What to expect while taking the Amtrak?

Question

I'm taking the Amtrak train to Virginia Beach from Boston to visit a friend. I have never traveled completely by myslef and hav never been on Amtrak. I have a few questions. I contacted Amtrak about checked baggage, they said that their isn't any checked baggage for the train ride I am taking and I am allowed to take 2 carry ons. Do they put them through metal detectors? Do I put it in an overhead? I don't really know where I am going either. Are there a a lot of signs to tell me where to go? Do I check in somewhere then go to a place to board? Also, I have to take a taxi there because the train leaves at 6 am and the local buses and trains dont run early enough. Do taxi's run 24 hours and usually how much is a 5 mile drive? Thanks Guys!!!

Answer 1

Other posters got it right.  If your luggage is medium sized or larger, you might have to put it in a luggage rack at one end of the coach.

Answer 2

No metal detectors. Depends on the car, but usually there is an overhead rack.

Really early taxis you should check with the cab company the night before.

Back bay, there is a choice of 2 tracks, you need to find the right one. There should be signs.

Rt 128 station, I think there is only one track.

South Station, lots of tracks. But there should be signs.

You will have to change trains at least once, not sure.

have fun.

Answer 3

I'll try to answer some of your questions:

--I assume you're taking train 95/495, which leaves Boston's South Station at 6:05am, and arrives at Newport News that evening at 6:50pm.  I assume you're then transferring to a reserved bus that will take you to Virginia Beach by 8:30pm.

--Most Amtrak trains, with the exception of those offering overnight service, don't have checked baggage these days.

--There will be a luggage rack over your seat, in which you can store a couple of medium-sized suitcases.  

--Security is up to Amtrak and will vary based on the current Homeland Security condition, but in all likelihood your bags won't be x-rayed or put through a metal detector.  They do have the right to inspect them, though, and there could be a dog "sniffing" for explosives and other prohibited items.

--If you have your ticket upon arriving at Boston South Station, you do not have to check in.  Simply look at the television monitors showing departures, which will show the gate from which your train will be leaving, and head over there.  Before allowing you past the gate your ticket will be checked and you will be directed to the train.

--I'm not very familiar with Boston cabs, but in all major cities they operate on a 24 hour basis.  To ensure that one will be there for you bright and early, you should call one of the taxi companies the day before and see if you can schedule one to pick you up at your home.  I don't know how much they charge, but I'd hazard a guess at around $10-$20.

For your reference, here's the official web site for Boston's South Station, that includes a map and other useful information:  http://www.south-station.net/