Amtrak Guest Rewards - 2012 Amtrak Promotions and Discounts

Please Read This Post First!

Welcome to the 2012 Amtrak discount codes and promotions thread! If you are looking for a discount please read the information below. Discounts are organized by region for quick reference. If nothing is listed for your route, check the national promotions section for nationwide discounts.

Note: ByeByeDelta has asked me to give him a hand in maintaining this topic, which is why I've started it such that both of us will be able to edit it.

@:-) NEW! - When you see this icon, it means the following is new or updated information.


Train Status Statistics
Use the following site to track up to four weeks of a particular train's on-time performance at a particular station. Very useful tool to guesstimate how your train will run.
http://amtrakdelays.onlineschedulingsoftware.com


Additional longer term, summary data by month can be found at Amtrak.
http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?c=Page&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732511&cid=1237608335166

AmSnag - Fare Finder

Use AmSnag (http://biketrain.netfirms.com/amsnag/amSnag.php) to view all available prices for a set date range between two stations. Very handy locating which day has the lowest fare.

Disclaimer! - Use these codes at your own risk. Many are targeted for specific people/organizations which may require proof of eligibility when booking or picking tickets up. Conductors may also verify eligibility onboard the train.

Additional Resource RailServe (http://www.railserve.com/amtrak_coupons.html) also maintains a good list of promotions and discount codes. Utilize both resources to find the best deals for you.

General Terms and Blackouts: Most discounts require a three day advance purchase. Sleeper accommodations, Auto Train, weekday Acela Express service and non-Amtrak operated Thruway services are typically excluded as well. Check with Amtrak for specific terms and conditions before booking. Most promotions and discounts are not applicable during high-demand periods.

Blackout dates also apply to Guest Rewards ticket redemptions. Select Plus members have access to "Rule Buster" awards during blackout periods by spending additional points.

2012 Promotion Blackout Dates: Jan 2; Feb 17 & 20; May 27; July 1-2; September 2, 5; October 7; November 22-23, 26-28; December 21-24, 26-30.

2012 Guest Rewards Blackout Dates: January 2, February 17 & 20; April 5-6, 9; May 25; July 1-2; August 31; September 3; October 5; November 20-21 & 24-26; December 20–23 & 26–30.

National Promotions


H863 - 30% Off Companion Fare
Valid for bookings made September 3 through December 15, 2011 for travel January 3 through April 30, 2012. Discount must be booked via 800-USA-RAIL. Not valid on Acela, Auto Train, Northeast Regionals, Keystones, Ethan Allen, Vermonter, Capitol Corridor, Cascades, Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquin and 7000-8999 Thurway bus service.

Seniors - 15% off
Amtrak travelers 62 years of age and over receive a 15% discount on the applicable adult rail fare on most Amtrak trains.

Student Advantage - 15% off
College students can purchase the Student Advantage cards to receive discounts at hundreds of retailers, including a 15% discount on Amtrak travel and Amtrak Express shipping. Amtrak reservations must be made at least three days in advance to receive discount. http://www.studentadvantage.com/discountcard/pjp?id=9191

International Student Identification Card - 15% off
Students holding an International Student Identification Card will receive 15% off the rail fare on most routes. Must present ISIC and school ID card to qualify for discount. Excludes weekday Acela Express services and connecting non-Amtrak operated services. Reservations must be made at least three days in advance. Visit
http://www.myisic.com/

Veteran's Advantage - 15% off Unlike Student Advantage, you really do have to be a veteran for this one. http://www.veteransadvantage.com/partners/amtrak-50.html

AAA - 10% off
American Automobile Association members save 10% off adult rail fares. Three day advance reservation required.

Military Discount - 10% off
Active duty US military personnel, along with their spouses and their dependents, are eligible to receive a 10% discount off most Amtrak rail fares in the US, including travel on the Auto Train.

