Amtrak Baggage Policy – What You Can Bring On Board
If you plan to travel with Amtrak, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the baggage policy to avoid unnecessary fees and complications during your trip. Whether you are bringing a small carry-on or checked luggage on a longer trip. Amtrak’s baggage policy is designed carefully to accommodate passengers’ needs and offers flexible options. This guide provides all the essential baggage details to help passengers pack appropriately and travel stress-free on their Amtrak journey.
A Brief Overview of Amtrak Baggage Guidelines
Amtrak allows passengers to carry all the essentials they require, including both carry-on and checked baggage. To know more, this guideline provides all the key rules as well as special equipment allowance. Amtrak aims to deliver a comfortable travel experience.
Carry-On
Passengers can carry up to 2 carry-on bags with them, with a weight limit of 50 lbs per item and a maximum size of 28 x 22 x 14 inches. Additionally, they can carry one personal item such as a purse or a backpack.
Checked Luggage
This policy is available on some long-haul routes in which passengers are allowed to carry 2 checked bags for free. The weight of each bag must be 50 lbs, and the size should be 75 inches.
Oversized/Excess Baggage
Bags between 76-100 inches incur an extra fee. And baggage over 100 inches is not allowed. But with an additional fee, you can carry extra baggage with you.
Special Equipment
- Bicycle: Passengers can even travel with their bicycles, but they must be stored in their box and come as checked baggage. If you have foldable bikes, then they can be counted as carry-on luggage, but they must be under the limits.
- Musical Instruments: Passengers can carry their small musical instruments as a carry-on if the instruments meet the size limit. The big instruments may need to be checked in advance and could require special handling.
- Sports Gear: Items such as skis, snowboards, and a golf club can require special handling and can be checked in with special packaging.
Travelling with a Pet
If you are looking to travel with your pet. Then, Amtrak allows your small pet to travel along with you for a small fee. The pet must be under 20Lbs and should be carried in a leak-proof, ventilated carrier, as it must stay in that carrier for the entire journey.
Lost or Delayed Baggage
If your luggage is lost or delayed, you must contact the Amtrak staff immediately and file a report by contacting customer service.
Assistance for Baggage
Special baggage assistance is available for passengers travelling with any medical condition or who have any mobility limitations. The request must be made at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure.
Amtrak Carry-on Baggage Policy
Amtrak offers a flexible carry-on baggage policy to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Here are all the important details on Amtrak’s carry-on baggage policy.
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimension | The carry-on baggage must be under 28 × 22 × 14 inches (71 × 56 × 36 cm) |
| Weight limit | Each of the carry-on bags must not exceed 50 lbs (23 kg) |
| Typical item | Such as backpacks, suitcases, and duffle bags. |
| Excess bags | 2 bags $20 each |
Passengers can carry up to two carry-on bags for free of charge, but each bag must meet the size and weight limit. Moreover, if the baggage is beyond the allowance, then $20 will be charged for each baggage. Follow this guidance before boarding to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Amtrak Checked Baggage Policy
Amtrak provides checked baggage service on many long-distance routes, allowing passengers to travel comfortably with the large items securely stored in the train’s baggage car. However, there are some limits and guidelines to ensure smooth travel.
| Category | Allowance |
|---|---|
| Free Bags | 2 bags free |
| Additional Bags | Up to 2 bags, $20 each |
| Weight Limit per Bag | Max 50 lbs (22.7 kg) |
| Size Limit per Bag | Max 75 linear inches (L+W+H) |
| Oversized Bags (76–100″) | $20 fee per bag |
| Check-in Time | At least 45 minutes before departure |
Passengers can check up to two carry-on bags for free of Each bag must meet the size and weight requirements to ensure safe and smooth handling. Additionally, baggage exceeding the limit will be charged a fee to ensure a stress-free travel. Arrive at the station at least 45 minutes before for a comfortable experience.
Amtrak’s Lost and Delayed Baggage Policy
If your baggage goes missing during your Amtrak journey, you must act quickly and inform the Amtrak staff and file a report. Understand these key steps and ensure the best chance of recovery or compensation.
- Report It Immediately: If your checked baggage got lost or misplaced upon arrival, immediately inform the staff and call customer service to file a report. You can also file the report online on the Amtrak report lost item page.
- Claim process: After submitting the report, you will receive a tracking ID, which gives you updates on your lost item through email or text. Amtrak continues its search for almost 30 days from the report day; if the item is not found by then, it’s unlikely to be recovered.
