Amtrak Questions

I need to go from Washington, DC to 30th St. station in Philadelphia.
I’m planning on booking a ticket on Amtrak. I haven’t used them for a long time.
I don’t trust the Amtrak site or toll free # for info, so I’m asking TUG.

Are saver fares refundable?
If I book a train at say 2 pm, can I get on an earlier or later train the same day?
Are the trains normally on time? Is there a train # that is notoriously late?
Can I make changes to the reservation before the trip with no penalties (if it's a few days out)?
Should I book two one ways or a round trip?
Are discounts easy to find?
The fares are $40 each way for travel in November. Is that a good fare? Do fares get higher or lower closer to travel? Do they run last minute sale fares?
Is it worth signing up for their rewards program?

I may do a trip on the auto train in the next 5 years, but probably won’t use Amtrak much at all.

swj said:

I don’t trust the Amtrak site or toll free # for info, so I’m asking TUG.

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I have no personal experience with the route you're considering, but honestly, I would ask the folks at Amtrak. I have found them to be exceptional in service by phone and on the trains. I've taken three long-distance multiple day (round) trips and been very happy.

Some questions are best asked of the company . . . not strangers on a discussion forum that isn't specifically about the question you're seeking answers to. There is an Amtrak forum out there, if you want to ask other Amtrak customers. Even Trip Advisor's "Train Forum" would be a better place to ask that perhaps a timeshare group.

The Tug of Travel (Air Hotel and Ground)

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/amtrak-guest-rewards-399/

I take Amtrak all the time. I have never, ever had a problem with booking through their website.
I don't understand your concerns, but you must have your reasons.



Your questions can be best answered by calling Amtrak:

(800) 872-7245

Beaglemom3 said:

I take Amtrak all the time. I have never, ever had a problem with booking through their website.
I don't understand your concerns, but you must have your reasons.



Your questions can be best answered by calling Amtrak:

(800) 872-7245

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Plus booking thru the website is CHEAPER.

Although I've taken that route a few times, I can't answer most of your questions. The one I do know, is normally Amtrak fares don't go down, usually go up closer to date.

Nancy

Rent_Share said:

The Tug of Travel (Air Hotel and Ground)

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/amtrak-guest-rewards-399/

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Thanks for the link.

I spoke with an Amtrak rep yesterday and booked the trip (online). They answered all of my questions, I was happy with the call. The main item I learned was to cancel before the trip to get future credit. For the cheapest fares you get an e -credit for most other fares you can get a full refund.