Amtrak baggage loss worries?

Question

I'll be taking two train trips in a row- a 3 hour trip, and a 13 hour trip, a rest in the middle to switch trains..

I'm a little concerned with getting my luggage checked over, and I'm honestly afraid they'll get lost. I really don't want to take any precautions.

I just have a small roll on and a medium size bag for luggage, and I'd like to keep them with me as carry-on for the small trip for safety. Is that okay with Amtrak? I've heard so many horror stories about Amtrak and baggage loss and being late and everything, I'm just nervous.

Thanks! =)

Answer 1

I suggest instead of checking your luggage, just carry it on board with you. Every Superliner has a baggage storage area on the lower level and then you can take your small bag with you and put it in the overhead. Be sure you tag all your luggage with all the info and you will be fine. AMTRAK is pretty good about luggage.

Answer 2

I've taken Amtrak a lot and I've never had a problem with luggage (unlike airlines).  Now, if you are making a tight connection or your train is late, I suppose there could be an issue there, but even then I haven't heard of any problems.  My parents took the train out to see me 3 yrs ago from OR to GA and their train into Chicago was late and the other train was held for them to continue onto to DC.  They made the train and so did their luggage (and they had about 4-5 pieces checked).

Also, Amtrak seems to be really good about watching out for your luggage.  I can't just go grab mine in OR until it's been checked against my claim #.

I'm taking the train this winter from GA to OR (round trip) and I'm stopping in NYC for just over a day.  I'm checking 2 pieces of luggage that will continue on w/o me (something you can't do on the planes) and it will just be held a day at my destination while I get off in NYC with my carry-on for a day.  Amtrak has already told me not to worry about any of that.  Because of their check system for luggage, my parents aren't even allowed to go get my luggage for me when it arrives a day before me.  That's fine with me though.

Good luck!  And don't worry about your luggage being lost.

Answer 3

Take it on with you. Then you won't have any worries.