National Association of Railroad Passengers 10% discount - Join NARP, support Amtrak and receive a 10% discount on most rail fares! http://www.narprail.org/cms/index.php/main/discount/

@:-) NEW! Buy One, Get One 50% Off with Campus Visit - Amtrak has partnered with Collegia to make the process of selecting a college more affordable. Our buy one, get one 50% off Campus Visit® Discount is the smart way for high school juniors and seniors and their parents to check out their top college choices. Certain blackout dates apply. All details for promotion, as well as the link for booking reservations can be found at http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1246042642393



Hot Deals and Weekly Specials


Amtrak posts special, online-only railfares between Tuesday and Friday each week. Fares are typically good for travel to/from any two stations located between the listed origin and destination stations. Fares are always shown for one-way travel.

The Hot Deals page lists other promotions that are usually booked without a discount code. Be sure to visit these pages often for the latest information.

SmartFares (http://tickets.amtrak.com/itd/amtrak/Smart-Fares)

Hot Deals! (http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer/Page/1237405732514/1237405732514)



Guest Rewards Promotions


Refer-A-Friend Enrollment Bonus - See the Sign-up Thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/amtrak-guest-rewards/1174337-signing-up-amtrak-guest-rewards.html) for all details.




Northeast Routes


@:-) NEW! Save 30% off Companion Railfare to/from Rhode Island
Purchase one regular fare adult ticket and receive 30% off a companion to/from Providence, Kingston and Westerly, RI. Valid for sale through December 16, 2012 and for travel through December 19, 2012. Advance purchase required. Blackout dates apply. No upgrades permitted. Must be booked via this link on Amtrak.com (http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1246042714092&WT.mc_t=RhodeIslandCVB2011_EXT&WT.mc_n=RhodeIslandPage&WT.mc_r=365).

Save 25% off Northeast Regional Railfare
Book at least 14 days in advance and the railfare will be automatically discounted 25%. Use of promotion codes when booking more than 14 days in advance will replace the 25% discount and result in a higher fare. Upgrading to Business Class will also cancel out the 25% discount and result in a higher fare.

V543 - Seniors: Half Off Travel on the Downeaster
Senior passengers 62 and older are entitled to half-off the regular one-way coach fares. Not valid in business class. Valid I.D. is required when purchasing tickets and while traveling. Reference promotion code V543 when making a reservation.

V581 - Kids Ride FREE Sunday on the Downeaster
Kids are half fare every day on the Downeaster, but now through June 2012, kids ride for FREE on Sundays. Reference promotion code V581.

PLEASE NOTE: Tickets must be purchased three days in advance of travel to take advantage of this discount. Offer Expires June 30, 2012. Some blackout dates may apply.

Save 15% in New York
Save on travel throughout New York State on the Adirondack, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express and Maple Leaf. Valid for sale through May 28, 2012 and for travel through May 31, 2012.

Must book online via this link on Amtrak.com (http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248543674165). Advance purchase required. Blackout dates apply.

@:-) NEW! $89 Round-trip Train Fares between NYC and Montreal on the Adirondack
Book a weekend getaway on the Adirondack for just $89. Valid Thursday through Monday only and all travel must be completed within 5 days. Valid for sale from January 2 through April 23 for travel between January 5 – April 26. Must book 3 days in advance.

Further details and link for booking at http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=Yes&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544830145



Southern Routes


No current promotions. Know about one we missed? Please share in this thread!




Midwestern Routes


20% Off Select Michigan Routes
Save 20% when traveling on select Michigan trains between January 1st and April 30th. Reservations can be booked between December 1st, 2011 and April 29th, 2012 and must be made at least 1 day before travel. Special note: The promo reads 1 day, but this is not normal for Amtrak. Generally they require 3 days, so be careful!

The following dates are blacked out for the discount; Jan 2nd, Feb 17 & 20, Apr 5-6 & 9th. Up to 2 children may accompany 1 adult at half fare. Valid for travel on the following services: Blue Water, Pere Marquette, and Wolverine. Upgrade to Business Class is allowed upon payment of full, normal upgrade charge.

Reservations must be book via this link (http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544987369) at Amtrak.

@:-) NEW! 20% Discount on Train Tickets between St. Louis and Kansas City, MO
Book your Missouri trip now through April 28, 2012 for travel January 3 –April 30, 2012 on the scenic Missouri River Runner. Blackout dates February 17 and 20, April 5-6 & 9.

