Auto train

[pplasky]

We are thinking of taking the autotrain in august. could someone give me an idea of a good price. We are 2 adults, 3 children and 1 minivan. The AAA price quoted on the website is $918. Just wondering if this is worth booking or if I should wait and see if it goes down. Thanks.

 

[pepe of ohio]

We procrastinated once, waiting for regular Amtrak rates to go down, they usually run a 35% discount few years back, and that year they had no sales. By waiting, the train was full, no seats. I saved nothing and had to drive to WDW, which I hate and used the train to elliminate. No more waiting for me, pick my resort, pick my dates and call Amtrak for tickets, all in one day.

 

[Windjammer]

We got just about the same rate ($970 (AAA) for two adults, four children and a minivan for August. Last year we booked it at this price and then Amtrak came out with a discount that reduced the fare to $860 or so. We cancelled the original reservation and booked at the discounted fare. There was no penalty.

Two years ago we waited for the discount ( full price for first person, half price for second, and third travels free) before booking. Note, however, that sometimes the discounted fares have cancellation panalties or other restrictions, while the regular fares generally do not.

If you are to book it at the $918 rate don't have the tickets issued, because if you do then there is a charge for turning in the tickets and having new ones issued.

Amtrak might or might not put out a discounted fare. If it does not then the regular fare will likely increase as time goes on.

Hope this helps. If you have any other questions please don't hesitate to ask.

Steve

 

[madhouserobey]

booked 1/29 for oct trip and paid 694.75 for 2 adults and 3 kids ,family bedroom and suv . this is one way of course from lorton to sanford.

 

[pplasky]

Thanks for the replies. If anyone else has input, we are still deciding. We were thinking of flying and renting a car, but that is if we can get decent airfare. We know we can rent a standard suv for $150, so if we can get airfare for about $850, we may take that route. It just seems like $900 for the autotrain is a bit much, but we have never used it and have nothing to compare it to.

 

[AshAlytwins]

We got a rate of $1,100 for a famuily of 4..2 adults and 2 14 yearolds, with a family bedroom and a regular car, that is both ways. Always book early to get the best rate. The Auto train is so fun to do and it gives the kids time to get that home work done and the food is always delicious!!