Amtrak Baggage Policy

When traveling with Amtrak, it’s essential to understand their baggage policy to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Here, we will provide a detailed overview of the Amtrak baggage policy, covering everything from carry-on luggage to checked and lost baggage. Whether you’re carrying a few personal items or checking larger luggage, Amtrak has specific guidelines for both carry-on and checked baggage.

Amtrak baggage policy is designed to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Each traveler can bring up to two personal items, two carry-on items, and two checked bags. The weight and size limits for these items vary, so it’s important to review these details before packing.

Amtrak Carry-On Baggage Policy

Amtrak allows passengers to bring a limited amount of carry-on baggage free of charge. Each passenger can bring two carry-on items, with the following guidelines:

Size	Carry-on items must not exceed 28 x 22 x 14 inches (71 x 56 x 36 cm).
Weight	Each carry-on item must weigh no more than 50 lbs (23 kg).
Permitted Items	Common carry-ons include suitcases, small backpacks, or duffel bags.
Additional Personal Items	You can also carry one personal item such as a backpack, purse, briefcase, or laptop bag.

Amtrak Checked Baggage Policy

If you’re traveling with larger items, Amtrak provides a checked baggage service for specific routes. Not all routes allow checked baggage, so it’s essential to check if your train offers this service. The following guidelines apply:

• Size and Weight: Checked baggage must not exceed 75 lbs (34 kg) and should not be larger than 70 inches (178 cm) in total linear dimensions (length + width + height).
• Fee: There is typically a fee for checked baggage, which varies depending on the route.
• Destination: Amtrak checked baggage is available on many long-distance trains but is not available on all routes, so confirm before booking.

Amtrak Train Baggage Policy

In addition to carry-on items, Amtrak also allows passengers to check up to two bags. These bags must not exceed 75 linear inches (length + width + height) and should weigh no more than 50 pounds each. Checked bags are stored in baggage cars and are not accessible during the journey.

Baggage Type	Details
Carry-On Baggage	– 2 bags allowed per passenger.
	– Maximum size: 28 x 22 x 14 inches (71 x 56 x 36 cm).
	– Weight limit: 50 lbs (23 kg) per item.
	– 1 personal item allowed (e.g., backpack, purse, briefcase).
Checked Baggage	– Available on certain routes (not all Amtrak trains).
	– Maximum size: 70 inches (178 cm) total linear dimensions (length + width + height).
	– Weight limit: 75 lbs (34 kg) per item.
	– Additional fees may apply for checked luggage.
Oversized/Extra Baggage	– Fees apply for oversized items (e.g., large sports equipment).
	– Special packaging required for large items (e.g., bicycles, surfboards).
Bicycles	– Can be checked if properly packed in a bike bag or box.
	– Folding bikes may be carried as a regular carry-on.
	– Fees may apply.
Musical Instruments	– Can be carried as carry-on if within size limits.
	– Larger instruments may need to be checked in.
	– Special handling may be required for oversized instruments.
Sports Equipment	– Can be checked in for items like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, etc.
	– Special packaging required for some items.
Lost or Delayed Baggage	– Report lost or delayed baggage to Amtrak staff at the station.
	– Claims for lost baggage can be filed with Amtrak customer service.
Pet Travel	– Small pets (under 20 lbs) allowed in carriers for a fee.
	– Pets must remain in the carrier throughout the journey.
Special Assistance for Baggage	– Available for passengers with disabilities. Request at least 48 hours in advance.

Amtrak Lost Baggage Policy

In the unfortunate event that your baggage is lost or damaged during your Amtrak journey, the company has a comprehensive lost baggage policy in place. Passengers are advised to report any lost or damaged baggage to an Amtrak representative as soon as possible. Amtrak will then initiate a search for the missing items and, if necessary, will compensate the passenger for any lost or damaged items.

In case your baggage is lost or delayed, Amtrak provides a process to file a claim. Amtrak recommends keeping a copy of your baggage ticket as proof of check-in. Here’s what you need to know:

• Reporting: If your baggage doesn’t arrive at your destination, you can report it to an Amtrak employee at the station.
• Claim Process: You’ll need to provide details such as your ticket and baggage claim number to help locate the missing baggage.
• Compensation: If the baggage is found and returned within a reasonable time frame, Amtrak will return it without additional charge. Compensation for lost items varies depending on circumstances.