Additional restrictions and booking link at http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544987525

@:-) NEW! Illinois Travel Specials: Save 20% on Train Tickets to Chicago, Quincy, St. Louis and More
Book your Illinois trip now through April 29, 2012 for travel January 1 – April 30, 2012 on convenient routes including the Carl Sandburg, Illini, Illinois Zephyr, Lincoln Service and Saluki. Blackout dates February 17 and 20, April 5-6 & 9.

Additional restrictions and booking link at http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544987449


@:-) NEW! Get a 25% Discount on Travel between Chicago, St. Louis, Kansas City and Grand Rapids in January
Save 25% on tickets purchased in January for travel during the month of May on the following routes, Missouri River Runner, Lincoln Service, and the Pere Marquette. May 25th is blacked out. Additional details & restrictions, along with the link required for booking this discount can be found at http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248543314245



Western Long Haul Routes







Northwestern Routes


No current promotions. Know about one we missed? Please share in this thread!




Southwestern Routes

No current promotions. Know about one we missed? Please share in this thread!

Many thanks to AlanB for agreeing to start the 2012 discount thread and help keep it updated for the coming year. ^

Sorry jackal. Beat you to the first post this year. :)

Many thanks to AlanB for agreeing to start the 2012 discount thread and help keep it updated for the coming year. ^

Sorry jackal. Beat you to the first post this year. :)

I still win the first non-AGR-mod, non-OP post, though! :p

I still win the first non-AGR-mod, non-OP post, though! :p

:D "Always look on the bright side of FT!" *whistles*

Must book through this link

http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248543674165

T&C
#
ffer is exclusively available at Amtrak.com via the I Love New York website.
#
Valid for 15% off the regular (full) adult rail fare.
#
Valid for sale May 28, 2011 - May 28, 2012.
#
Valid for travel May 31, 2011 - May 31, 2012.
#
Advance reservations are required a minimum of three days prior to travel.
#
Blackout dates:
- July 1-2, 2011
- September 2 and 5, 2011
- October 7, 2011
- November 22-23 and 26-28, 2011
- December 21-24 and 26-30, 2011
- January 2, 2012
- February 17 and 20, 2012
- April 5, 6 and 9, 2012
- May 25, 2012
#
Seating is limited; seats may not be available on all trains at all times.
#
Up to two children ages 2 - 15 may accompany each adult at half the discounted adult rail fare.
#
Valid for travel on the following services: Adirondack, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express and Maple Leaf.
#
Valid for travel to/from all cities within the state of New York, also includes travel to Montreal and St. Lambert, Canada. Travel is prohibited between Montreal and St. Lambert, Canada.
#
Valid for Coach seats. Upgrade to Business class is available upon full payment of applicable accommodation charges.
#
Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice.
#
Not combinable with any other discount offer.
#
Subject to any restrictions, blackouts and refund rules that apply to the type of fare purchased and upon which the discount is based.
#
Other restrictions may apply.


This is the first relevant post

Short life but;

Book through this link
http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544876052

* Valid for sale December 14, 2011 - January 28, 2012.
* Valid for travel January 1 - 31, 2012.
* Advance reservations are required a minimum of three (3) days prior to travel.
* Valid for a special $10 one-way rail fare on the following Downeaster trains only: 681, 682, 683, 684, 687, 688, 689, 690, 691, 693, 694, 697, 698 and 699.
* Valid for travel between all city pairs with the current fare of $10 or more.
* The $10 fare is valid for all passengers; no additional discounts allowed.
* Valid for coach seats only.
* Seating is limited; seats may not be available on all trains at all times.
* Not combinable with any other discount offer.
* In addition to the discount restrictions, this offer is also subject to any restrictions, blackouts and refund rules that apply to the type of fare purchased.
* Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice.
* Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted.
* Other restrictions may apply.

