Amtrak?

theholyrollers

Hi, anyone have experience traveling with a guitar and a bag on Amtrak? Their Terms & Conditions says that "Medium-sized instruments" includes guitars, but carry-ons over 28" are "oversized" and you must buy an additional seat for that. Is that correct?

For those that have ridden Amtrak, do you usually check your guitar (i.e., not carry it on)? If so, any recommendations or stuff I should know, like, definitely buy the travel insurance or anything?

Basically, I am worried, because I am a worrier.

Thanks!

Musical Instruments

Small musical instruments (flutes, small trumpets and harmonicas). Medium-sized musical instruments (guitars, trumpets and small saxophones). Oversized musical instruments (cellos, bass violins, bass saxophones and tubas).

• Carry-On: Allowed - up to 50 lbs. and 28" x 22" x 14". Oversized - no larger than 72" in height.  
• Checked: Allowed - up to 50 lbs. and 100 linear inches.
• Smaller instruments must be packed with the passenger's luggage to be adequately protected from damage.
• In lieu of a piece of baggage, medium-sized musical instruments may be transported for a $10.00 service fee.
• Instruments that do not fit in luggage racks will be considered oversize.
• Oversize instruments may only be carried onboard with the purchase of an additional full revenue seat.

Buco

I took the train to DiJ last two years. It was great. This year the trip back is ridiculously expensive, $200 Northampton to DC. Which then makes it $300 RT. That's way too much. Last year it was $180 RT. I loved taking the train. Large seats, cafe car has a decent selection and normal prices. Plenty of overhead space. Last year it was three of us and everyone had a guitar case and a carry-on or a backpack, no problem. Other passengers had no problem finding space for their stuff. Not everyone needed space either, a lot of people didn't have any luggage. I'm still going to keep an eye on ticket prices. I'd much rather take the train than drive.