- Refund and coverage: Amtrak offers limited compensation for lost and damaged checked baggage. The amount of the compensation can be received, depending on how your bag was checked or if there is any valuable item in it.
| Policy Area | Explanation |
|---|---|
| How to Report Lost Bags | Inform to Amtrak staff. If your bag is missing. Do this within 24 hours of arriving. |
| File a Claim | Give your baggage tag and describe the missing item. Contact customer support to report. |
| How Bags Are Tracked | Amtrak uses your baggage number from check-in to locate missing luggage |
| What If Bags Are Lost | If your bag can’t be found in time, then it’s unlikely to be recovered again. |
| When Bags Are Delayed | Amtrak works to return delayed bags quickly and may offer basics like clothes and other essentials. |
| If Bags Are Damaged | Report broken items to file a damage report with Amtrak. |
| Limits on Responsibility | Amtrak pays only up to a certain amount for lost/damaged items. Don’t pack valuables in checked bags. |
| Who to Contact | Call 1‑800‑USA‑RAIL or use Amtrak’s online form for help with lost or delayed items. |
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Baggage Policy
Amtrak has designed a specific baggage guideline for passengers traveling in the coastal Pacific region, making it easier and accessible for passengers to carry surfboards and wakeboards as carry-on items free of charge, reflecting the beachside communities it serves. The table below provides all essential information for Pacific Surfliner passengers.
| Baggage types | Details |
|---|---|
| Personal Items | 1 per passenger; max size 14″ x 11″ x 7″; max weight 25 lbs |
| Carry-On Bags | Up to 2 per passenger; max size 28″ x 22″ x 11″; max weight 50 lbs each |
| Checked Baggage | Generally not available; may be offered free during peak holiday travel |
| Excess Bags | $20 fee per additional bag |
| Surfboards/Wakeboards | Allowed as carry-on free of charge; must fit in overhead racks |
| Musical Instruments | Small instruments are allowed as carry-on; larger instruments may require an additional seat |
| Oversized Items | May require special handling and additional fees |
| Infant Items | Strollers and diaper bags do not count toward the carry-on allowance |
| Pet Travel | Small pets allowed in carriers for a fee; must stay in carrier throughout journey |
| Special Assistance | Available for passengers needing help with baggage; request at least 48 hours before travel |
Amtrak Guidelines for Traveling with Special Items
Amtrak allows its passengers to bring certain oversized special equipment, such as a bike or musical instruments, sports gear, but under some conditions. Here is a breakdown of the things you can carry.
- Bicycle: If you are carrying your bicycle on Amtrak, then a full-sized bike must be packed in a bike box and bag and carried as checked baggage. If you have a foldable bike, then it can be carried as carry-on, but the bike must be under the size limit. A short fee may be applicable for transporting your bike.
- Musical Instruments: Amtrak allows passengers to travel with their musical instruments. Small instruments can be carried as a carry-on, but they must fit the weight and size limit; large instruments such as cellos or keyboards need extra care and space. To carry these things, a fee may be applicable also advisable to inform Amtrak in advance to ensure better handling.
- Sports Equipment: Amtrak also allows gear such as skis, snowboards, surfboards, and golf clubs to be checked as baggage. These items must be properly packed in a secure, padded case to prevent damage during the journey. Because of their size, some equipment may require special handling or incur additional fees. It’s recommended to check specific route policies in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Assistance and Accessibility for Special Needs Passengers
Amtrak is committed to providing accessible travel for all passengers, including those with reduced mobility. To make the journey more convenient, Amtrak offers baggage assistance services at many stations to help passengers carry heavy luggage and equipment.
- Amtrak provides special baggage services to support passengers with mobility issues and aims to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience.
- Passengers who need assistance with baggage handling, loading, or unloading can request help when booking their ticket or by contacting Amtrak’s customer service in advance.
- It’s recommended that travelers request baggage assistance at least 48 hours before departure to ensure that accommodations can be arranged at the station.
- Amtrak staff can assist with lifting or transporting bags to the train especially at stations with full-service facilities.
- For passengers using mobility devices or who require additional support, Amtrak can coordinate the movement of carry-on or checked baggage, provided it meets the usual size and weight limits.
- If traveling with medical equipment or mobility aids, these do not count toward baggage limits and are carried free of charge.
Amtrak Baggage Services for Group Travel
If you are planning to travel in a group, Amtrak offers special services and baggage support to ensure group travel is smooth and well-organized. Whether you’re embarking on a school trip, tour, or business trip, it’s important to understand the baggage guidelines and coordination needed for groups.
