Auto train from Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL?

Question

I am relocating down to Tampa and I am going to be taking the auto-train from VA to FL. I will be traveling alone. I am debating between the superliner roomette and the standard accommodation's. What would you recommend? Are the standard accommodations okay for sleeping?

Also, does the train have wi-fi? I would like to bring my laptop onboard with me.

I also have heard that meals aren't included in the standard fare. If I wanted to could I purchase the dinner?

Thanks for your help :)

Answer 1

I just took the train today as I relocated to Daytona from NYC. the previous answer is a good one I must admit. here are some inclusions:

- if you are going soon the coach accomodations this time of year are not that bad and much cheaper. the train is pretty empty going south as most of the snowbirds are heading up north. i got a seat by myself and could semi stretch out(always be extra nice checking in as the folks are good people and will help you if the accomodations are there).

- no wifi does blow but they do have outlets so you dont have to worry about your battery dying.i loaded up on games and movies and the trip wasnt too bad. they do play a movie several times and it was Enchanted going south

- dinner and a lite continental b'fast are included. you can buy drinks or snacks for extra $$. the only part that can be bad is that to maximize space you have to sit with other folks most times. to be honest I have taken it 3 times and always met nnice and polite people even if they arent the most interesting.

-the last time they will take your car is 3PM. you cannot board until 2:30PM. once you check in and give them your car you cannot get into it again. the train was delayed today and there were people lined up at 11AM to get into the station.why????????????? they would be sitting for hours. when you get to lorton and are early go get something to eat and get snacks from local stores before heading in.

-bring your own blanket and pillow(s). they do give you a tiny pillow and a thin blanket but taking your own makes it much much better

- you can alos contact amtrak if you need kosher, low sodium, etc and they are more than accomodating.

- the only truly annoying part is waiting for your car but to be honest it is always handled better in FLA than VA.

hope this helps. good luck with your trip and relocation

Answer 2

Let me clarify.  On the Auto Train, you have a choice of riding coach (which means you have a seat along an aisle), or you can book a private compartment.  There are four types of compartments: Bedroom, Roommette, Family Bedroom, and Handicapped Bedroom.  Traveling by yourself, the Roommette makes the most sense.  During the day it provides you with two seats (one to sit on and one to dump some of your stuff on), which converts at night into a full-length bed, with a door to provide privacy.

The Auto Train doesn't have wi-fi.  Meals are complimentary for all passengers, including those riding in coach and those riding in compartments.  The meals for those riding in compartments ("first class"), are more up-scale in what they serve.

Some friends of mine have put together an excellent guide to riding the Auto Train, that will answer any other questions you may have.  Here's a link:

http://www.on-track-on-line.com

And then click on "Auto Train Tips".