How to Get Cheap Rail Fares

When you travel by rail, you can usually wait inside or outside for your train.

As airlines get more crowded and airports have long security lines, many travelers are reconsidering rail travel. Though Amtrak prices are sometimes higher than air travel, in cities like Boston and New York you can inexpensively get to centrally located train stations using public transportation. You also don't have to pay baggage fees for the first three checked bags. For families with young children choosing rail travel, family friendly Amtrak offers extra discounts, and the prices you find are not subject to fuel surcharges or airline taxes.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• AAA card

Instructions

Book early

1. Solidify your plans and book well in advance on Amtrak's website at Amtrak.com. Prices rise as the travel date nears, and the early bird truly gets the lowest prices.

2. Check weekly specials on the Amtrak website. Find different specials every Tuesday through Friday, for travel every day except Fridays and Sundays.

3. Use your discounts. AAA members and military families save 10 percent. Children younger than 2 ride free, and children 2 to 15 years old are half price. The AAA discount applies to the half-price fare, making travel even cheaper for families.

Tips & Warnings

• The Student Advantage card, for high school seniors and college students, costs $20 a year and offers a 15 percent discount on the adult fare. It is only worth purchasing if you are going to spend at least $135 on rail travel in one year.

References

• Amtrak prices
• Amtrak weekly specials

Resources

• Amtrak train