How Many Bags Can You Bring on Amtrak?
How Many Bags Can You Bring on Amtrak?
Blog Article
How Many Bags Can You Bring on Amtrak?
Traveling by train can be a relaxing and scenic way to get from point A to point B. If you're planning a trip with Amtrak, you might be wondering, "How many bags can I bring?" Whether you're packing light for a quick getaway or bringing a lot for an extended stay, knowing Amtrak's baggage policies will help you plan better. Here's a simple guide to help you understand how many bags you can bring on Amtrak.
Carry-On Bags
Amtrak's carry-on policy is pretty generous compared to many airlines. Each passenger is allowed to bring two carry-on bags, free of charge. These bags can be a maximum of 28 x 22 x 14 inches and should not weigh more than 50 pounds each. This gives you plenty of space for your essentials, like a laptop, a change of clothes, or a few good books to read during your journey.
Pro Tip: If you have smaller items like a purse, diaper bag, or camera bag, these don't count as part of your carry-on allowance. You can bring these items along with your two carry-on bags without any extra charges.
Checked Bags
If you're traveling with more luggage or larger items, you can also check bags on Amtrak. Each passenger can check up to two bags for free. These checked bags can be a bit larger, with a maximum size of 75 linear inches (length + width + height) and a maximum weight of 50 pounds each.
For those who need to bring even more, Amtrak allows you to check up to two additional bags, but there is a fee of $20 per bag. So, in total, you can check up to four bags, as long as you're willing to pay the extra fees for the third and fourth bags.
Important Note: Not all Amtrak routes offer checked baggage service, so be sure to check the specific details for your train before you pack. You can find this information on Amtrak's website or by calling their customer service.
Special Items
If you're traveling with special items like bicycles, musical instruments, or sports equipment, Amtrak has specific policies for these too. Bikes can be brought on many trains, but you may need to make a reservation and pay a small fee. For larger items like musical instruments, you might need to check them in as part of your checked baggage allowance.
Tips for Packing
Label Your Bags: Make sure all your bags are clearly labeled with your name and contact information. This helps in case your luggage gets misplaced.
Pack Smart: Distribute the weight evenly among your bags to avoid any one bag being too heavy.
Fragile Items: If you have fragile items, carry them in your carry-on so you can keep an eye on them.
What If You Have Too Much Luggage?
If you find yourself with more bags than Amtrak's policy allows, you have a few options. You can consider shipping some items ahead of time using a service like Amtrak Express Shipping, which can be convenient but does require some advance planning. Another option is to consolidate your items into fewer bags to fit within the allowance.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with Amtrak can be a stress-free experience if you know their baggage policies. With the allowance of two carry-on bags and two checked bags for free, most travelers find they have plenty of space for their needs. Just remember to check if your specific train offers checked baggage service and be prepared to pay a little extra if you need to bring more.
Whether you're going on a short trip or a long adventure, understanding how many bags you can bring on Amtrak will help you pack smart and travel smoothly. Enjoy your journey and happy travels!
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Amtrak experience is enjoyable and hassle-free. Bon voyage!