- For groups of 20 or more passengers, Amtrak recommends contacting its Group Travel Desk in advance to coordinate both ticketing and baggage needs.
- Each passenger is allowed the standard baggage allowance of 2 carry-on bags and 1 personal item. Planning ensures enough storage space and staff support at stations, especially for larger groups.
- It’s strongly advised that all group members label their luggage clearly with names and contact details to avoid confusion during boarding and arrival.
- Amtrak staff may assist with loading and unloading group baggage at select stations with full baggage services.
- To avoid delays, groups should arrive at least 45 minutes before departure and communicate with Amtrak staff upon arrival.
Traveling with Oversized and Special Items
If you’re bringing large items like sports gear, musical instruments, or furniture, contact Amtrak in advance. Some of the Amtrak trains can not handle excess luggage and require advance notice and extra packaging. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth traveling experience.
- Contact Amtrak In Advance: If you’re planning on bringing large items such as sports gear, musical instruments, or furniture, it’s important to reach out to Amtrak before your trip. As some trains have limited space or specific rules for oversized baggage, it is advisable to communicate early, which ensures your item can be accommodated.
- Understand train limitations: Not every train is set up to handle big or bulky items. Depending on your route and the type of train, there may be restrictions on the size or weight of your luggage. Checking in advance will save you from unexpected hassles at the station.
- Use special packaging when needed: Larger or delicate items often require extra protection to prevent damage during transit. For example, surfboards or musical instruments may need padded cases or special wrapping. If you’re unsure how to prepare your item, Amtrak’s customer service team can offer helpful advice on proper packaging.
- Be aware of additional fees: Oversized or special items may come with extra charges to cover the added handling and storage space. Knowing about these fees beforehand allows you to budget accordingly and avoid surprises at the ticket counter.
- Plan for a smooth journey: Taking these steps early ensures your oversized baggage is handled safely and efficiently. Contacting Amtrak’s customer support and following their recommendations will help your trip go smoothly, letting you focus on enjoying your travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’re allowed two carry-on bags for free, as long as each weighs under 50 lbs and fits within 28 × 22 × 14 inches. Additionally, you can bring one personal item, like a purse and a backpack.
Yes, you can check up to two bags for free on many long routes. Each bag should weigh under 50 lbs and be within the size limits.
Bags between 76 and 100 inches will cost a $20 fee each. If your bag is larger than 100 inches, then it can’t be accepted. Oversized items often need special handling, so it’s best to inform Amtrak.
Yes, you can bring your bikes. By paying a small fee, you can carry Full-sized bikes need to be packed in a bike box and checked in, while foldable bikes that fit the carry-on size limits can come be board.
Small pets under 20 lbs can travel with you after paying a small fee in a leak-proof, ventilated carrier and must stay in it throughout the trip.
Inform Amtrak staff right away and file a report either at the station, by phone, or online. Amtrak tracks lost items for up to 30 days, and they’ll do their best to get your luggage back to you.
Amtrak provides baggage assistance for passengers who need extra support. Make sure to request it at least 48 hours before your trip.
Yes, just make sure your equipment is packed securely. Some items might require special handling and could have extra fees, so it’s a good idea if you contact Amtrak in advance.
Try to get to the station at least 45 minutes before your train departs. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to check your luggage and get settled without rushing.
You can bring snacks, non-alcoholic drinks and unopened alcohol onboard. Inform Amtrak in advance if you are carrying oily items or items that are stored in glass.
Smaller instruments that fit carry-on size limits can travel with you onboard. Bigger instruments might need to be checked in and could require advance notice, so let Amtrak know ahead of time.
Generally, bigger sports gear like skis or golf clubs need to be checked in with special packaging. Smaller gear might be okay as carry-on if it fits the size and weight limits.
It’s a good idea to clearly label your bags with your name, phone number, and email. That way, if anything goes missing, it’s easier for Amtrak to get your bags back to you.
Yes, Amtrak does have some restrictions for safety and concerns. Items that carry flammable or explosive substances. If you are unsure about some items, you can contact Amtrak customer service before you travel to avoid any surprises.
Yes, you can bring glass items. Just make sure fragile items are packed well to avoid any damage.
If you are traveling with a group, contact Amtrak’s Group Travel Desk ahead of time to help coordinate baggage and make sure everything runs smoothly.
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