Amtrak is a preferred train company for traveling to different destinations in an affordable way. Amtrak trains run on around 335,138 routes touching 969 cities in 2 countries. Amtrak offers a host of facilities such as restrooms, extra legroom, snacks, loyalty rewards, air conditioning and power outlets on its trains. As an Amtrak traveler, you will realize that the journey is as important as the destination. It is not only about reaching a place but also enjoying the ride.

Amtrak offers a host of fares to suit every need. Amtrak fares start from as low as around $4 on short distances to $500 approximately on long haul journeys.

Saver fares

Fares are the lowest and include the heavily discounted offers such as the 14-day advance purchase and flash fares. These are not refundable in the event of cancellation, but the ticket value will be stored in an eVoucher as credit which can be redeemed on future Amtrak train ticket prices. If it has not been canceled before the scheduled departure, then the entire amount cannot be applied towards future travel and is forfeited. Saver fares are applicable to only a limited number of seats and trains.

Value fares

Fully refundable when the tickets are canceled more than 48 hours before the scheduled departure, but around 20% fee is charged if the cancellation period is less than 48 hours from the onset of the journey. The fare can also be stored in an eVoucher for future Amtrak travel. Similar to saver fares, if the ticket is not canceled and the intended traveler does not show up, the entire amount is forfeited. Value fares are applicable on all trains and buses, but the number of seats available is limited.

Flexible fares

Completely refundable Amtrak fares without any refund fee charge. They can also be stored as credit in an eVoucher for future Amtrak travel. The fare is available on most of the trains.

Amtrak routes and schedules

To the uninitiated, schedules and timetables are almost the same. But there is a difference. A schedule will provide you with a comprehensive listing of available routes for your selected departure and arrival cities for date or dates chosen by you. A timetable is a printed or downloadable listing of all the departure and arrival times for Amtrak trains. Amtrak operates passenger trains between cities which include long-distance routes and regional routes in the Northeast, Illinois, Michigan, California and Pacific Northwest. The more popular of the routes are Baltimore to Newark, San Diego to Los Angeles, Los Angeles to Sacramento, Newark to Baltimore. Acela Express trains are the fastest trains running in the North East corridors between Boston and Washington DC and touching the major cities of New York, Baltimore, and Philadelphia.

Best sites to get deals

Amtrak.com

The best way to get a deal on an Amtrak train is to get it straight from Amtrak itself. Other than an occasional promo which would be online only, you’ll get the same price everywhere. Amtrak offers weekly sales, three-day flash sales, and special holiday fares. They also offer discounts to families traveling with children, students, and others. Stay connected to their websites and social media sites for updates regarding deals.

Railserve.com

It is at the forefront when you want information regarding train services. It is a kind of online directory for rail. Critically acclaimed by magazines, books, and online publications, it services more than 200,000 visitors per month. You can set notifications to know when the deals are put up by Amtrak because they are rarely advertised.

Wanderu.com

Their site lists Amtrak as a premier train company with expansive coverage. Wanderu helps you in your search for Amtrak train ticket prices. With their search engine, you can find Amtrak schedules’ fares to match your budget for multiple days, timings and corridors. You can use the filters on the site to find the best deals. Moreover, if you do not have any specific destination in mind, it can still help you to find an affordable destination when you are looking for a way to get out of your city.

Tips to maximize the benefits

• It is advisable to make your reservation as early from the date of travel as possible to get the best prices.
• Amtrak fares are restricted during holidays and peak travel seasons
• Amtrak fares vary in the Northeast depending on the time of the day and day of travel.
• Changes in your travel plans may affect the fare, and a subsequent fee may apply when the tickets are reissued.
• The cheapest day of travel is Wednesday unless a holiday falls on this day while the most expensive day is Friday because of the traveling habits of people.
• Rides are more crowded than usual in the evenings on Saturdays while the quietest times are early Sunday mornings on the train.
• Timetables do not reflect temporary changes; therefore it is advisable to confirm timing with an online search at Amtrak.com.