1. Money savings
If you're watching your wallet, trains are an increasingly cost-effective alternative to planes, particularly if you're going a relatively short distance or if you're traveling in the busy Northeast Corridor, where train service is fast and frequent.
In a recent search, we found a low airfare of $259 roundtrip for an October flight from Philadelphia to Boston; on the train, the price was just $160 roundtrip. We saw an even more dramatic price differential on a trip from New York to Montreal: $632 roundtrip by air versus just $124 on the train. In both instances the train ride was longer than the corresponding flight, but for travelers looking to cut costs, the train wins out — and you'll get to see some scenery along the way.
Amtrak and other rail operators usually give discounts to children, seniors, students, AAA members, military personnel and other key demographics. See our list of rail travel deals for more opportunities to save.
2. Stable fares
Anyone who's agonized over when to purchase airfare knows how arcane and frustrating the airlines' pricing structures can be. (We're still waiting for a logical explanation of why a one-way ticket costs so much more than a round trip. Anyone? Anyone?) Train fares tend to be the same day after day on any particular route, whether it's Monday or Saturday, April or August, two months in advance or two days before departure. While some increases may occur (particularly at peak times or over the holidays) and occasional sales may be available, you can usually count on train fares being relatively stable, even at the last minute.
3. Flexibility
Except on long-haul or infrequently traveled routes, trains tend to offer travelers a great deal of flexibility. Missed the 10 a.m. train? Just catch the 10:30 or 11 a.m. train instead. Most short trips do not require prior reservations, and you can simply show up at the station the day of your trip and grab a ticket for the next train — without paying an exorbitant last-minute fare.
4. More baggage ...
These days, nearly all the major airlines charge domestic travelers a fee to check two bags — and many of them will charge you to check just one. Compare these stingy policies to Amtrak's baggage allowance:
“Each passenger may bring aboard no more than two pieces of carry-on baggage. Not included in this limit are personal items such as briefcases, purses, laptops, and infant paraphernalia such as strollers, diaper bags and car seats. ... Each carry-on bag may weigh no more than 50 lbs.”
vs.
“Each ticketed passenger may check up to three pieces of luggage at no charge. ... Each checked bag may weigh no more than 50 lbs.”
In total, Amtrak allows you to bring 250 pounds of luggage — plus personal items — for free. Try bringing that on an airline!
5. ... Less hassle
Imagine taking a trip and not having to arrive two hours early, wait in a long security line, take off your shoes for inspection, or ration out your liquids and gels. Welcome to the world of train travel. In most cases you can arrive 30 minutes ahead of time and walk straight to your platform — with no security and no lines.
- Fares may be better than flying
- More allowances for luggage
- Less chance of delay
- Scenic train rides instead of road trips