Amtrak Sleeper Car Roomette Tips

[@michael029138]

For a much better and quiet ride, always make reservation for the Sleepers in the middle of the car, never over the wheels of the car or you will have to listen to the clickety clack and have a rougher ride. This from a former Train Conductor.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Great advice, thanks! We will do that next time!

[@dzymslizzy3641]

I think that might just lull me to sleep. I suffer from tinnitus, so I always use a white noise machine anyway to get to sleep... ;-)

[@headishome8452]

Thank you so much!!

[@thelastremainingmoderate1997]

How? Do you have to make reservations by phone? There's no way to make specific requests on line.

[@kayrobbie5840]

Does that also apply to the shaking of the train all night that is so bad. It feels like your insides are being scrambled. And hearing the train whistle blowing all night. That is my experience when taking an overnight trip from NYC to Orlando Florida on Amtrak. But that was over 10 years ago. Has it improved since?

[@NancyBiker]

Had my first Amtrak experience this past weekend and it was wonderful! The roomette was great as was the dining car and sightseeing car. I must say that the employees of Amtrak are the best including the people at the Chicago Union Station. I also really enjoyed interacting with my fellow travelers. Your videos helped me feel as though I wasn’t completely inexperienced. Thank you. See ya on the rails.

[@nancyjones9876]

Our experience on the train was terribly funny. We went ftom Austin to LA in a room , 2 chairs and table/bathroom in our room. Like you showed corner sink and toilet. Shower was also in there, sit on toilet and pull chain WATER!!! My mother was in the bathroom and to help her up off the toilet she grabbed that chain. Came out with water running down her. Funny to me and her grandson, not so much for her. This was a ,once a week beauty salon, lady. So funny and years later still funny and also good memories since she has been gone several years.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Stories like that are great, thanks for sharing!

[@daa4309]

Nancy thank you for sharing your experience.😊 It was funny reading it. I'm sorry for your loss but at least you have great memories to remember her by.

[@watchingfromafargivingmyop7420]

Also bring cash to tip the attendant .I traveled from Chicago to Atlanta in October . Great trip . Attendant's ere very helpful and pleasent.

[@maxmedlin4875]

How much do you tip? For every service or at the end

[@brendapayne6603]

I always have my meals in my room because I have trouble with steps. I tip $5.00 for every meal brought to me and also some extra when I leave the train.

[@richardeshom4985]

@@brendapayne6603 These days, I assume that getting your own food is not an option - so having your meals delivered to the room is kind of the only option. I would think that tipping the attendant would be the equivalent of tipping the diner server. 20% of a $25 (one person) meal (judging by the prices on the traditional menu) would be about $5.00 - so that sounds about right. If traveling with two people, would you double that, then? (...and are you the Brenda Payne that I know?)

[@NozomuYume]

I like to tip the attendant $20 for a single night + day trip, $10 for a day trip as a solo traveler, or $10 per day for a multi-day trip as a solo traveler. For two people I up the daily tip to $15. I usually tip up front each day. For a single day trip or a day+night trip I tip them the very first time they come to check on me in my room. Since I like having my bed down, I often hit the call attendant button after departing, and tip them when they show up. Tipping up front gets you better service since they know you are tipping, vs. just hoping you are tipping. If I get room service I tip them a couple dollars for their trouble, rather than a percentage tip (since I have already given them a daily tip up front). I have never failed to receive good service from tipping up front. I usually don't tip on leaving the train, but I do when I get absolutely exceptional service. In those cases I tip an extra $5 or so on exiting if they did an exceptional job, or $10 if they did something amazing far and above the call of duty that surprised me. (Again, this is on top of the up-front tip). i.e. the exit tip is rare but done on a purely holy-crap-I-appreciate-you basis. Remember that every employee on Amtrak receives a (barely) living wage. They make a lot more money in base wages than a waiter at a diner does. They do not *depend* on tips. Nonetheless, that tip is important for service. Tailor your tip for the amount of service that you want to receive. If you're just gonna sit alone in your roomette all the time and want zero service, tip less. I like to have my bed down all the time and never have the room in "seat" configuration, so unless I have them do room service, the attendant has zero labor after the initial setup. Also remember that they can shift your rooms at will if there is space. On one 11-hour day trip they let my party move to the family bedroom since it had not been reserved. Obviously if someone reserved it at the last minute they would have had to kick us out, but that was unlikely. The $20 tip I handed them on boarding made them very conducive to letting us use it.