Policy Aspect	Details
Reporting Lost Baggage	– Report lost baggage to Amtrak staff at the station.
	– Baggage must be reported as missing within 24 hours of arrival at the destination.
Claim Process	– Passengers must provide their baggage claim ticket and a description of the lost item.
	– A claim can be filed with Amtrak customer service for assistance in locating the baggage.
Baggage Tracking	– Amtrak tracks lost baggage based on the baggage claim number provided at check-in.
Compensation for Lost Baggage	– If baggage is not located within a reasonable time frame, compensation may be offered.
	– Compensation varies based on the situation, but typically includes reimbursement for lost items.
Delayed Baggage	– If baggage is delayed, Amtrak will work to return it to the passenger as soon as possible.
	– Amtrak may provide temporary assistance (such as clothing or toiletries) in case of significant delays.
Damaged Baggage	– If baggage is damaged, passengers can file a damage claim with Amtrak.
Liability Limits	– Amtrak’s liability for lost or damaged baggage is limited. Passengers should ensure valuables are carried with them.
Contacting Amtrak for Lost Baggage	– For assistance, contact Amtrak’s Baggage Services at 1-800-USA-RAIL or file a report online.

Amtrak Surfliner Baggage Policy

The Amtrak Surfliner, which operates along the California coast, has a slightly different baggage policy due to the unique nature of this route. According to the official Amtrak website, each passenger is allowed two carry-on items and two checked bags. However, due to space limitations, oversized items such as surfboards or bicycles may not be allowed on certain trains.

Baggage Type	Details
Carry-On Baggage	– 2 bags allowed per passenger.
	– Maximum size: 28 x 22 x 14 inches (71 x 56 x 36 cm).
	– Weight limit: 50 lbs (23 kg) per item.
	– 1 personal item allowed (e.g., backpack, purse, briefcase).
Checked Baggage	– Not available on Amtrak Surfliner trains.
Oversized Baggage	– Amtrak Surfliner does not offer checked baggage service, so oversized baggage must be carried on, within the size and weight limits.
Bicycles	– Bicycles are allowed on the Surfliner, but they must be in a folding bike bag (if not folded).
	– Bikes must be within carry-on baggage size limits if traveling as carry-on.
	– A fee applies for bikes, and reservations are recommended.
Musical Instruments	– Musical instruments (e.g., guitars, violins) allowed as carry-on if within size limits.
	– Larger instruments may need to be checked if space is unavailable.
Sports Equipment	– Small sports equipment (e.g., skis, surfboards) may be carried as carry-on if within the size limit.
	– Oversized sports equipment requires special arrangements and may incur fees.
Pet Travel	– Small pets (under 20 lbs) are allowed in carriers for a fee.
	– Pets must stay in their carrier throughout the journey.
Special Assistance for Baggage	– Assistance is available for passengers with disabilities, including help with carry-on baggage.
Additional Notes	– Carry-on baggage for the Surfliner is subject to space availability.
	– Extra fees apply for bicycles and pets.

Amtrak Special Baggage Policy

Amtrak also offers policies for traveling with special items such as bicycles, musical instruments, and large sports equipment. Here’s a closer look at these specific baggage policies:

• Bicycles: Amtrak allows passengers to bring bicycles on board, but there are specific requirements and fees. You can either:
  • Pack your bike in a bike bag or box, which will then be treated as checked baggage.
  • Foldable bikes can be carried on as a regular carry-on item if folded and within the allowable size limit.
    • Some trains have designated spaces for bicycles, but not all routes offer this service.
    • Fees typically apply, and the size and packaging of the bike must meet Amtrak’s specifications.
• Musical Instruments: Amtrak permits musical instruments such as guitars, violins, or small pianos, but they must be within the size and weight limits of carry-on baggage. Larger instruments might need to be checked in, and fees could apply for oversized items.
• Sports Equipment: Items like skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and surfboards can be checked as baggage. These items often require special packaging and may incur additional fees. It’s important to ensure your sports gear is packaged correctly to avoid damage during transport.

Amtrak’s Baggage Service for Passengers with Disabilities

Amtrak also accommodates passengers with disabilities. If you require assistance with baggage or have special needs, Amtrak provides dedicated services. Travelers can request help in advance to ensure smooth boarding, assist with the transport of bags, or arrange for accessible accommodations on the train.