Book through this link
http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544987369


# Valid for sale December 1, 2011 - April 29, 2012.
# Valid for travel January 1 - April 30, 2012.
# Blackout dates:
- January 2, 2012
- February 17 and 20, 2012
- April 5-6 and 9, 2012
# Advance reservations are required a minimum of one (1) day prior to travel.
# Seating is limited, seats may not be available on all trains at all times.
# Up to 2 children ages 2 - 15 may accompany each adult at half the regular (full) adult rail fare.
# Valid for travel on the following services: Blue Water, Pere Marquette, and Wolverine.
# Valid for coach seats.
# Upgrade to Business Class is available upon full payment of applicable accommodation charges.
# Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice.
# Not combinable with any other discount offer.
# In addition to the discount restrictions, this offer is also subject to any restrictions, blackouts and refund rules that apply to the type of fare purchased.
# Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted.
# Other restrictions may apply

Amtrak Cascades is currently offering buy one get one free along the corridor from Vancouver BC / Seattle / Portland OR / Eugene OR if you present a paper coupon for this deal.

Coupons are free, and can be picked up at PCC Natural Market grocery stores.

Valid for travel through April 30, 2012. More info in this Seattle Times article.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/travel/2016333192_webamtrak27.html and this Redmond Reporter article http://www.redmond-reporter.com/business/131997288.html

I just used one for a BEL-MVW trip, handy dandy buy one get one free!

A new promo (https://www.amtrakguestrewards.com/promo/winteracela12):
Take three roundtrips on Acela® from January 4 through February 29, 2012. When you do, you'll get one free roundtrip for travel from July 4 through August 30, 2012 to enjoy any way you'd like.

T&C: Must be an Amtrak Guest Rewards member and register for this offer to participate. Register online at AmtrakGuestRewards.com/Take3. To qualify, three Acela roundtrips or six one-way trips must be taken between 1/4/12 through 2/29/12. Minimum spend of $90 per qualifying one-way trip required. Limit of two qualifying trips per day (one roundtrip or two one-ways). Members must include their membership number when making reservations. Cancelled or refunded reservations/tickets will be deemed ineligible. Free trips are valid for Acela Business class travel 7/4/12 through 8/30/12 and are subject to Acela award travel time-of day restrictions on weekdays. No printed voucher will be mailed. A maximum of two rountrips may be earned.


Gary Leff is reporting on his blog (http://boardingarea.com/blogs/viewfromthewing/2012/01/04/amtrak-northeast-offer-free-summer-roundtrips-for-2-3-roundtrips-in-winter/) that this also provides for earning a free NE Regional trip for every two RTs. [EDIT: I see that AGR Insider has confirmed (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/amtrak-guest-rewards/1298035-great-escape-2012-agr-winter-promotion-starts-jan-4-a.html) this B2G1 for NE Regionals.]

The Winter Sale for 20% off long distance routes begins tomorrow. The discount is automatically applied so there's no code or link needed.
Valid for sale January 5 - 23, 2012.
Valid for travel January 17 - March 29, 2012.
Blackout dates: February 17 and 20, 2012.
Advance ticket purchase is required a minimum of three days prior to travel.
Valid on the following trains only: Silver Star, Silver Meteor, Palmetto, Crescent, Cardinal, Capitol Limited, Lake Shore Limited, Sunset Limited, Texas Eagle, Southwest Chief, California Zephyr, Empire Builder, City of New Orleans, Coast Starlight and Auto Train.

Also, all the Northeast Regional promos are back (through Dec. 2012) at: http://www.railserve.com/amtrak_coupons.html
Of course the advance purchase discount is still better whenever you can book at least 14 days out.

Just bumping this topic a bit as there have been 8 updates to the list today, including the items mentioned by both johncm & beltway.

I found this promotion and used it last weekend:

Buy One, Get One on Amtrak (http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248544498979&WT.mc_t=WeekendSherpa_EXT&WT.mc_n=WeekendSherpaPromoPage&WT.mc_r=365)

"Looking to make an escape for the weekend? Amtrak has a great offer for you to get moving and bring someone else along for an adventure. Purchase one regular adult fare before January 31, 2012, and get one free companion fare for the Capitol Corridor, San Joaquin, and Pacific Surfliner routes."

At least for my little jaunt on the Capitol Corridor, along with half-price child fare, it made a very enjoyable weekend trip affordable too.