[@sandymiller99]

@@NozomuYume thanks for all that info! It was super helpful. I’m planning my first Amtrak trip and will be going with my service dog. I think I’ll tip upfront a large amount and let them know it’s my first trip and I don’t know what I’m doing (I may be more “needy” with questions). Hopefully they will have patience with me!

[@LamourMelanie]

I thought I was watching the news for two seconds. Your voice is perfect for a news reporting! Awesome videoooo as always!!!

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Wow, thanks!

[@litaperna1128]

Yes. She's excellent.

[@franchescapena1134]

Agreed!

[@caroll6261]

Yes, she is adorable! Your Voice is VERY excellent! Yes, the sound of your voice is friendly and air time worthy on the tv. New viewer, you and the hubs make traveling on a train less scary. Thank you both for that💐💐😁😉

[@tellemnorth1368]

If you are traveling any distance by train, roomettes are the best way to travel. We took a trip on the Empire Builder to Seattle four years ago and we were on board for two days. For us, the meals were included with the roomette, however, if we wanted alcohol with the meal, this was an extra purchase. We had purchased a half bottle of wine with dinner one night, and we could not take it back to the roomette. This may have changed. The attendant we had was wonderful. He would make the beds when we left for breakfast, then turn down the beds when we went to dinner. He would always ask before he did anything. Yes, remember to tip the attendant.

[@chipom9686]

What would be the best time to tip the attendant? Every time they come to the room or at the end of the journey. And what’s a good amount?

[@Afterfect]

​@@chipom9686 this is a good question. I don't see an answer here but did you ever figure it out or find one from somewhere else?

[@christinaw.4626]

​they have a video related to tipping 👍🏾

[@whiplashfatigue1430]

You can BYOB when you have a room, only allowed to drink it in your room tho. It’s also cheaper than buying booze in the diner car or cafe.

[@grayrabbit2211]

2023 -- Amtrak says first adult beverage at dinner is on them.

[@dsanford12]

Bring a power strip / surge protector, increase your outlets

[@siohbon2]

No matter how I’m traveling, I always have a power strip.👍🏽👍🏽

[@lifewithjosef]

And an extension cord.

[@NozomuYume]

@@lifewithjosef I just bring a power strip that has a very long cord, that way no extension cord is needed. It's my designated power strip specifically for Amtrak trips, with built-in USB A and USB C ports as well as AC sockets. xD That way I'm not fumbling around with adapters and can charge my stuff right off the strip.

[@doreenp632]

I do the same, I picked up a great one from ikea a few years ago for like $7.

[@nellgrill3845]

Good tip. Will do

[@squalli1297]

Very helpful info. I have been travelling by train for many years with my wife who is claustrophobic. Roomettes are perfect for 2 people during daytime travel. There is very little room to maneuver in a roomette in sleep mode. Those who are larger or with joint problems prefer to sleep on the bottom bunk and it's safer.. Some couples have been able to reserve 2 roomettes in the same car for more space at night. Restrooms are generally cramped, but those in coach (downstairs) have accessible restrooms offering more space for those who prefer to sit comfortably. I would also suggest packing sanitizing wipes and sprays for use in the restrooms since they are in constant use. Lavatory areas in Viewliner roomettes need special attention sanitizing upon boarding.

[@northeastoutrider2124]

I’ve made use of the rooms between Chicago and DC once as well as several trips on the auto train from DC to Orlando. While I love the overnight in a roomette, I’ve learned to always bring a clip up fan to feel some better airflow. Those rooms can get stuffy with the door closed.

[@sharongitlin2936]

I slept on the upper bunk in a roomette. The bunk was accessed via carpeted stairs next to the beds. I slipped on the way down from the bed due to having put socks on. I hit my toes on the metal frame of the door. It took a couple of weeks before my toes felt normal again. To others, I recommend coming down the stairs in one’s bare feet or putting on shoes that have a good gripe before going down the stairs.

[@axjmd]

Here's another very important tip: Speaking of "TIP" If your attendant was absolutely wonderful, give him/her a tip at the end of your journey. If by chance you should go again on Amtrak and stay in a roomette and you coincidentally get the same attendant, he/she will remember your generous tip you gave and will be apt to give you exceptional service and again give this attendant a tip as well if this attendant (same or different) was great again. Don't forget all your meals are included with your fare. Only roomette passengers get their meals included. A fun thing is bring a portable radio scanner. Prior to your trip program your radio with railroad frequencies especially for your trip. You can hear your crew and monitor your trip.

