With the growing cost of airfare and the fee’s they charge for baggage you might be better off using the train for your holiday travel plans. Amtrak is much less popular with people, unlike in Europe where taking the train is the common way to get around. Because of this lack of the rack of riders you can often find deals taking the train. While not as fast as taking a plane, if you’ve got a large family you might be able to save yourself a considerable amount of money taking the train. Below you will find the best deals currently going on, as well the student, senior and active military discounts which are always going on.
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.
2009 Blackout Dates: November 24-25; November 28-30
2010 Blackout Dates: January 2-3; February 12, 15
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.
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.
Veteran’s Advantage – 15% off Unlike Student Advantage, you really do have to be a veteran for this one.
AAA – 10% off
American Automobile Association members save 10% off adult rail fares. Three day advance reservations are 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/
91409 – Fall Double Points
Travel between September 14, 2009 and December 19, 2009 and earn double Guest Rewards points on all tickets. Registration is required.
25% Off – Save on Northeast Regional travel
Through December 16, Northeast Regional service is discounted up to 25% off regular fares for tickets purchased 14 days in advance. No discount code is required. Must select the Adult ticket type with no promotion code to receive the discounted fare when booking.
V221 – 20% off to/from Massachusetts
Take 20% off the best available adult railfare traveling on Northeast Regional, Downeaster and Lake Shore Limited trains. valid for sale January 2 through December 12, 2009 and for travel through December 15, 2009. Advance purchase and blackout dates apply. Tickets must be purchased by telephone. Travel on Lake Shore Limited only valid between Albany, NY and Boston, MA.
Save 10% on the Empire Builder
Book a room at the Glacier Park Lodge and receive 10% off the Empire Builder railfare when booked together through the Glacier Park reservation line. Special will end without notice and will no longer be available once the web page is pulled. Thanks Rad456!