I need codes for travel n cresent. we are having a hard time finding codes for deaprting atl, ga and arriving at washington. union station. need 2 adults. 2 children tix. for march 31-april 7,
any help is apprcaited for reducing costs

Not sure how good this promo is considering the 25% advance purchase rate, but I found this one today.
-------
30% off companion fare for Travel to RI
Must start at www.amtrak.com/visitri to book.

Valid for one 30% off companion rail fare with the purchase of one regular (full) adult rail fare.
Offer available exclusively at Amtrak.com via GoProvidence.com.
Valid for sale December 29, 2011 - December 16, 2012.
Valid for travel January 4 - December 19, 2012.
Blackout dates:
- February 17 and 20, 2012
- April 5 - 6 and 9, 2012
- May 25, 2012
- August 31, 2012
- September 3, 2012
- October 5, 2012
- November 20 - 21 and 24 - 26, 2012
Valid for travel on the Northeast Regional to/from Providence (PVD), Kingston (KIN) and Westerly (WLY), Rhode Island.
Reservations are required a minimum of three days prior to travel.
Companion and full fare paying passenger must travel together at all times.
Companion is subject to the same restrictions and conditions as the full fare paying passenger.
Seating is limited; seats may not be available on all trains at all times.
Valid for coach seats only; no upgrades permitted.
Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice.
Not combinable with any other discount offer.
In addition to the discount restrictions, this offer is also subject to any restrictions, blackouts and refund rules that apply to the type of fare purchased.
Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted.
Other restrictions may apply.

I need codes for travel n cresent. we are having a hard time finding codes for deaprting atl, ga and arriving at washington. union station. need 2 adults. 2 children tix. for march 31-april 7,
any help is apprcaited for reducing costs

Book your trip today do not wait for a code. Amtrak fares are 100% refundable PROVIDED;

A) You do not print the ticket
B) You use only the AAA, senior, NARP etc discounts

The only thing waiting does is increase you base rate. As seats sell out the price goes up in what is referred to as a bucket system. That is why you see the big difference between eastbound and westbound segments. Waiting before booking may negate any discount you receive for the trip.

In addition it usually makes the fares non-refundable.


So book now then look for a discount fare and compare

OK. Thanks for the reply. I will go ahead and purchase and hope i can get a discount. i will choose option topick up tickets at the station.

Three great cities. Three days to save.
Hurry, this deal won’t last long. Book your Amtrak® tickets online now through February 2, 2012 for travel March 13 through April 4, 2012 on the Northeast RegionalSM, and you’ll get our lowest one-way fares.

Travel between:
• Washington, DC and New York, NY for $40
• Baltimore, MD and New York, NY for $36

LINK
http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=Yes&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248543467861&WT.mc_t=NER3DayJan2012ButtonLP_EMTR&WT.mc_n=NER3DayTraditionalPromoPage&WT.mc_r=365

Terms and conditions:
This offer is exclusively available at Amtrak.com. This offer is valid for sale between January 31 - February 2, 2012 and valid for travel between March 13 - April 4, 2012. This offer is valid for travel on the Northeast Regional only. This special offer is valid for travel between Washington, DC or Baltimore, MD to New York, NY only. Seating is limited; seats may not be available on all trains at all times. Once ticketed fares are non- refundable; exchanges are permitted prior to the original travel date. The discounted fares are valid for all adult passengers; no additional discounts apply. Up to 2 children ages 2 - 15 may accompany each adult at half the regular full adult rail fare. This offer is valid for coach seats only; no business class upgrades permitted. This offer is not combinable with any other discount offer. In addition to the discount restrictions this offer is also subject to any restrictions, blackouts and refund rules that apply to the type of fare purchased. Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Once travel has begun; no changes to the itinerary are permitted. Other restrictions may apply.

Train to Maine - Buy One, Get One Free!

Escape to beautiful Maine for a day or a weekend of quiet, relaxation, and charm. Or a day at the beach! Buy one adult full-fare ticket, get the second FREE.

Offer is valid on trains 681, 683, 686, 688, 691, 693, 696, and 698 ONLY

Reference promotion code: V353

Available through the month of December 2012.


link:
http://www.amtrakdowneaster.com/specials-promotions/train-maine-buy-one-get-one-free


Full fare only, business upgrade not available with BOGO.