[@Pineapplehead81]

In terms of tip, what would be appropriate? As a Brit im very careful to not undertip in the US but I wouldnt really know how to judge. I would be on an overnight from Chicago to Memphis.

[@chrisdobrowolski2783]

@@Pineapplehead81 Sorry it is a bit late for this but for next trip. I will say flexible meals like $3 to $5 per meal since those meals are prepared ahead of time and just reheated in the microwave. For Tradditional Dinning I would do $5 to $10 per meal. Also for Sleeper Attendent I would say $10-20 per day depending how helpful the person (could be even more its your choice).

[@ellenjones6064]

Good video. I have been traveling on Amtrak for 35 years to Florida. I have seen many changes over the years but still enjoy the ride.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Thanks for sharing!

[@WhatDoesMyChannelNameMean]

Thank you for showing the room! :) Amtrak's official "room tour" video has not a single picture of the room, just pictures of coffee cups and the outside of the train.

[@LisaMarli]

We travel with a short extension cord, a surge protected power strip, and a multiport USB outlet box. And lots of USB cords. That's just my usual electric cords bag for hotels. It's been useful on the train too. I take a fully charged battery back up up to top bunk, it can keep my electronics going all night. I do find downloading anything you want to read or watch on your devices before you leave home. That way you don't have to worry about the internet always being available. Bring some command strips and hooks. You can use them to keep things steady or as an extra hook. Just be polite and take them down when you are leaving. And check ALL storage nooks as you are leaving. My son lost a favorite jacket.

[@richardeshom4985]

@LisaMarli Sorry, I had never heard of a "command strip" before, I had to look that one up. It's an interesting idea, and I'd like to hear more about what exactly you use these things for. It looks like Amtrak already provides a closet or butler bar (with hangers) to hang a change of clothing, several fold-out hooks on the wall for items that need more immediate accessibility, plus small shelves, a fold-away table, and pouches/pockets for the upper bunk. I travel pretty light, and I can't imagine needing to keep that much stuff affixed to the surfaces of my train compartment, so unless I find good reason, I am rather inclined not to clutter my carry-on with command strips. Everything else you said makes perfect sense, though, and thanks for the suggestions.

[@LisaMarli]

@@richardeshom4985 Mostly I use it to keep things in place. If you want a power strip to stay in one place, if you use a "picture hanger" two piece, it acts like velcro, but you can remove it without damage at the end of your trip. Other people use the hooks to hold things like their reading glasses and to keep cords under control. With so few plugs, cords get everywhere, what with all our chargers and phones etc.

[@caroll6261]

Love MMM strips!

[@whiplashfatigue1430]

They also make suction cups with hooks. Easy on, easy off. I found it best goes on a window or mirror, and can also be used in hotels.

[@mikebarnbaum636]

Definitely gave this video a “like” and have also “subscribed” to this channel.👍🔔 I am in a roomette in May 2024 on two of three trains to celebrate my 50th birthday, which will be in October 2024. It looks like I will sleep in the bottom bunk, rather than the top as I need the outlet. Hopefully, the Amtrak room attendants will allow me to use the top bunk for storage of my luggage and my day pack, while I use the bottom for sleeping, based on the tips provided in this video.🤝

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Thanks! Yes we often put our backpacks on the upper bed during the day, shouldn't be a problem. There is less room up there on a Superliner though as those beds fold up.

[@mariposapapillon9261]

Fantastic video! Thank you! You make me feel confident about experiencing my first roomette on Amtrak. I travel solo, so the room might feel spacious to me. I can't wait to ride in the observation car, of course. But I very much look forward to the privacy of the roomette as I look out of the window to big open sky, beautiful nature and maybe even some wildlife (of land and air) along the way.

[@phylmorgan4301]

You will love it! I traveled alone across the country a few years ago. Yes, the car is plenty roomy enough for one. Have fun!

[@1beakin]

if you are planning on the observation car, make sure to get your spot early. It fills up with coach travelers.

[@andrewwoodburn928]

Bring a power strip or small three outlet extension cord. Great tip for hotels too.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Good advice!

[@andrewwoodburn928]

@@GroundedLifeTravel thank you!

[@leed119]

OK in general you are right. However I stayed at a hotels and they had/ no joke I had to stop and count them/ over 12 out lets>>some set of 2 some set of 4 also ubs ports.

[@ackman3981]

@@leed119 - And a hotel room is 20X+ the size of a room on Amtrak. So they have the space. And not have to either have electricity from batteries, or create it as the wheels are moving. A hotel is plugged into the wires like all the other buildings do. And have unlimited supply.

