can often arrive to the station close to departure time, and get the seats of those unfortunates who reserved and didn't show up on time or those who simply opted out.
Bring comfort items such as a pillow, a blanket or even a full change of clothes, as the trip from New York to Savannah is rather lengthy.
Play games. Games playing in the lounge car can pass the time and help you make new friends--cards, chess and backgammon are perennial favorites.