I'm thinking of taking my 87 Porsche up to the big PCA swap meet at Hershey, PA in April, and was doing a quick price check on the Amtrak website. I was just wondering if there is a promo code for it yet this year. Any help is appreciated.

Deleted, sorry.

Book today through April 22, 2012 and get 15% off train travel to Seattle, WA between February 9 and April 29, 2012. The promo code appears to be V379, though it is not required if you book through the link below.

Note that if you add business class, it disqualifies you from the discount. :mad: The code does work in both directions, but it appears it will only price on trains with the D fare available ($31 between SEA and PDX).

Valid for 15% off the regular (full) adult rail fare.
This offer is exclusively available at Amtrak.com, AmtrakCascades.com or via the link provided at SeattleArtMuseum.org.
Blackouts dates:
- February 17 and 20, 2012
- April 5 - 6 and 9, 2012
Advance reservations are required a minimum of three (3) days prior to travel.
Valid for travel on the following trains: Empire Builder (cities in Montana, Idaho, and Washington only), Amtrak Cascades, and Coast Starlight.
Valid for travel to Seattle, Washington and return only.
Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted.

http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1249929926120

As early as it is for booking 2013 train travel, is there any way to get the 2013 Amtrak cruise discount codes to book for next April and next August (2013) as soon as those tickets open up in the coming months?

Amtrak Cascades is currently offering buy one get one free along the corridor from Vancouver BC / Seattle / Portland OR / Eugene OR if you present a paper coupon for this deal.

Coupons are free, and can be picked up at PCC Natural Market grocery stores.

Valid for travel through April 30, 2012. More info in this Seattle Times article.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/travel/2016333192_webamtrak27.html and this Redmond Reporter article http://www.redmond-reporter.com/business/131997288.html



Anyone know if the PCC stores still have this coupon available? Colleague and I are planning to take Amtrak from Seattle to Vancouver, BC in April. If they are I'll ask a friend or a Flyertalker to pick one up for me. Or, if anyone knows of any other specials on this route, please post (just tried the discount in post #21, and it works from Seattle also). Thanks!

i am looking for discounts on the auto train. i am leaving nov.16th and coming back on the 23rd. any ideas???

Book your trip today do not wait for a code. Amtrak fares are 100% refundable PROVIDED;

A) You do not print the ticket
B) You use only the AAA, senior, NARP etc discounts

The only thing waiting does is increase you base rate. As seats sell out the price goes up in what is referred to as a bucket system. That is why you see the big difference between eastbound and westbound segments. Waiting before booking may negate any discount you receive for the trip.

In addition it usually makes the fares non-refundable.


So book now then look for a discount fare and compare
HI. Looking at a trip to BBY, the fare quotes 147 for 2 adults and 2 kids, but applying AAA rate increases fare to 186. Is the 147 "regular" fare not cancellable?

HI. Looking at a trip to BBY, the fare quotes 147 for 2 adults and 2 kids, but applying AAA rate increases fare to 186. Is the 147 "regular" fare not cancellable?

It is refundable as long as you have not ticketed your reservation (read: printed out your tickets). Once you have ticketed your reservation, you may only exchange for an Amtrak voucher (albeit at 100% of the face value, so no loss).

It is refundable as long as you have not ticketed your reservation (read: printed out your tickets). Once you have ticketed your reservation, you may only exchange for an Amtrak voucher (albeit at 100% of the face value, so no loss).

The AA fare is refundable but higher. The cheaper fare says non refundable after purchase, not ticketing. Do you still believe that the cheaper, non -AAA fare would be refunded if I cancelled later? See below:



Terms & Conditions



14 day advanced purchase required.
Not combinable with any membership or promotional discounts.
Changes permitted but constitute new travel and require the same advance purchase requirement.
Non-refundable after ticket has been purchased.
Exchanges permitted for other rail fare purchases.
Non-upgradeable. Fare is valid for class of service listed only.