[@harryborsalino1276]

Excellent video! It reflects my experience very closely, although I travelled solo. Especially in the roomette, keep it simple, is what I have told people. When COVID becomes less of a factor, I look forward to another train adventure, and your videos are always helpful. Thanks for another fun and informative video!

[@nathanrosenthal9879]

1. I bought some 1-foot extension cords years ago. I take one with me along with a cube tap. 2. Unless you are a clean freak, don't shower on the train. Wait until you get to your destination. Also for men, unless you use an electric shaver, don't shave. The train motion may result in cuts.

[@richardeshom4985]

Bring (and use) deodorant, whether you shower or not.

[@SWITCHMASHER]

Shaving is part of the fun of riding the train

[@donnafebeeadonohamm7856]

Bull a person can take a shower and they are very clean

[@nellgrill3845]

I found bathroom and showers clean. No problems 😊 love it!!

[@donnafebeeadonohamm7856]

@@nellgrill3845 I am traveling on Amtrak going to New Orleans in July I'm leaving Wilson North Carolina and going to New Orleans and then a relative is going to pick me up from New Orleans and we're driving back to West Monroe Louisiana.

[@catherinemccollister2103]

I'm so glad I found your channel! My son and I are taking a long distance trip this summer, so your videos have been super helpful. :)

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Great!! Hope you have a great trip;-)

[@jdbaiocco1]

I'm preparing for my first overnight trip on a train in one of the roommettes on the Empire Builder from Spokane to Minneapolis. Your video's have been very helpful. Great job.

[@bmljenny]

I've done the trip between LA and New Orleans twice and these are definitely good tips. I was going to New Orleans for both work and fun so I had a large suitcase with me and not only would there have been no place for it in the roomette, I couldn't have gotten it up the stairs with the tight bend. Definitely pack a little day-bag with your PJs, toiletries, medications, etc. I just used a paper grocery bag. I absolutely loved it - the ride includes 24 hours of all the nothing in Texas but it's still just hypnotic. One of the trips was somewhat bothered by a very rude family who brought along electronic games for their kids but no headphones and they refused to shut their door. Don't be like that! :)

[@chrisdobrowolski2783]

next time if the attendent does not help you with the rude person family/has the conducter of the train and tell him since sometimes the attendent do not tell the conductor and then between stations he can talk to the family and if not being properly they can be removed from the train I think by the conductor.

[@donnafebeeadonohamm7856]

You show wonderful helpful things about Amtrack. Thank You so much

[@MaggieTrudeau]

I"m a new viewer and you are adorbs AS WELL AS smart and thrifty. I love it.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Thank you so much!

[@odiecalodie]

Great Video. Something to add, if you are in a Superliner Sleeper and the train has a Dormitory Car for the crew, you can use their shower along with the downstairs shower in your car. The Dormitory Shower is upstairs towards the back.

[@tcmw779]

just a note Amazon and others have 1 to 2, and 1 to 4 (plug to outlets) available that may be more "packable" than a power strip i.e. they are ONE plug that connects to MULTIPLE outlets via a cord; therefore, you could "scrunch" it up somewhat in your luggage.

[@gypsy97feder94]

I have made numerous cross country train trips in my lifetime, and have loved every one of them. But you need to have an accommodating attitude - sometimes your train will be stopped for an hour or so to give way to Conrail (which owns the tracks). Just roll with the punches and enjoy the scenery and the people you meet.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Agree, attitude is everything!

[@lysaallman-baldwin7171]

Loved the tips and train shots! Very helpful. Thank you.

[@lisalu910]

Also note that the roomettes are slightly different on the Viewliner and Superliner. On the Viewliner, you have a toilet in the room which can be good/bad. If you're sharing a roomette with someone, it can be a little "awkward" to say the least (one person might need to step outside unless you knew one another VERY well!) Also, on the Viewliner, you have a window in the top bunk which makes it a little less claustrophobic.

[@bernadetterafio9794]

Thank you for tips & advices

[@robertwolfley9068]

I really love your videos I'm getting ready to take a Amtrak train probably in November and I appreciate all you said a lot of stuff I didn't think about

[@000amp1]

This video was very informative!! My husband and I just booked a roundtrip ticket to New Orleans in a roomette. We are on the Sunset Limited train. I hope it's a nice train! I've not travelled on Amtrak in over 30 years. Thanks for all the great tips!!

