AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (2023)

Taking the Amtrak auto train to Florida from the northeast is an option for traveling to the Sunshine State. But is it worth it? What are the pros and cons? Is it really cheaper to take the train? This post explores these questions and shares the author’s experience traveling on the Amtrak auto train from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida.

AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (1)

Table of Contents

Why take the Amtrak auto train to Florida?

The main reason travelers take the Amtrak auto train to Florida is because they prefer not to drive. We go back and forth from New York to Miami every once in a while and the driving can be exhausting. Traffic on the I-95 can be daunting and just sitting in a car for hours on end is exhausting. Friends had taken the auto train and recommended it. “Let’s check out the auto train,” we said. So we began our research and explored options on the auto train.

Auto train cost, tickets and reservations

I have to admit I had a bit of trouble nailing down the price of my ticket. I first identified what I thought was a pretty good price of $89 for coach. A coach seat is one which reclines a bit but not totally flat. You can doze on it but it will be like sleeping on a plane, not very restful. I thought the price seemed reasonable but when I plugged in the date on the Amtrak site, the price shot up. After trying several different dates, I did find a $89.00 coach fare but that was waaaaay in the future. The lesson here is, a good way to save money is to book as far in the future as possible. The $89.00 does not include the price of transporting the car which is an additional $200.00.

(Video) Auto Train to Florida - What's It Like?

The prices for other accommodations also depends on how far in advance you book. The closer the date, the more expensive the fare, similar to what some airlines do.

You can buy your tickets online or at the station.

From a cost perspective, it is not necessarily cheaper to take the train, although it could be. There are many factors to consider. Will you go coach or sleeper accommodation? If you drive, will you linger and take a leisurely, several-day road trip from the northeast to Florida or try to make it in one non-stop drive?

For stark comparison purposes, we were two people in a “roomette” on the auto train. We paid $742.00 for 2 people to go from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida. That’s $542.00 plus $200.00 for the car. We also had a bicycle attached to the back of the car. We were originally coming from New York so we had to drive to Lorton to get on the train. That cost needs to be factored in if you are coming from somewhere other than Lorton. For this comparison, however, we’re just starting from Lorton.

Had we driven from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida, the cost for two people would have been about $350.00 including gas and tolls, one hotel night and food. That’s a $392.00 difference compared to the auto train. Of course there’s the wear and tear of the car and of the passengers. For us it was worth it for the experience but we wouldn’t do it every time we take that route.

Amtrak auto train route.

The train travels non-stop from Lorton, Virginia in the Washington DC area to the city of Sanford, in Central Florida just outside of Orlando, a major tourist destination since that is where Disney World is located. The return route is in the opposite direction, Sanford, FL to Lorton, VA.

How long does the journey take?

The trip takes 17 hours and 29 minutes. That’s just the travel time and does not include the time involved in loading the car into the train at the departure point or unloading it at the destination.

(Video) Amtrak Auto Train: Orlando, FL to Washington, DC

AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (2)

Cars begin loading at 11:30 and loading closes at 2:30. Once you get to the loading area you leave everything in your car except your valuables and a bag or two for what you will need on the train. Then you check-in in the waiting area and are given your ticket to board, dinner menu and dinner time. You wait in the waiting room until boarding. The train actually leaves at 4: pm.

On the other end, it takes another good chunk of time to unload all the cars. Once we arrived in Sanford, it took us an hour and a half before our car was unloaded.

As can be expected, the first cars to load will be the last to unload. For that reason, it makes sense to load your car closer to the loading deadline of 2:30. Just to be on the safe side, being on line at 1:30 to load your car, would mean you won’t have to wait so long to receive it on the other end.

Accommodations on the Amtrak auto train.

Amtrak provides several options for the Lorton, Virginal to Sanford, Florida route. The first is “coach.” This is the most economical option and doable for the almost 18 hour ride but you are still sitting all this time so, if you can afford it, upgrade.

The next option is basically two coach seats in a tiny compartment that pull out to form a bed. The shelf above it pulls down to create a bunk bed so there are two beds in this compartment euphemistically called a “roomette.” This is suitable for two people (two people who really like each other because it’s very small) or one person who wants to sleep in a bed vs a reclining seat. The bathroom is in the hall and shared with other passengers.

