How to Book Train Travel From Tampa to Charleston

To travel from Tampa to Charleston by train is a leisurely trip with friendly people and a gorgeous landscape. You'll be glad you booked a seat on this scenic route.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Access to the Internet to book travel tickets.
• A telephone.

Schedule Your Trip

1. Peruse the train schedules online. Amtrak offers daily 10-hour trips from Tampa to Charleston on its Silver Star line. Pick the one that best fits your budget and itinerary and book it!

2. Consider changing trains in Orlando or Savannah to break up your trip, save money or simply to spend time in one of these lovely cities.

3. Book your tickets online in advance. Print your confirmation number and itinerary and take it with you to the Tampa station on the date of your departure.

Pack Your Bags

4. Check the weather before you leave and remember to pack a jacket in your carry-on if you are traveling to Charleston in the winter months.

5. Stash snacks and reading materials in your carry-on bag, as well. You'll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy yourself on the train.

6. Limit your carry-on luggage to 2 bags. All additional luggage must be checked at the Tampa Union Station before you board. Keep checked luggage under 150 lb to avoid paying a fee.

Ride the Rails

7. Decide if you want to reserve a sleeper car. Know that if you want to catch up on uninterrupted sleep before you arrive in Charleston, sleeper cars must be booked before you travel.

8. Consider deboarding the train in Orlando or Savannah, which are stops along the way. Find out how long the stop is so you don't miss your chance to get back on-board!

9. Enjoy a meal. Once on board the train, you can reserve meals in the dining car or purchase snacks at any time. If you have a restrictive diet, such as vegetarian or kosher, be sure to let them know. They can accommodate almost any diet.

Tips & Warnings

• Check for discounts through Amtrak's Web site (see below) or by contacting a representative. Children, seniors and card-holding members of clubs like AAA are all qualified for standard Amtrak dicounts.
• Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL or visit the link below.
• Always plan to arrive at the station far in advance of boarding time, just as you would if you were flying. Security lines should not be as much of an issue as when flying, but you'll want to allow time to check any luggage and secure a good seat, which are not always assigned through Amtrak.