[@DannyA3579]

Looking forward to my big Amtrak trip in July/August. Mostly in coach but upgrade to roomette for Chicago to Los Angeles stretch. Hollywood, FL - Wash. DC Wash, DC - Chicago, IL Chicago, IL - Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles, CA - San Diego, CA

[@alvertacole6939]

Great information. I absolutely love the train and you gave me all the points to remember when I make my journey from east to west. I traveled from Detroit to Chicago to San Antonio and plan to do it again but will take advantage of the rooms. Just sit back and enjoy the landscape of our country. Thank you

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Glad it was helpful! We'd love to do that route sometime!

[@jamesrwakefield]

Great video! I am a regular on the Texas Eagle from Chicago to Dallas and back. Tip-if in a sleeper traveling with a companion then get your own roomettes if you can. More space for each of you and it does not cost any more or any less.

[@rosemarylyons7981]

This comment was a year ago, but I wondered about this. Two people can get two rooms for the same cost?

[@jamesrwakefield]

@@rosemarylyons7981 Hi! Yes you can. We always get our own roomettes. It doesn’t cost any more or less. This way you are not living on top of each other! Go for it!

[@ryangoldberg7721]

This is a good tip because I'm thinking of going to Los Angeles California from Chicago in 2023 to see my friend Andrew

[@suzettabrown1841]

This is going to be my first train ride from NY to Memphis TN with my mom..

[@Trainhead62]

As an experienced Amtrak rider such as her selves, I would just mention that there is a difference between a bathroom and a restroom on the train. Not to sound picky, but The Train has rest. There are no bathrooms on the train. There is a shower, but it does not have a commode. The difference between a bathroom and a restroom is a bathtub or shower along with a commode or water closet or toilet whatever term you prefer. I know it seems technical and picky but as a seasoned Amtrak traveler myself, I just thought I would share that subtle observation, there are restrooms!

[@sarahclark9923]

Great advice. It is so helpful to know what to expect.

[@JonSkinner1944]

Also, if you and your partner has mobility issues, asked during booking; in-person or over the phone about lower level roomettes 11, 12, 13, and 14 on Superliner equipment for Western US.

[@jackjones5314]

For the inset plugs, they sell a 4", or so, long extension cord. Easy to store. Also helps if you have to plug into a power strip next to a large block plug.

[@Royce88]

“They” meaning Amtrak sells this cord?

[@jackjones5314]

@Dana Lewis They, meaning lots of people, I got some from amazon years ago. Very handy.

[@YM-wj2dr]

Thank you thank you! My friend and I will be taking a train from Mass to San Diego CA in two months, so this info is appreciated.

[@rleeAZ]

AN outlet strip is part of my regular sleeper car kit. Provides power flexibility for everything.

[@randyr3021]

We're taking our 1st trip July 23, 2021 N'Awlins to Chicago. I can tell I'm going to become a massive train need AND because of you two, I'm gonna go on my 1st trip with an AMTRAK master's degree! Thank you so so SO much for your vlog. ps. Here's how NERD I already have become: It's June and I'm already half packed! And I'm playing this game of what else do I not need to pack, I call the Stuff Elimination Game! I just can't wait! Tiny toiletries in a one quarter Ziploc bag! All Aboard!!

[@jimmcnamee3230]

Thank You for all your videos and tips! Taking our 1st Amtrak next week. SW Chief, starting in Chicago, Santa Fe, Flagstaff …then return after 12 days in total….so anxious!

[@BlueLiminality]

Thank you so much for these videos. I am planning my first amtrak trip from NYC to Seattle and these videos have been invaluable.

[@ericschmidt6129]

Great video on what to expect in the Roomette. This helps us plan and prepare for an upcoming train trip.

[@dennishenderson4226]

She “nailed it”. Her advice was excellent!!! and matched most of my advice.

[@judegee9536]

Great tips. I travel by Amtrak often but book a roomette for an overnight trip. One thing I noticed is that I don t know where my room is located. Unlike when booking a seat on Acela, Amtrak doesn't show a seat/room chart.

[@Saved_by_Grace96]

Thank you for the tips! I loved taking the train last time I traveled, but I rode in coach. It was my first time taking Amtrak. Although it was more roomier than flying, I plan on booking a roomette next year when I plan on traveling back to Chicago from New Orleans.

[@debbiedunn4477]

These are so helpful. I'm going Amtrak next month and you've helped me so much

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Thanks have a great trip!

[@Mark-iv7np]

You give a very good presentation. A good day to you and I believe his name is Rob.