Another option is a “family room” suitable for 2 adults and 2 kids. It has private bathroom and shower.

The final option is a “bedroom” which is twice the size of a roomette with in-room bathroom, sink and shower. This is for people who want ample space.

(Video) Auto Train Road Trip to Orlando

It’s difficult to get a good photo of the compartments because they are so small. The dimensions of the roomette is 3’6″ X 6’6″. We chose the roomette and although yes, it’s cramped, we were fine for the length of the trip.

All sleeper accommodation options come with towels, linens, turndown service, meals, access to the lounge and dining car. There is free wi-fi throughout.

Our cabin attendant, Keith, was very pleasant asking when would be a good time for our turn-down service and answering general questions about the journey.

It is a pleasant ride to Florida as you sit by the window and see the marshes, rivers, farms and towns go by. This was certainly more pleasant than driving and constantly focusing on the road and traffic.

AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (3)
AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (4)

Auto train menu, dining car and lounge.

When you check in you are given a choice of different times to have dinner in the dining car. We chose 7PM. I wanted to check out the lounge so I went there and had a pre-dinner cocktail. The price was a reasonable $8.00. The lounge was inviting with good music – Motown -piped in.

AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (5)

At dinner the menu was certainly adequate with options of steak, fish, chicken, and pasta. All meals come with wine, non-alcoholic beverages and dessert. There is also a children’s menu. All meals are included in the price of a ticket if you choose a sleeper accommodation. If you chose coach, the meal must be paid for separately and you eat in your seat although we were told that in future, holders of coach tickets could eat in the dining car.

(Video) #AmtrakHowTo Ride the Auto Train

AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (6)

Breakfast was a “grab and go” affair of coffee, cereal, milk and juice with a little pound cake eaten in the lounge or at your seat. Again perfunctory and fit for purpose.

Tips for enjoying your Amtrak auto train journey,

  • Bring your own pillow or blanket, the beds are a bit hard.
  • Download movies and/or a book. Remember the journey is over 17 hours.
  • Bring snacks. The meal selection is not large so you might want a snack after the food car closes.
  • Bring comfy slip on shoes or flip flops to make bathroom runs.
  • Needless to say, if you are in a roomette where the seats turn into bunk beds, the person who uses the bathroom the most at night should be in bottom bunk.

Arriving the night before

If you are arriving at Lorton from a different destination and don’t want to be rushed in order to make the loading time, you may want to consider spending the night in Lorton. There is plenty of accommodation in Lorton, Virginia. We stayed at the Lorton Holiday Inn Express which was 7 minutes away from the train station.

  • AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (7)
  • AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (8)

There are also tons of attractions in the area. We visited the old Lorton reformatory which has now be transformed into artist studios called The Workhouse Arts Center which you can visit to see the artists at work and performing. The complex also houses the Lucy Burns Suffragist Museum that tells the story of how women fought for the right to vote. The museum is very well curated and interesting. Behind the museum are the cells where the suffragists were imprisoned and tortured for demonstrating in front of the White House. The museum is free but the prison cells have a $5.00 entrance fee.

We visited attractions in the Lorton area because we didn’t want to travel too far from the Amtrak auto train station, but the area around Lorton is packed with things to do. Visit Fredericksburg, Virginia, an hour away if you love Civil War history. Washington DC is only 30 minutes away. DC is a city you could spend a lifetime in and not get bored.

If you ae going further south beyond central Florida to Miami with its trendy and eclectic Miami neighborhoods or South Beach, that’s an additional 3 and a half hours. Of course there are also tons of cool things to do in the national parks and cities near Miami and the beaches in the area.

What are YOUR thoughts on the Amtrak auto train to Florida? Have you been? Was it a good option for you? Let us know in the comments.

AMTRAK AUTO TRAIN TO FLORIDA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO - Travels with Talek (9)
(Video) The Amtrak Auto Train experience PART 1

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FAQs

What can you take on Amtrak Auto Train? ›

Pack a Carry-on Bag.

Pack your car like your suitcase. But be sure to bring a carry-on bag for your trip. The Auto Train has no checked baggage service and you will not have access to your car during the journey. Any valuables should not be left in your vehicle.

