If possible, try to secure the bag with a lock or cable tie so that it cannot easily be taken away from you. Additionally, if there is space available for storage above or below the seat, use it!
RANDOM PASSENGER AND BAGGAGE SCREENINGWith due respect to passengers' privacy, the random and unannounced screening and inspection of passengers and their personal items is completed as quickly as possible - usually in less than a minute.
Amtrak does operate its own police force (with true law enforcement officer powers, unlike airport TSA), but they are more interested in handling actual crimes than wasting time playing security theater at hundreds of stations spread across extremely rural portions of the country.
Storing ItemsPersonal items such as a small bag or backpack must fit under the seat. Carry-on bags must be kept with you, and need to fit in the overhead racks or luggage tower. Most buses have baggage storage bins under the bus floor, and the bus driver will assist you.
Typically, a 23kg suitcase size will have the following measurements: Length: 71-81 cm (28-32 inches )Width: 43-51 cm (17-20 inches)Depth: 26-30 cm (10-12 inches)
You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars. Personal food and beverages are allowed in the upper level of Superliner Sightseer Lounges.
Roomette. For customers seeking both privacy and savings in First Class, Roomettes feature two comfortable seats by day transformed to upper and lower beds by night. Each room includes a big picture window, newly upgraded bedding, pillows, towels and linens and access to a restroom and shower in your car.
Arriving at the StationPlan 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).
It means they are not going to stow your luggage for you. Whatever you have, you take it on the train and find a secure place for it in the overhead bins or under your seat. You will be fine with a carry on and a suitcase each.
Purchasing Tickets OnboardIn those limited circumstances when you are permitted to purchase your tickets onboard, you may pay with cash. Customers boarding at unstaffed stations can buy tickets with their credit card on Amtrak.com or on the Amtrak app prior to boarding.
Train travel is much simpler, as there is no TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR equivalent for Amtrak. Amtrak trains offer private rooms, more legroom, more space from your fellow passengers, more comfortable seats, and more food & beverage options.
On shorter train journeys, Amtrak's Coach Class seats provide a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the view. On long-distance journeys, you will find extra-spacious Coach Class seating with leg rests designed to enhance your comfort for long or overnight trips.
Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation. You may change your assigned seat at any time after your booking is complete using interactive seat maps on the Amtrak app or on Amtrak.com. There is no fee to change your seat.
Why isn't there TSA security for train travel? Amtrak has own service, which makes the security check on the big stations, but it isn't the precise check like on the airport.
If you happen to lose or misplace something on the train or in a station, submit a lost item report so we can try to help you find it. When reporting a lost item, have the following information ready: Your date(s) of travel. Your departure and arrival stations.