How To Save Money On Your Train-Set Summer Vacation

Summary

How To Save Money On Your Train-Set Summer Vacation

With summer fast approaching, many Americans’ minds turn to planning vacations — where to go, what to see, how to get there. And it is important to get out there, as decades of research confirm there are profound physical and mental health benefits to be derived by stepping out of the norm to experience new people and places, to say nothing of storing up happy, life-affirming memories.

For many, riding the rails is the way to go. Whether you're headed across country or want to explore every nook and cranny Europe has to offer, train travel provides a flexibility the airlines just can’t match, and at significantly lower fares. If you do plan on taking the train this summer, keep in mind these tips that can unlock even more savings.

No Time Like the Present: Unlike the airlines, many train operators offer generous discounts for customers who book early. For instance, travelers booking ahead even by a week can save 25% or more; last-minute bookings rarely get that deal. The smart thing to do is get your ticket as soon as you have your itinerary set and use the dollars saved on another part of the trip.

Chow Down: Like the airlines, train lines need to squeeze every possible penny out of every trip, which is why dining cars and station kiosks usually charge steep prices for basic food items. Indeed, a bottled water or sandwich can cost double what it does off the train. The solution is to bring your own. Smart travelers buy sandwiches, snacks and beverages beforehand to ensure they’ve got enough fuel to make it to the journey’s end and avoid hangry splurging.

Hit the Bricks: Whether you’re traveling domestically or abroad, it’s a safe bet that your destination station will be located in the heart of the city, much in contrast to those out-in-the-suburbs airports. That proximity means you can often walk or take affordable public transit to your lodging, which is healthier, cheaper and often far faster than sitting in traffic.

Bag Check: Again, much in contrast with the airlines these days, most train operators don't charge for checked baggage. Some do have limits, however, so doing your research ahead of time can save you money. A good rule of thumb of train travel, by the way, is to pack as light as you can in order to more easily navigate your way through busy stations and the bustling city streets outside.

Take A Pass: If your train vacation encompasses multiple stops, it might well be worth your while to look into purchasing a rail pass such as Eurail or Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass. These usually offer unlimited trips for one flat price and can prove a real bargain for longer journeys. In some cases, the pass can pay for itself in just a few rides.

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