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If you live in those United States of America, then there is only one name when it comes to train travel. That name is Amtrak. As far as I know, they have a monopoly on cross-country train travel. How can you wrest a discount from these robber barons? (Amtrak is owned by the government, not actual robber barons.) I'll show you how.
Weekly Specials
Amtrak offers weekly specials. It's hard to plan based on what Amtrak throws up. Imagine, however, that you live in Kansas City and want to visit your brother in St. Louis. ( This was a route that was offered as a special at the time of writing.) Checking the boards frequently will allow you to find deals to visit nearby relatives for cheap and with a small carbon footprint.
Advertised Specials
Advertised specials are also kind of a crapshoot, but you'll find more extensive routes in this category. You'll also find trips to more touristy locations.
Passenger Discounts
Amtrak offers discounts to certain people.
- Seniors 62 and over are eligible for a 15% discount on most routes.
- Kids under 15 get 50% off.
- Kids under 2 ride free.
- AAA members get 10% off.
- Students with ISIC cards get 15% off.
- NARP members get 10% off.
- Military get 10% off.
Each of these discounts has restrictions and limitations.
Membership Cards
Students and Veterans can purchase membership cards. These cards reduce the cost of riding on Amtrak. They have an annual membership fee.
Promotion Codes
Amtrak often advertises specials in Arrive Magazine and tourist centers. The internet is great because anyone can find out about them. Check out this list.
Hopefully, you can find a discount in there somewhere. Train travel is one of the greenest methods of commuting. For short distances it rivals the plane in speed and surpasses airplanes in convenience. For long distances, train travel is fun and exciting.
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