#12 We ride the train weekly, and here are the 4 things I learned about saving on tickets

A train approaching the platform

  

        Since eight months ago, my family has been riding the Amtrak when traveling between Maryland and New York City (NYC). Whether my wife travels back home from NYC or I (sometimes with my son) visit her in the city, I make all the reservations for the tickets. Many factors affect ticket prices, such as the day and time of the week, holidays, your itinerary, and when you buy it. However, here are the four money-saving tips I learned when purchasing tickets. Disclaimer: The prices you see in this blog are estimates only. Check Amtrak's website for accurate pricing.

A nice view outside and comfortable seats

 Buy your ticket online.

       Never purchase a ticket at the train station unless it is an emergency or a necessary last-minute modification of your trip. Buying a ticket at the station will cost you more than 500% of the price bought online. For example, a one-way ticket from the BWI Station (near Baltimore, MD) to NYC's Penn Station, when purchased online, costs only about $35. But, on the other hand, a ticket purchased at the station of the exact itinerary will cost you around $200!

Book early.

      If you are sure you are traveling, buy your ticket as early as possible. The earlier, the better. For instance, if I want to travel to New York City in January 2022 and buy the ticket now, the one-way cost is just $26. If I buy it days before my trip, it can cost up to $173!

Be mindful of the day and time of your travel.

      If your business or personal trip is flexible, select midweek (e.g., Wednesday) instead of weekends. Also, travel either early morning, midday, or very late at night, if you can. Finally, avoid traveling during holidays. If you have to, again, buy your ticket online as early as possible.

Waiting area at the Moynihan Station (NYC)

Consider signing up for the guest rewards program.

      When you go to Amtrak's 'deals' page, you will see many discount programs. For instance, they have a 40-50% discount if you book early, buy-one-get-one-free, and other deals for particular groups (e.g., military, student, children, and seniors). I also recommend signing up for their rewards program so you can earn points every time you travel. Accumulated points can give you free train tickets. If you are a frequent rider, I highly recommend applying for their credit card for a minimal annual fee, earning you 20,000 points. That is equivalent to 9-10 free train tickets, plus other coupons such as free upgrade (i.e., coach to business class), free companion, and other discounts. You will also have free access to their VIP guest lounge, giving you a free snack, better internet connection, more comfortable couches, and fewer people.  

        After riding with Amtrak for several months, I realized how affordable and convenient it is to access the train service. No wonder Amtrak was the preferred daily mode of transportation of the current President of the United States when he was a state senator. He claimed he made more than 8,000 roundtrips from his hometown in Delaware to his Senate Office in Washington DC!

Figuring out who's taller while waiting for our train