Seating is limited; seats may not be available on all trains at all times.
In addition to the discount restrictions (if any), this offer is also subject to any restrictions, blackouts and refund rules that apply to the type of fare purchased.
Fares are not guaranteed until we provide you with a reservation confirmation.
Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice.
Two carry-on bags, up to 50 lb and 28” x 22” x 14” each, are allowed per passenger. See Baggage Policy.
Refund restrictions may apply. Special conditions apply for cancellation and refunds of sleeping accommodation bookings. See Refund Policy.
Passengers 2 to 15 years of age must travel with an adult passenger who is at least 18 years old. See Child Passenger Type.
Duplicate and impossible bookings are prohibited without prior authorization from Amtrak.
Travel products such as hotels, car rentals, activities and travel insurance will be charged separately by our travel partner(s), and you will receive separate confirmation e-mails detailing those charges.
Other restrictions may apply.

The AA fare is refundable but higher. The cheaper fare says non refundable after purchase, not ticketing. Do you still believe that the cheaper, non -AAA fare would be refunded if I cancelled later? See below:
...
Non-refundable after ticket has been purchased.

When you make your reservation on Amtrak.com, you are purchasing a reservation, not a ticket.

Your ticket is not issued until you print your ticket out at a Quik-Trak kiosk or from a station agent; thus, you are not technically purchasing your ticket until your ticket is issued.

I'm fairly sure I have canceled NER 14-day APEX discount tickets with no penalty recently. (I book and change and cancel a lot of tickets, though, mostly on the Keystone Corridor, but I am not 100% sure if I've done the same on the NER.)

Does anyone based in SoCal know of any Amtrak promotions related to the Surfliner from San Diego to the Angels game (Anaheim)? Ive seen an LA to Anaheim promotion (which is hilarious given the team is THE Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

I haven't seen any specific Amtrak/Angels promotions, and the train service the Angels themselves have recently been promoting is the Metrolink Angels Express (http://www.metrolinktrains.com/news/promotions_detail/title/Angels_Express_Train), although it only runs for weeknight games and only as far south as the Mission Viejo/Laguna Niguel station. (The Metrolink trains are easier to promote to the "casual" train rider/baseball fan because they're scheduled specifically around the start and finish times of the games, unlike the Surfliners.)

When you make your reservation on Amtrak.com, you are purchasing a reservation, not a ticket.

Your ticket is not issued until you print your ticket out at a Quik-Trak kiosk or from a station agent; thus, you are not technically purchasing your ticket until your ticket is issued.

I'm fairly sure I have canceled NER 14-day APEX discount tickets with no penalty recently. (I book and change and cancel a lot of tickets, though, mostly on the Keystone Corridor, but I am not 100% sure if I've done the same on the NER.)

I booked our tix by phone; the agent took no responsibility for web bookings but stated clearly that as you said, the CC payment I left is refundable even after the day of departure.

One other Q: I have a trip from NY to BOS and wonder if I booked BBY as final dest. and want to stay on for one more stop (to BOS), is it ok? The fare is the same and it is the same train, just won't know til last minute which stop I will need.

Thx

I booked our tix by phone; the agent took no responsibility for web bookings but stated clearly that as you said, the CC payment I left is refundable even after the day of departure.

Same thing. When you book a reservation online or via phone, you're just booking a reservation.

FWIW, a bit of an unrelated but interesting tidbit I discovered: Amtrak ticket agents (in person) cannot book non-ticketed reservations. If you talk to an agent in-person, they will actually ticket you right then and there. They (at least the one I tried to do this with) don't have the ability to create a non-ticketed reservation.

One other Q: I have a trip from NY to BOS and wonder if I booked BBY as final dest. and want to stay on for one more stop (to BOS), is it ok? The fare is the same and it is the same train, just won't know til last minute which stop I will need.

Thx

Most conductors will likely let you stay on, but it's best to do the reverse: book to BOS and get off at BBY. A super-strict conductor might not let you stay on past BBY if that's where you're booked. Conversely, no conductor will prevent you from getting off at BBY even if you're booked to BOS.

Same thing. When you book a reservation online or via phone, you're just booking a reservation.

FWIW, a bit of an unrelated but interesting tidbit I discovered: Amtrak ticket agents (in person) cannot book non-ticketed reservations. If you talk to an agent in-person, they will actually ticket you right then and there. They (at least the one I tried to do this with) don't have the ability to create a non-ticketed reservation.



