Can you bring unopened alcohol on a train?

There are no restrictions regarding bring private stock alcohol onto the train in your baggage.



In the United States, Amtrak allows passengers to bring their own unopened alcohol on board, but with strict rules:

  1. It can only be consumed in private sleeping car accommodations (by the occupants of that room).
  2. It is prohibited to consume personal alcohol in public areas of the train, including coach seats, lounges, or dining cars.
  3. You must be of legal drinking age (21+).

Important: If you are found consuming your own alcohol outside of a private room, you may be asked to dispose of it, and you could face removal from the train.

For other rail services (commuter/regional trains): Generally prohibited. Most local commuter rails (like Metra, MTA, SEPTA, etc.) have policies that forbid any consumption of alcohol on board, and often prohibit carrying open containers. Unopened containers may be allowed as baggage, but you must check the specific carrier’s rules.

Key Advice: Always check Amtrak’s current alcohol policy before you travel, as rules can change. Never consume your own alcohol in coach or public areas. For commuter trains, assume it’s not allowed unless their website explicitly states otherwise.

In summary: Yes, you can typically bring unopened alcohol on an Amtrak train, but you can only legally drink it if you have a private sleeping car room. On most local commuter trains, it’s best not to bring any alcohol at all.

People Also Ask

You may bring aboard your own private stock of alcoholic beverages subject to the following limitations: You may consume private stock alcoholic beverages only in Sleeping Car accommodations for which you have a valid ticket. You may not consume private stock alcoholic beverages in any public areas.

MORE DETAILS

There are no restrictions regarding bring private stock alcohol onto the train in your baggage.

MORE DETAILS

Checked baggage service is available at a number of our stations and on many trains and Thruway Services. Not all trains or locations are equipped to handle checked baggage. Before you travel, make sure to check and see if your train and origin and destination stations accept checked baggage.

MORE DETAILS

The following items are prohibited onboard the train: non-service animals, firearms and ammunition, hover boards, corrosive or dangerous chemicals and materials, incendiaries, martial arts and self-defense items, archery equipment, devices containing propellants, sharp objects, and similar items.

MORE DETAILS

They do random bag checks sometimes, but they don't make everything go through security like at the airport.

MORE DETAILS

A small cooler counts as a carry-on bag, and you can bring snacks, meals, take out food from nearby restaurants and even alcohol on Amtrak (note that to consume alcohol, you must be in a roomette or bedroom).

MORE DETAILS

Flexible dining A wide selection of wine, beer, and spirits (the first one is on us), plus unlimited soft drinks throughout the journey. Complimentary room service provided by the Sleeping Car attendant. Exclusive onboard lounge space for Sleeping Car customers to dine and socialize 24/7.

MORE DETAILS

What kind of security do you go through on Amtrak? None! The train stops, you get on, and you go! They have the option of asking for ID, but rarely do.

MORE DETAILS

If you travel by Amtrak or another public carrier, you should know that officers could come aboard and ask for a search of your belongings. You are generally under no obligation to allow this.

MORE DETAILS

Arriving at the Station Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).

MORE DETAILS

Why isn't there TSA security for train travel? There is sometimes, TSA does random TSA level Security from time to time on AMTRAK stations. But you really can not HiJack a train, and take it somewhere, you could disable the driver and ram the train into the station at the end of a platform.

MORE DETAILS

Warm Layer or Blanket Many riders have had uncomfortable rail journeys due to being cold on the trains, even in summer. Be sure to pack a sweatshirt, fleece jacket, sweater or small blanket. Some people recommend a hooded sweatshirt as it can also provide some privacy and padding if you're trying to sleep in coach.

MORE DETAILS

Storing Items Carry-on and personal items must be kept with you, stored in overhead racks, under seats or designated baggage areas. Most buses have baggage storage bins under the bus floor, and the bus driver will assist you.

MORE DETAILS

You should check with your airline first, but most domestic airlines permit a carry-on piece of luggage that is 45 linear (total) inches. A common sized bag for carry-on luggage is 22x 14x 9. Most airlines have a carry-on weight limit of 40 pounds.

MORE DETAILS

thank you for reaching out to us. Sharp objects, including but not limited to axes, ice picks, knives, spears, and swords, are not allowed in carry-on baggage. For more information, please visit our website at amtrak.com/onboard/baggag….

MORE DETAILS

Bringing alcohol in your carry-on bags is allowed, but you'll still need to follow the TSA's rules for carrying liquids on planes. That means the alcohol needs to be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and packed in a quart-sized clear plastic bag. Each passenger is only allowed 1 plastic bag.

MORE DETAILS

To ensure you stay connected while traveling, we offer free basic WiFi service in select trains and stations throughout the country. Stay productive, or simply sit back and have some fun while en route to your destination.

MORE DETAILS