[@barbaralienhard3490]

Thank you so much. I appreciate all the information and always great something I may have missed before and will be helpful for our next Amtrak trip.

[@greeneggslamb9336]

I tend to be ready for bed on the later side. How late will they come and put your bed together?

[@divox9pqr]

I find that I generally over pack. Can you talk about that in one of your videos please.

[@phylmorgan4301]

God, me too! Need a video on that!

[@richardeshom4985]

Good idea. If Grounded Life hasn't made videos like this by the time you read this, then I would recommend searching for Rick Steves' material about packing light, in his case for Americans taking a trip to Europe. The basic principles for packing light are bound to be very similar. I would, however, pack certain extra items specifically for a train journey. Grounded Life has already made 'tips and tricks', 'mistakes we made', and 'everything you need to know before you go' videos, which together contain a fairly comprehensive list of rail travel essentials.

[@nellgrill3845]

The train does accept checked bags,. As far as on with u. Best a ""small"" back pack. Belly pack for $$ etc...

[@Teachmd03]

@groundedlifetravel yes can y’all PLEEEEEEASE do a video on travel packing? Your outfits looked so comfy, Allie, but I ALWAYS overpack 😩

[@debralabarge614]

Really like this pleasant lady

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Thank you!

[@russellcronk1224]

Thank you very much for all of your helpful tips. I will be riding Amtrak cross country. First and last will be Michigan Blue Water, then Empire Builder, and several days later, Coast Starlight followed by California Zephyr, and back to Blue Water. I am so excited, yet give me ideas on how to prepare for things

[@ariadnasuarez5731]

Thank you Alley,this is super helpful!!!

[@unclephil9319]

I finally see the difference between the roomette in the Superliner cars and the slightly better ones in the viewliners.

[@lisalu910]

Main difference being the window in the upper bunk on the Viewliner. Also, the toilet IN the roomette which can be good or bad depending on how you look at it.

[@jacquelynsanders9576]

Awesome presentation! Love the great tips and info. How are trains handling the social distancing?

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

They are booking less seats and the dining car is every other table.

[@MSN3487]

Thanks for the tip. Going on my 1st Roomette experience soon.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@pppaaattt4671]

So am I and looking forward to it .

[@dalewilson8476]

We love traveling on Amtrak, coach is ok for a day trip. And the roomette is ok for the daytime portion of your stay, but we found it to cramped at night..we survived,but our next trip will be about 3 days one way..so it’s the bedroom for that trip.

[@nettiewashington5168]

Hi Allie and Rob, I am trying to plan my very 1st Amtrak trip because of you. Is it more economical to do it myself or go through Amtrak travel?

[@sjohnson2329]

Best kept secret in travel. If you have the time, train travel (roomette) is relaxing, on or close to schedule, quiet, comfortable. -first class boards first -escort given -STRESS FREE TRAVEL Become an AGR (Amtrak Guest Rewards) member and accruing enough points may afford you free travel, in a roomette and, round trip. Tips not mandatory, however, attendants are available, accessible, amicable. Be patient as there may be shortage of employees. Enjoy the ride and rustic scenery of America's cities, suburban and rural areas.

[@scottmccloud2894]

Bring an extension cord with multiple plug end (6ft would suffice). Viewliner sleeper (east coast trains) are a much nicer roomette. Superliner (west coast trains) roomettes are small. I do not recommend unless sharing with a child. If full room is too much $$$, then consider getting 2 roomettes - either will vastly improve your travel experience. There is no WIFI on Superliners. So, if no cell service and you want to watch a movie - a DVD player may be desired. Remember, sometimes there are UNPLANNED delays, and something to watch will help kill the wait. For avid train fans, I like a RR scanner to listen to cross-talk from conductor or engineer.

[@tellemhowbeer3517]

Awesome vid,thanks!! Leaving montana to galveston soon

[@muffs55mercury61]

I'll be glad when COVID subsides so I can ride the Southwest Chief again to Arizona.

[@markakira8988]

Thank you for you effort in this.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Thanks for watching!

[@keeshah.5021]

I love you guys!

[@NatureOkie]

Private Alcohol is not allowed in coach. Mixed drinks can be purchased in the LOUNGE car lower level...then, enjoyed in the Lounge or at your seat. Water, Coffee, Tea, and Milk are free with dining. If traveling alone, the Roomette upgrade can sometimes pay for itself. (Ft. Worth to San Antonio) HYBRID TRIPPING: Book sleeper legs during the day, Coach during evening Get swapped at layover points, (smoke break stations,) to roomette upgrade If you’re lucky, you can snag two meals, a shower and change clothes, then switch back at next layover.(Requires Planning techniques).