What do you need to bring to Amtrak? ›

Valid Photo ID Required

Purchasing documents with a stored eVoucher or Transportation Credit. Traveling as a Pass Rider (active or retired) Storing baggage at stations. Checking baggage (including firearms)

How does Amtrak Auto Train work? ›

Simply pack your car with everything you need for your trip between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington DC) and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando) and leave the driving behind. Once you're onboard you can break out the cards, enjoy a meal and binge-watch your favorite series.

Should I bring a blanket on Amtrak? ›

Some items are allowed in addition to your two bags

Travel necessities like pillows, blankets, computer cases or medical devices are allowed.

How long does it take to unload cars from Auto Train? ›

Waits of more than 2 hours sometimes occur, but are relatively rare. The first autos usually start coming off the carriers about 20 min. after you get off the train. If it takes 2 hours to get them all off, the median time is a little over an hour.

Can I bring my own food on Amtrak? ›

You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars. Personal food and beverages are allowed in the upper level of Superliner Sightseer Lounges.

What should I wear on Amtrak? ›

Wear Comfortable Clothing

For the most enjoyable experience, especially during a long-distance journey, you'll want to wear clothing that is super comfortable, along with warm socks. Oftentimes, the train cars can get cold, even if you're not seated by the doors that connect the cars together.

Does Amtrak search your bags? ›

They've targeted carry-on baggage such as backpacks as well as typical checked baggage items. Passengers tell stories of being awakened on a stop and being searched right there at their seats.

How early should you arrive to an Amtrak? ›

Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).

How much is a bedroom on the Auto Train to Florida? ›

This is the only such service in the U.S. and eliminates nearly 900 miles of driving between the Northeast and Florida.
...
Private Rooms on Auto Train on Sale for as Low As $129.
Limited Time Fares*One travelerTwo travelers^
Bedroom$329$389
*Plus the cost of your vehicle ^Double occupancy required for Roomettes and Bedrooms
2 more rows
7 Dec 2021

How fast does Amtrak Auto Train go? ›

Auto Train is an 855-mile (1,376 km) scheduled daily train service for passengers and their automobiles operated by Amtrak between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.), and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando). Auto Train is the only motorail service in the United States. 50.3 mph (81.0 km/h) (avg.)

Does a purse count as a carry-on Amtrak? ›

personal items do not count toward the carry-on baggage limit. Each passenger on board the train; each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and 28 x 22 x 14 inches.

Does Amtrak give free snacks? ›

Enjoy the Journey

Enjoy an upgraded experience with extra perks such as guaranteed seating, free snacks and drinks, a dedicated attendant, and more.

Where do you put your luggage on a train? ›

Luggage should be stored in the overhead luggage racks, under the seats and in the luggage compartments throughout the train. On some longer distance trains, it may be possible to store luggage in a separate area of the train.

Does Amtrak have free water? ›

50+ Year Amtrak Rider

Yes, Potable Water is Available in the Coaches but as you say putting a Flavor Additive in it helps overcome the less than Thrilling Taste! In Sleepining Cars Bottled Water is Avaialble for Free and if you Eat in the Diner Meals include Coffee,Tea,Milk or Water!

What should I wear on a train? ›

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Options include ultra-stretch chinos for men, high-rise black leggings for women, and slippers for those late-night trips to the bathroom on an overnight train. It's always a good idea to wear layers in case the temperature on the train is too hot or cold for your taste.

Can you leave luggage in your car on the Auto Train? ›

Pack a carry-on bag.

Pack your car like your suitcase. But be sure to bring acarry-on bag for your trip. The Auto Train has no checked baggage service and you will not have access your car during the journey. Any valuables should not be left in your vehicle.

Are there TVs on Amtrak trains? ›

In short, only the Viewliner Sleeper cars – private rooms that are only available on some trains – have a TV. The screen is very tiny, and it is not connected to any kind of cable or satellite service. Instead, Amtrak preloads these TVs with a small selection of three or four movies from which you can choose.

Does the Auto Train make stops? ›

While there's a stop to change crews late at night, the train makes no stops for passengers to embark or disembark along the way. It's a straight shot that clocks in around 14 hours, though you're likely to be on the train for closer to 17 hours total.

Can you talk on the phone on Amtrak? ›

A great way to travel and really get to see the country, while it is fun, there are some Amtrak travel tips to be aware of. Two common questions asked are can you bring food on Amtrak and can you talk on the phone on Amtrak. Yes and yes!

