My wife & I are travelling across USA by plane and train - Amtrak. How do we handle luggage (4 bags) on train?

Question

We are in our late 50s. We are familiar with air travel, but some journeys are by train, and we are apprehensive about handling our luggage . We will have about 4 bags, 3 big (23 kgs each) and 1 small (7 kg). Are their trolleys available at stations. Can we get luggage handlers to assist us?

Answer 1

Yes, there are luggage trolleys at the stations ... though not an overabundance of them in my experience ... but I have never had a problem getting one as most people don't use them.

My hubby and I (62 and 49, he has a heart condition, I have limited mobility) frequently take Amtrak, riding coach (not sleeper class). We usually have one large bag and two smaller bags, which we don't check because of the particular train route we take. On other routes, we have checked them.

The seats downstairs in the two-level cars have more leg space, are close to restrooms, and near the excess baggage racks. The upstairs seats have decent leg room, better view, and easier access to the dining and observation cars.

I would recommend checking your larger baggage, and keeping out what you need for the trip ... entertainment, toiletries, etc. We always travel with sandwiches, fruit and vegies snacks, soft drinks, and water, as buying these on the train is expensive. However, meals in the dining car are reasonable and good.

Some stations do have red cap service, but you might have to ask for it.

Enjoy the trip!!!

Answer 2

My recommendation is to go to: www.amatrak.com and look under baggage and shipping. Amtrak now has RED CAP service in many major stations. They also have CHECKED LUGGAGE options for the longer trips by train. You can check under the recommended sections of AMTRAK'S website to learn more about services and availability.

Also, before you go, take the time to look your bags over. If your big bags do not have large sturdy wheels that allow them to be rolled on a variety of surfaces, you will have considerable trouble getting them from the car into the station (and wherever else you wish to roll them). It is worth the trouble to get at least one new large suitcase that rolls properly. Then you can get some luggage straps and fasten your smaller bags piggy-back to the back of the larger bags. This way, you don't really need a luggage trolley. Once you get into the station, you can check your big bags through to your final destination. If you are travelling in a sleeping berth, then pack one small bag each for carrying into your berth. Everything you might need for the train journey should be in that bag.

Finally, do travel lighter...experience will teach you that less is less stress and therefore more fun! Any little thing you thought you might need can be left behind and if it becomes important, the price cannot be more than the collected stress that toting big bags about will bring.

Good luck and bon voyage.

TM

Answer 3

About 3 years ago, I traveled by Amtrak train from Cleveland, OH to Vancouver, WA. We had accommodations which are about as big as a broom closet, no kidding. First off, each section had its own "concierge" type guy who helped us with luggage, etc. I had 4 bags with me, large ones because we were moving back to Hawaii and WA state was just a stopover with friends. I brought along a portable DVD player with lots of movies. I also brought my own "drink:." I don't know if they allow this, I had it in one of my bags. I figured since I was on the train for 2 days, I might as well enjoy it; glad I did too. Now, there is virtually no room for a lot of bags, but somehow, I got them in there. The porter suggested I leave 2 of my bags in an area meant for excess baggage. I didn't feel comfortable with this. Next, the bathrooms are so tiny it's a joke. There were larger bathrooms with showers in the compartments below. They served us 3 full meals each day and be on time, it goes fast but I must say, the food was excellent! The price of our tickets included the food too. There are lots of porters everywhere, in train stations, etc. so be ready to hand out tips. I don't know how long you'll be on the train so bring lots of things to do, books, puzzles, etc. I was glad to bring that portable DVD player, it really helped. Amtrak has a virtual web site so you can see what the "rooms" look like. If I had known better, I would have purchased a family size room, the biggest one. But they go fast. At night, the train conducter put a lot more speed in the travel, felt a little weird but what fun. Hope you have a great time; Aloha

Answer 4

Amtrak allows more bags on the train than airlines allow on planes, and larger ones. You should be fine. I would ask someone at the counter to advise you as to how to handle the luggage. Some luggage you can take on the train with you (recommended: toiletries or that is temperature sensitive), PLUS a change of clothes or two if it is more than a 1-day trip. You MAY be able to carry the others on the train or you may need to stow them. I'm not sure.

Answer 5

Amtrak has checked baggage as long as the bag does not weigh more than 50 lbs you are OK. you are allowed 2 checked bags per person and 2 carry-ons per person, that are a certain size.

Answer 6

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Answer 7

Call Amtrak.........................