What is a transfer on Amtrak?

A "Transfer" trip means that there will be 1 or more transfers at some point in your journey where you will need to change bus/train or plane to another bus/train or plane during a layover of anywhere from a few minutes to multiple hours.



On Amtrak, a "transfer" most commonly refers to the guaranteed connection between two different train services or an Amtrak-operated bus (Thruway bus) to complete a journey. When you book a trip that requires a transfer, Amtrak typically builds in a "protected" window of time, meaning if your first train is delayed, the company is responsible for rebooking you or providing alternate transport. Beyond the rails, "Amtrak Vacations" uses the term for shuttle services between the station, your hotel, or a cruise port. For 2026 travelers, it is a high-value "pro-tip" to note that while city-to-hotel transfers aren't always included in basic tickets, they are standard in "Rail & Sail" packages. Always verify if your arrival station offers "Red Cap" assistance, which acts as a premier "human transfer" service to help you move heavy luggage between platforms, ensuring a frictionless transition during complex multi-segment itineraries across the U.S. rail network.

People Also Ask

Traveling by train means you can usually bring more baggage for less money. In the U.S., Amtrak allows each traveler to bring two personal items, two carry-on items and two checked bags — all included in your fare.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Meals are included when traveling in a private room. Our onboard dining services provide a menu with a wide variety of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Sleeping accommodations on board Amtrak are considered Sleeper Service, which means passengers are entitled to a range of hotel-like amenities. These include fresh linens and towels, a hot shower, complimentary bottled water ice, soft drinks, and hot coffee.

MORE DETAILS

We've added free onboard WiFi to a lot of our trains and stations! You can check if your favorite train or nearest station has WiFi here. If you're reading this while on one of our trains, wait before setting off to do your surfing.

MORE DETAILS

Generally, short trips cost less by train, but it's more economical to fly for long journeys.

MORE DETAILS

The train whistle, or horn, is an important part of our safety practices. The horn alerts people that a train is approaching a railroad crossing. It can also be used to warn animals or trespassers in our right-of-way along a section of track.

MORE DETAILS

We often get the question “Is Amtrak safe for single woman”, the short answer is yes. You are in a train car full of people. One of the great things about Amtrak is the space. On airplanes the seats are so close together that it's hard to avoid touching your seat mates.

MORE DETAILS