[@robertmcglinchey3347]

When you book a railpass it’s only for coach but you can upgrade to sleeper if available - the conductor (or at the station) will sell you the upgrade for the portion available. Limited meals included. On a ship the steward gets 5% of the tix price. IDK anout the train. Ask. But meals are tipped at each meal at 15-20%. So if a couple has steak, wine and dessert $15 to $20 would be about right to put down. I plan to go coach Boston to Chicago, shower in Chicago ($25) then coach Southwest Chief and upgrade the last night and shower before de boarding at 8AM.

[@jeffmontero9242]

Can you do a review on a bedroom suite or have you my wife & I plan to fly to Florida from San Francisco Ca & take the train back is the bedroom suite much bigger the roomette looks a little small lol

[@blink56k]

The bedroom suite looks cool since I think it has its own bathroom.

[@doreenp632]

I used one from Springfield, MA to Utica and it was wonderful to have a loo right in my room as well as a sink.

[@ArcadeRevolution]

A lot of times I see people bring their own pillows and 1 time I asked why your own pillow and they said the provided ones weren't that comfy. They tie the pillow to the top of their carry on for easy transport

[@danettegundy5693]

Don’t forget to tip your attendant either after your trip or before!

[@xxpimpingaznxx]

I'm heading out in July, but what's an adequate tip amount for an overnight?

[@nellgrill3845]

If u want good service,. Tip as much as possible,. Any service u receive,. The staff remember u & treat u extra special...

[@jonhobbs7241]

You are so wonderful ,a natural speaker .are you a libra ? Just wondering. Haha.. thank u for the awesome tips ♥️🤗🧠my gf and I are looking in to doing a long train ride .so this absolutely helps .

[@angelat.8997]

Great video! My overall impression was that I’d feel a bit claustrophobic in a roomette. But there’s only one real way to find out. 😜

[@lisalu910]

I'm claustrophobic, and I did fine in there. On the Superliner roomette, you don't have a window on the upper bunk and I think it might even be a slightly shorter space above your head, so that can get a little "close." On the Viewliner you do have a window on the upper bunk which helps a lot. On the lower bunk, it's perfectly fine either way.

[@lanadrummond5542]

Went on Amtrak a few years ago to Reno. We were told do NOT wear flip flops. Wear a shoe or tight sandals due to the constant movement of the train. Flip flops can be a tripping or fall hazard

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

We recommend the flip flops for short trips to the bathroom from your roomette. Just a suggestion for quick nighttime trips.

[@PhilLin]

Yes, bring them so you can use the shower without touching the floor or using the bathroom in the night. However, be mindful when crossing between train cars because it can be dangerous! I would wear close-toed sandals such as Crocs instead.

[@richardeshom4985]

Might I recommend tight-fitting water slippers (i.e., "aqua socks")? They handle getting wet really well, will air-dry while being worn, provide a reasonable amount of protection against foot damage (and fungal infection), are lightweight and easy to pack, and last for years on end.

[@markallred1953]

I am just full of questions, here they are: (I may have missed the answers in your narrative. ) Are all of the roomettes sized for two occupants? Is there room to lay out travel bags inside the (Common? Gender-allocated) shower area to facilitate dressing (is there a private shower?)? Are there chairs in the roomette for all riders to sit beside the window? Can a table be positioned between them? Can draperies be pulled closed tightly enough to exclude outside light while sleeping? Is the roomette hired for the complete duration of a trip? What happens to the traveller and to checked baggage at train junctions? Is the whole car transferred to a new train for a new leg of the trip?

[@lynnbailey2385]

Two fit in a roomette, there is a private shower room in the car. It has a small bench and space to get dressed. There are 2 seats that face each other by the window with a table that folds out between them. We carry binder clips to hold the drapes closed.

[@dennishenderson4226]

The showers do not have room to layout a suitcase. I recommend smaller top loading bag(s) because you have to haul your roller bag up to you room and lay it out on one of the seats in the roomette. I did a one night round trip and put everything I needed for overnight in a small bag and my roller bag remained in the luggage area downstairs on the return trip. A downstairs roomette does give you easier access to you bag in the luggage area.

[@Supergeologist]

I bought a small pack of disposable 'Spa Slippers', you know the kind you get for free when you visit a spa or hotel. They're cheap and very versatile.

