How to Book Train Travel From Albuquerque to Los Angeles

Taking a train trip that is between 12 and 18 hours is a great way to get used to long distance train travel. The trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Los Angeles, California aboard Amtrak's Southwest Chief is just such a trip at 16 hours long. That's just enough time to enjoy all of the comforts of train travel without getting claustrophobic.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access for making reservations.

Choose Your Ticket Type

1. Book a Coach ticket if saving money is your goal. You get a large seat, folding table and overhead lamp, but no bed. Pillows will be provided on request. It's not the most comfortable option, but it is adequate. Think flying on the red-eye.

2. Book sleeper accommodations in Bedroom, Family Bedroom or Roomette compartments. These accommodations provide beds and linens and include meals. An additional accommodations charge is added to your seat fare per room.

Prepare for Meals Onboard

3. Make reservations for lunch and dinner. You can either visit the dining car or wait for the dining car attendant to make rounds. Reservations are necessary in order to ensure everyone has a seat.

4. Bring your own food if you have any dietary restrictions. While Amtrak will try to accommodate special meal requests, there is no guarantee that what you need will be available.

5. Expect quality food and service. Amtrak menus usually have a good amount of variety. Breakfasts usually offer eggs, sausage, french toast and continental options. Lunches usually offer burgers, sandwiches and salads. Dinners feature several different meats, fish and pasta. You should have no trouble finding something to eat.

Tips & Warnings

• Singles are typically paired with other singles in the dining car, as space is limited.
• Coach passengers must pay for their meals. Credit cards are accepted.
• Alcoholic beverages are served in the dining car and lounge.
• Amtrak sometimes provides a tour guide in the lounge to describe the local points of interest and southwest history.
• Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL or visit the link below.
• If you bring your own alcohol on board you can only consume it in your own sleeper quarters, not in public places.
• The track between Albuquerque and Los Angeles has been known to cause a less than smooth ride. Be careful when walking through cars to hold on to seats, rails or walls for stability. Ladies: opt for flat shoes over heels for train travel.