When is the Best Time to Buy Amtrak Tickets?

Traveling with Amtrak is comfortable and scenic, but when is the best time to buy Amtrak tickets? The best time to purchase cheap Amtrak tickets is to book as early as possible, up to 2 weeks in advance, and avoid peak travel days like weekends and holidays. Traveling mid-week, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often offers lower fares. Being flexible with your travel dates and taking advantage of special deals like “Night Owl” fares can also help you save more.

Best Time to Book Amtrak Tickets

Knowing the optimal times to purchase Amtrak tickets can help travelers save money and secure the best available fares. Here’s helpful information on the ideal booking windows.

Book Up to 2 Weeks in Advance

The most significant savings are often available when booking as far as 2 weeks before your departure date. During this period, Amtrak releases its “Saver” fares, which are the cheapest options available for each route. These fares are limited in quantity and tend to sell out quickly as the departure date approaches.

Why book this early? 

• Availability of Discounted Fares: Saver fares are only available when first released.
• Maximum Choice: Booking early offers more options for train times and seating preferences.
• Lock in Lower Prices: As more people want to buy tickets, prices usually go up. Booking early helps you get the cheapest fare.

2 to 6 Weeks Before Departure (Especially for Northeast Routes)

For travelers heading to major Northeast destinations like Boston, New York City, or Washington D.C., booking between 2 to 6 weeks prior can still secure excellent deals, particularly on popular routes like the Northeast Regional.

Secret Boston recommends this window because:

• It’s close enough to the departure date to still find some discounted “Saver” fares.
• It balances availability with affordability, especially for last-minute planners.

Note: On routes outside the Northeast, fare prices may vary, so always check early.

More Than 14 Days in Advance for Certain Routes

For some routes, especially those less traveled or with less demand, Amtrak’s “Saver” fares can be purchased more than 14 days before departure. These fares are the most restrictive but also the most affordable.

Key point: 

• “Saver” fares require booking at least 14 days in advance.
• They typically don’t allow changes or cancellations, so plan carefully.

When Amtrak Fares Are Typically the Highest?

• Last-Minute Booking (Within a Few Days of Departure): Prices tend to spike as the train fills up, especially for peak travel days like weekends or holidays.
• Peak Seasons: Summer months, major holidays, and special events often see higher prices with limited discount availability.
• Weekends and Peak Travel Days: Fridays, Sundays, and holiday weekends usually command higher fares.

More Ways to Get Cheaper Amtrak Fares

Beyond booking early, there are several smart strategies you can use to secure cheaper tickets. From traveling at off-peak times to leveraging group discounts, these tips can help you ride comfortably without stretching your budget.

Travel During Off-Peak Days and Times

Traveling mid-week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays) tends to be the best time to buy cheap Amtrak tickets than weekends and peak travel days. Similarly, opting for trains departing at less convenient hours, such as late at night or early morning, can yield Night Owl or Early Bird discounts.

• Night Owl fares are available on selected routes, mainly between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., offering significant savings.
• Early Bird fares are for morning departures and can be equally affordable.

Subscribe to Amtrak Promotions and Loyalty Programs

• Amtrak Guest Rewards: Earn points for every trip, which can be redeemed for future free or discounted tickets.
• Email and Social Media Alerts: Subscribe to Amtrak’s mailing list and follow their social media channels to hear about flash sales, promotions, or special discounts, often released on Tuesday mornings.

Consider Rail Passes for Longer or Multi-City Trips

• If you plan multiple trips or a cross-country journey, a USA Rail Pass can be more economical than buying individual tickets. 
• These passes often provide substantial savings, especially when booked closer to the travel date.

Group Travel and Share Fares

Traveling with friends or family? Share Fares offer discounts of up to 60% for groups of 3-8 people when booked at least two days in advance.

The discounts increase with the number of travelers:

• 3 people: 15% off
• 4 people: 25% off
• 5 people: 37% off
• 6 people: 47% off
• 7 people: 54% off
• 8 people: 60% off

By planning ahead or taking advantage of promotional deals, you can enjoy scenic train journeys affordably. The best time to buy cheap Amtrak tickets is usually atleast 2 weeks in advance or during special sales. Always check current fares and policies for the most accurate and up-to-date savings opportunities.

Commonly Asked Questions