[@Taten]

Thanks for these useful tips!! Really appreciated. I have booked my roomette trip from Chicago to New Orleans in Sep for solo travel. May I check with you how about the tip to the attendant for entire 19 hrs trip? Is tip also required if having flexible menu on the dinner car? Thank you for your advice in advance. :)

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Glad it was helpful! Most people tip $5-10 per night per person and a few dollars per meal.

[@spark_6710]

Definitely bring more bottles of water 💧 Especially if you're elderly or with an elderly person ! As well as a heavy tea drinker like me !! 😅💜🥁🐉🎤🎶🚈🚉🚄💕💞

[@1313sp]

I'm curious about security in the roomettes or the rooms. No one seems to go over that. Can you lock them from the outside when you are not in the room??

[@steviearmstrong6357]

No.

[@edsonmorais5025]

Viajo com vocês Sou fã de carteirinha

[@marlahargrove5685]

Very informative.

[@kimryan3495]

Thank you, great advice.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Thanks!

[@roachtoasties]

I always travel with a short extension cord (about 6 feet), that has three plugs on one end and one of those two prong to three prong plug converters. I'm then good to go with whatever plug issues there are.

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

great idea!

[@roachtoasties]

@@GroundedLifeTravel Carrying an extension cord in my laptop bag also makes me the most popular person in the seating area of the airport. Outlets are often limited and maybe too far from the seats. "Can I borrow one of your empty extension cord plugs while you're seating here?" I always say "Sure!"

[@purpleroseh23]

Your videos are sooooooo informative. Im looking to travel from Los Angeles to Chicago. Is there enough room in the roomettes to bring luggage and either leave on the chair while sleeping in the top bunk or vice versa? If I don’t have to check I won’t.. I’ll just keep my bags with me

[@davanachase2372]

Just discovered you! I want to make an Amtrak trip now. Learning so much from you on how to have a better trip. Do have questions about bathrooms: are you talking about shared bathrooms with other travelers? Roomettes don't have bathrooms correct? Do shared bathrooms have showers?

[@joestill7802]

What about ice? Will the attendant bring it? Is it readily available self-serve?

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Yes, they'll bring it from the dining car to you

[@cierradavis4253]

Quick question - I’m planning to do a amtrak trip with my friends, but we’re coming from Hawaii and most likely planning to purchase items from different states we stop off at. The check in bags, are they secure on another train?? I don’t want to leave our bags in an area where anyone can have access to it.

[@johnnick5358]

what is a customary tip for the attendant after a multiple day journey?

[@davidmiyamoto8928]

Awesome Sauce. Thankyouverymuch

[@edsonmorais5025]

Experiência e talento naquilo que apresenta em seus vídeos Assisto todo dia Seu. Parceiro também é da mesma linha

[@NatureOkie]

The upper berth includes a limber net, (so you don’t roll off)

[@tomcody8184]

We are planning on taking the zephyr from SF to Denver in mid June. We will book a roomette. Any tips before we book. Right now it is $763 for us. One question, are we able to sit in empty coach seats during the trip or just the observation car seats?

[@jnuval]

Should I bring a blanket or are those provided?

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

There are blankets provided in the roomette but if you tend to get chilly then you may want an extra.

[@suzettabrown1841]

Are soda or juice provided at other times besides meals

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

Yes you can get them

[@daa4309]

Thank you so much, this was very helpful. Do y'all have experience with people traveling with disabilities. I now walk with a cane a leg brace and want to take a solo train trip soon and am looking for great options and destinations as a single woman?

[@hwiley8141]

I saw on one video they have accessible rooms, but I didnt see that option online. These rooms are near the doors, which is convient, but may be noisy.

[@katherinewilson1853]

@@hwiley8141 I saw it on their website. :)

[@CHOCKO895]

Question. Does the Roomette or bedroom have a small fridge?

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

There is no fridge but you can bring a small cooler.

[@headishome8452]

I so wanted to know this!!!

[@nellgrill3845]

No.

[@angelasmith257]

Great tips!is it fairly safe for single women traveling alone over nite?…would be my first trip alone so I’m nervous also is switching trains to get to ur destination difficult?

[@GroundedLifeTravel]

It is pretty safe, the conductors take safety seriously! And no, just ask an Amtrak employee and they will help you go to the right place

[@angelasmith257]

@@GroundedLifeTravel ty…wish me luck!

[@candysousley8969]

I was wondering my husband and I are not young LOL and neither of us could climb on a top bunk are there any rooms that we could both sleep like on a bottom bunk