Most conductors will likely let you stay on, but it's best to do the reverse: book to BOS and get off at BBY. A super-strict conductor might not let you stay on past BBY if that's where you're booked. Conversely, no conductor will prevent you from getting off at BBY even if you're booked to BOS.

Understand the principle. I would be surprised if they said no to 1 more stop 5 min away, but why tempt fate....or why not :D

No conductor would ever even have time to force one to get off at Back Bay simply because their ticket read Back Bay. And since the fare is the same for either BBY or BOS, no conductor will ever care which stop one gets off. Even Route 128 is the same fare.

The last place that a conductor would check on things and force one to pay extra is Providence. Failing to get off there when your ticket reads Providence could cause a problem.

No conductor would ever even have time to force one to get off at Back Bay simply because their ticket read Back Bay. And since the fare is the same for either BBY or BOS, no conductor will ever care which stop one gets off. Even Route 128 is the same fare.

The last place that a conductor would check on things and force one to pay extra is Providence. Failing to get off there when your ticket reads Providence could cause a problem.

The point is valid that they wouldn't have time. And in any case, by the time the conductor noticed your ticket was for BBY, the next stop at which he could force you off the train is, of course, BOS. (And no conductor would summon Amtrak police for fare evasion of one stop, especially when it isn't fare evasion, since the fares are the same.)

If you've already booked the ticket, I wouldn't bother changing it. But if you haven't booked it yet, might as well book it to BOS--no reason not to.

The point is valid that they wouldn't have time. And in any case, by the time the conductor noticed your ticket was for BBY, the next stop at which he could force you off the train is, of course, BOS. (And no conductor would summon Amtrak police for fare evasion of one stop, especially when it isn't fare evasion, since the fares are the same.)

If you've already booked the ticket, I wouldn't bother changing it. But if you haven't booked it yet, might as well book it to BOS--no reason not to.

Thanks Jackal, will stick with what we've got.

Travel: Oct 1-31
Book by: July 31
Blackout: Oct 5

T/C's: http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?ff=No&c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am%2FLayout&p=1237405732514&cid=1248543314245&WT.mc_t=SmartseatsJuly_HP1_A_WSP&WT.mc_n=SmartseatsJulyLanding%20page&WT.mc_r=365&tiid=46248&audienceId=0&rtTracking=1

Thanks Jackal, will stick with what we've got.

As everyone pointed out, the tickets were cancellable until we printed them out. No issues on the trip, and conductor did not care that we went one add'l stop 10 min down the way.

Nice, easy trip but boy was PENN station a zoo. What a last-minute scramble with POOR boarding.

In any case, it was good to book very early given that the ticket prices went up closer to departure and they were refundable.

So even if you are just THINKING about a train trip, book the refundable tickets and just set a reminder to cancel by travel date in case you don't use the tickets. No brainer.

On Capitol Corridor:
50% off weekends (including buses that are designated for the Capitols, you could ride from Emeryville to Los Angeles for $28)
http://www.amtrak.com/50-off-weekend-travel-capitol-corridor-train

Hello I am having a situation here and would love some real good promo codes and discounts if anyone knows of some real good ones!...I am currently in San Antonio, TX and I want to go to Flint, Mi...I NEED YOUR HELP COMMUNITY..thx u.. :-)

I recently became an AAA member and have been attempting to use the code with scattered success on amtrak.com

I'm mainly buying keystone route tix, and usually 2 weeks out.

The problems I've been having are sometimes when i go to apply the discount, the ticket changes all together (origin/destination change, date change, etc). Othertimes, it prices correctly only to book at full value at the end.

Anyone else having these issues?

Traveling from PGH (Pittsburgh, PA) to (SPG) Springfield, MA on 10/25/12 and returning 10/29/12. No luck finding promo codes. Any suggestions?

Route currently:
Thursday, October 25, 2012
42 Pennsylvanian (PGH - PHL)
94 Northeast Regional (PHL - NHV)
494 Shuttle (NHV - SPG)

Monday, October 29, 2012
141 Northeast Regional (SPG - NYP)
43 Pennsylvanian (NYP - PGH)