Can I bring my own beer on Amtrak? ›

We serve alcoholic beverages onboard trains in most Dining, Lounge, and Café Cars. You may bring aboard your own private stock of alcoholic beverages subject to the following limitations: You may consume private stock alcoholic beverages only in Sleeping Car accommodations for which you have a valid ticket.

How many bags are you allowed on Amtrak? ›

You + Two Bags = No Extra Charge

Unlike many transportation options, traveling with Amtrak is twice as nice with our generous baggage policy. When you travel with us, you can carry-on two free pieces of luggage. Each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and needs to be 28 x 22 x 14 inches in size.

How much does food cost on an Amtrak train? ›

Meals in the dining car on Amtrak are included for sleeper car passengers. You are provided with breakfast lunch and dinner, whichever apply to your journey as well as water, soft drinks, juice and coffee. Other meal and snack options are available in the cafe, prices range from $3 to about $10 per meal.

How do you prepare for a train? ›

The following 10 tips are some of the most commonly recommended to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable first-time rail journey!
  1. ARRIVE EARLY. ...
  2. CHECK EXCESS BAGGAGE. ...
  3. BE COMFY. ...
  4. MOVE AROUND AND EXPLORE. ...
  5. GET A GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP. ...
  6. KEEP YOUR CAMERA HANDY. ...
  7. BRING SNACKS. ...
  8. UNPLUG (BUT BRING A CHARGER)
26 Jul 2020

What can you not bring on a train? ›

The following items are prohibited onboard the train: non-service animals, firearms and ammunition, hover boards, corrosive or dangerous chemicals and materials, incendiaries, martial arts and self-defense items, archery equipment, devices containing propellants, sharp objects, and similar items.

Does Amtrak have assigned seating? ›

Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation. You may change your assigned seat and choose a different seat at any time after your booking is complete by viewing your reservation in the Amtrak app or on Amtrak.com. There is no fee to change your seat.

How does Amtrak boarding work? ›

1) How do you board a train? In general, once one knows on which track a train will arrive, one goes to the adjacent platform and waits. When the train arrives, the doors will open and people who need to disembark will get off. Then you go through the open door and hop on the train.

Can you sit anywhere on Amtrak? ›

Put in your city and state and we'll do the rest. You get to pick your seat because there are no seat assignments, and there are no middle seats.

Can you get off a train before your stop and get back on? ›

Yes, you can break your journey while travelling with an Anytime Single or Return ticket. This means you can get off the train at any connecting stop and leave the station, before boarding a later train to complete your journey.

Can you board Amtrak at a later stop? ›

Technically, this is not allowed. The Amtrak Terms of Transportation states: If you do not board your train as booked, your entire reservation is subject to cancellation.

What is the cost of a bedroom on Amtrak? ›

And now for a limited time, a trip in the comfort of a private room starts at just $99 each way, plus the cost of your vehicle.
...
Private Rooms on Amtrak Auto Train Now Available for as Low as $99.
Limited Time Fares*One travelerTwo travelers^
Bedroom$249$299
Coach$59$118
*Plus the cost of your vehicle ^Double occupancy required for Roomettes and Bedrooms.
1 more row
12 Jan 2021

Is Auto Train cheaper than flying? ›

Train travel is often cheaper than flying, in part because you can generally take more with you before paying extra baggage fees. It can also be more convenient and relaxing than driving, especially if you'd be driving in an unfamiliar place or driving for many hours nonstop to get to your destination.

What is the difference between a roomette and a bedroom on Amtrak? ›

Each bedroom has the capacity of two adults (with an option for a third), one to two suitcases and are 6'6” x 7'6”. Unlike roomettes, our bedrooms also have an in-room toilet, shower and a sofa that converts to a bed. Travelers looking to stretch out and upgrade from our roomette should explore our bedroom option.

What kind of seats does Amtrak have? ›

Coach class is offered on every Amtrak train and features wide, reclining seats with ample legroom, no middle seat option and at-seat trays, reading lights and electric outlets. Restrooms are located in each car.

