Today when I booked our 2 bedrooms on the California Zephyr (westbound) the agent informed me that if we are taking the thruway bus from Emeryville to the SF finanicial district that we won't be able to check any luggage because there won't be enough time to retrieve it before the bus leaves.

Does anyone have any suggestions? There are 4 adults and and 1-year-old so arranging alternative transport into SF could get costly, and I'd rather use the service that's included with amtrak if possible.

Amtrak's carryon luggage allowance sounds fairly generous and I think we could manage that but should I be concerned that there won't be enough room for the bigger stuff in the sleeper car's downstairs luggage area? We are talking about a small-medium sized suitcase for each person and a stroller (smaller personal items will go in our rooms). I'd hate to have to put all that stuff in the bedrooms if there isn't room for it downstairs.

First time taking the train (very excited) so I would love to hear from some experts.