The perks of train travel abound including many discounts targeting those 50-plus yet rail travel remains a tourism-industry underdog.
We talked with leaders in the rail-travel industry for their tips and tricks.
Our Smart Guide to Train Travel, which will have you riding those rails like a pro.
Book Early
Want to snag the best train-travel deals?
In Europe, the booking windows vary from 30 days to six months, depending on the operator.
Fares are released 11 months before departure, and often rise with demand, he says.
Look out for any sales or promotions; Amtrak offers buy-one-get-one deals from time to time.
Seekoutdiscounts
Always check train-line websites fordiscountsbefore you book.
Amtrak also offers a 10 percent discount for seniors.
Canadas VIA Rail also runs special discounts throughout the year, including cost-saving options released every Tuesday.
Finally, if youre an AARP member, check out the discounts forrail travel.
There are deals with Collette, Grand European Travel and Vacations by Rail.
Moreaccessibilityoptions
Many rail lines have made strides in offering accessible travel options.
In the U.S., for example, Amtrak is increasingly improving the accessibility of its stations.
Accessible tickets can be booked online or via the Amtrak app.
Accessible room accommodations are also available for sleeper trains.
Besttraveldays
If your schedule is flexible, Stawski has some money-saving advice.
Business-heavy routes are pricier on weekdays, he says.
Leisure routes might be more expensive on weekends.
(Stawski adds that the day of the week you actually book the ticket doesnt matter.)
If capacity exceeds comfort levels, customers can change their ticket without incurring a fee.
(She notes that a fare difference may apply.)
you could earn points on your trips through Amtraks loyalty program, Amtrak Guest Rewards.
This switch makes it easier to redeem points quickly versus waiting to rack up enough for a train ticket.
Dont just hire any agent, though, says Jim Loomis, author ofAllAboard:TheCompleteNorthAmericanTrainTravelGuide.
A simple test can ensure that the agent understands train travel.
The difference is that there is no window in the upper berth on the Superliner roomette.
On the Viewliner, there is a window.
One option Johnston suggests for U.S. train travel is Amtrak Vacations, an Amtrak-specific travel agency.
That said, several Amtrak lines, including those in Canada, do not allow pets.
Animals are also not allowed in sleeper cars or first class.
Travelers with a disability can bring certified service dogs if needed.
Thats why Bob Johnston, a correspondent for Trains.com, suggests building extra time into your schedule.