How many seats are on an Amtrak train? ›

Average number of seats per Amtrak train
TrainAverage seats per train
Capitol Corridor314
Carolinian331
Cascades261
Downeaster290
44 more rows
24 Oct 2014

How many cars does Amtrak Auto Train hold? ›

An Amtrak official said each departure can accommodate up to 300 vehicles, though passenger fares usually sell out before vehicle capacity is reached. At the end of your train journey, be prepared to remain seated as crews disconnect the passenger carriages from those transporting vehicles.

What can you not bring on a train? ›

The following items are prohibited onboard the train: non-service animals, firearms and ammunition, hover boards, corrosive or dangerous chemicals and materials, incendiaries, martial arts and self-defense items, archery equipment, devices containing propellants, sharp objects, and similar items.

Can I bring my own food on Amtrak? ›

You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars. Personal food and beverages are allowed in the upper level of Superliner Sightseer Lounges.

Does Amtrak search your bags? ›

They've targeted carry-on baggage such as backpacks as well as typical checked baggage items. Passengers tell stories of being awakened on a stop and being searched right there at their seats.

Does a backpack count as a personal item Amtrak? ›

Each passenger may bring onboard two pieces of carry-on luggage (this includes bicycles), plus two personal items, including small bags, backpacks, laptops, and purses.

Where do you put your luggage on an Amtrak train? ›

Carry-on and personal items must be kept with you, stored in overhead racks, under seats or designated baggage areas.

What should I wear on Amtrak? ›

Wear Comfortable Clothing

For the most enjoyable experience, especially during a long-distance journey, you'll want to wear clothing that is super comfortable, along with warm socks. Oftentimes, the train cars can get cold, even if you're not seated by the doors that connect the cars together.

Does Amtrak have free water? ›

50+ Year Amtrak Rider

Yes, Potable Water is Available in the Coaches but as you say putting a Flavor Additive in it helps overcome the less than Thrilling Taste! In Sleepining Cars Bottled Water is Avaialble for Free and if you Eat in the Diner Meals include Coffee,Tea,Milk or Water!

Can you talk on the phone on Amtrak? ›

A great way to travel and really get to see the country, while it is fun, there are some Amtrak travel tips to be aware of. Two common questions asked are can you bring food on Amtrak and can you talk on the phone on Amtrak. Yes and yes!

How early should I arrive for Amtrak? ›

Arriving at the Station

Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).

How many bags can you take on an Amtrak train? ›

You + Two Bags = No Extra Charge

Unlike many transportation options, traveling with Amtrak is twice as nice with our generous baggage policy. When you travel with us, you can carry-on two free pieces of luggage. Each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and needs to be 28 x 22 x 14 inches in size.

Does Amtrak have assigned seating? ›

Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation. You may change your assigned seat and choose a different seat at any time after your booking is complete by viewing your reservation in the Amtrak app or on Amtrak.com. There is no fee to change your seat.

How does Amtrak boarding work? ›

1) How do you board a train? In general, once one knows on which track a train will arrive, one goes to the adjacent platform and waits. When the train arrives, the doors will open and people who need to disembark will get off. Then you go through the open door and hop on the train.

Can I bring full size shampoo on Amtrak? ›

Toiletries - No need to deal with tiny 3-ounce containers when you pack your luggage for Amtrak - feel free to bring along your full-sized products if you have space.

Is there a security check on Amtrak? ›

There are some things you need to know when riding the rails, where the rules are a little different from air travel. Amtrak advises passengers to arrive at the station 45 minutes before departure. Unlike commercial air travel, rail passengers do not undergo intensive security screenings.

Does Amtrak charge for bags? ›

Each traveler can check up to 4 bags (2 free and 2 at $20 per bag). Size/weight limitations apply.

Videos

1. Roomette on Amtrak auto train
(Travels with Talek)
2. 5 Things To Bring on Your AMTRAK TRIP -- Stay Comfortable, Healthy, and Entertained on the Train
(Rachael Martin)
3. The Auto-Train and Its Walt Disney World Parallels: A Dip Into the Archive 13
(StingrayTom's Florida)
4. All About Amtrak's Auto Train
(Amtrak)
5. Amtrak Tips And Tricks | Beginners Guide
(Grounded Life Travel)
6. AMTRAK ROOMETTE Everything You Need to Know 2021 // Detailed Room Tour, Shower, Food and More
(Just Adrift)
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