For passengers who need assistance with carrying heavy or oversized items, Amtrak staff can offer support at the station and on the train. To avoid any delays or inconvenience, be sure to notify Amtrak at least 48 hours prior to your trip if you need such assistance.

How to Handle Amtrak Baggage on International Routes?

Amtrak primarily operates in the United States, but certain routes may take you to destinations near international borders. However, Amtrak does not operate international train services, so all baggage policies are based on U.S. domestic travel. If you’re traveling near the border, such as on the Amtrak Cascades route between Seattle and Vancouver, Canada, you may encounter specific customs and immigration requirements.

• Cross-Border Travel: When traveling near international borders, your baggage may be subject to additional screening by border authorities. Be sure to allow extra time for this when crossing into another country.
• Baggage Screening: As with any international travel, you may need to comply with additional customs checks, so be prepared to declare any items that may require inspection or declaration.

Amtrak Baggage Services for Group Travel

Traveling with a group? Amtrak offers specific baggage accommodations for larger parties, making it easier to handle the logistics of traveling with multiple pieces of luggage. If you are traveling as part of a group, here’s what you need to know:

• Group Bookings: When booking travel for a group, you may qualify for additional baggage allowances or special group rates on checked luggage. It’s a good idea to contact Amtrak’s group sales team to confirm any specific rules for baggage with a large group.
• Handling Excess Baggage: If a group has multiple large or extra bags, Amtrak recommends that you contact customer service in advance. Depending on the route and train, Amtrak may offer extra space or allow for additional baggage with prior arrangements.

Tips for Packing Your Amtrak Baggage

Packing efficiently for your train journey will help you comply with Amtrak’s baggage policies and ensure a smooth travel experience. Here are some helpful packing tips:

• Pack Light: While Amtrak offers generous baggage allowances, try to pack light to make your journey more comfortable. Carry only the essentials and avoid overloading your carry-on.
• Use Soft-Sided Bags: Soft-sided luggage is often easier to store in the overhead bins or under your seat compared to rigid suitcases, especially on busy trains.
• Secure Fragile Items: If you’re bringing fragile items, such as electronics or musical instruments, make sure they are well-padded and packed securely to prevent damage during your trip. You may also want to consider checking them as baggage for added security.
• Label Your Bags: Always label your baggage with your name, contact information, and destination. This is especially important for checked baggage in case it gets misplaced or delayed.
• Keep Essentials Accessible: Keep important items such as medications, travel documents, or snacks in your carry-on so you can easily access them during your journey.

What to Do if You Have Oversized or Special Items?

If you are traveling with oversized items that don’t fit into the Amtrak baggage policy guidelines, such as large sports equipment, furniture, or heavy-duty items, you may need to make special arrangements. Here’s how to handle oversized luggage:

• Contact Amtrak in Advance: Amtrak recommends contacting them in advance if you have any oversized items, as some trains may not be equipped to handle large baggage. They may offer guidance on the best way to prepare and transport your oversized luggage.
• Special Packaging: Large items such as surfboards, skis, or large musical instruments often require special packaging. If you’re unsure, check with Amtrak’s customer service team for recommendations on how to securely package your belongings.
• Additional Fees: Be aware that oversized items often come with additional fees. These fees are in place to cover the extra handling and storage space required for large baggage.

Amtrak Commitment to Safety and Security

Amtrak takes the safety and security of passengers and their belongings seriously. To ensure a secure journey, Amtrak has several measures in place regarding baggage:

• Security Screenings: Depending on your departure station, Amtrak may conduct baggage screenings, especially at larger stations. Passengers should allow extra time at the station in case of security checks.
• Locked Storage: For checked baggage, Amtrak uses secure storage areas to keep your luggage safe during the journey. Passengers should, however, keep valuable items such as passports, electronics, or cash in their carry-on bags.
• Assistance for Passengers with Disabilities: Amtrak is committed to offering accessible travel, and this includes baggage handling. For passengers with disabilities, Amtrak provides assistance with both carry-on and checked baggage. Be sure to request assistance at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Conclusion

Amtrak’s baggage policies are straightforward but vary depending on your route. Be sure to check specific details for your train to avoid surprises at the station. Whether you’re carrying on a small suitcase, checking in larger luggage, or traveling along the scenic Amtrak Surfliner route, knowing the baggage rules will ensure a hassle-free trip.

FAQs on Amtrak Baggage Policy