Backpacking Across America in Coach

[TransitGeek]

So my wife is going to finally finish with school this spring, her long-coveted teacher's credential finally in her hands. To celebrate, we're planning a month-long train trip around the country. Current itinerary looks something like:

(Metrolink RIV-LAX), LAX-PDX-VAC-VIC, then ferry to SEA, then SEA-CHI-BUF, bus to Niagara Falls, Greyhound to Toronto and Montreal, then MTR-NYP-BBY-POR, rent a car and visit Acadia National park, then POR-BON-subway-BBY-WAS-NOL-ONA-local buses back to RIV.

It uses precisely 30 days and 12 segments (we'll pay for the ferry and buses BUF-TOW-MTR ourselves), with the time I've budgeted for sight-seeing- precisely the package offered by the USA Rail Pass. And yes, I've priced it- the rail pass is definitely the way to go. We'll save money by the time we hit Chicago.

Of course, this means we're going to be spending lots and lots of time in coach. I know this site has a penchant for recommending sleepers, but it just isn't in our budget. So I have some questions for the board.

What's the best way to stay fed on the cheap in coach?

I've never done an overnight trip. Tips on sleeping in coach?

Has anyone done a trip like this? Any advice?

Oh, and if you could buy a roomette in one and only one of these segments, which would it be? LAX-PDX on the Starlight, SEA-CHI on the Empire Builder, WAS-NOL on the Crescent or NOL-ONA on the Sunset? (I'm currently leaning towards SEA-CHI because it's the longest, but I figured I'd ask.)

 

[abcnews]

What you are doing makes a lot of sense to me, and I would think that you are really going to enjoy the trip. And you are right, If you tried to add too many legs with sleepers, you end up spending a small fortune, so choose a leg or two, based on the least costs per night...

Example - The possible problem with SEA - CHI (to purchase a roomette), may be that the upgrade cost - is too high, it may be one of the most expensive trains, not sure?. However, I've seen rather low prices for a Roomette on the Crescent - I think I saw that in your route. Also - the Coast Starlight, can be quite affordable at times. But you may find that the Empire Builder is quite expensive in peak season. The two nights could cost more than 3, or maybe even 4 nights on some other trains.

 

[Dan O]

So my wife is going to finally finish with school this spring, her long-coveted teacher's credential finally in her hands. To celebrate, we're planning a month-long train trip around the country. Current itinerary looks something like:

(Metrolink RIV-LAX), LAX-PDX-VAC-VIC, then ferry to SEA, then SEA-CHI-BUF, bus to Niagara Falls, Greyhound to Toronto and Montreal, then MTR-NYP-BBY-POR, rent a car and visit Acadia National park, then POR-BON-subway-BBY-WAS-NOL-ONA-local buses back to RIV.

What's the best way to stay fed on the cheap in coach?

I've never done an overnight trip. Tips on sleeping in coach?

Has anyone done a trip like this? Any advice?

Sounds like a great trip. I am not too far from you. Have always taken the San Bernardino metrolink to LA.

I have not been on a trip anything like what you are going to do (Have done a five week car trip but that's a different animal). I have been to CHI and back and we just ate snacks, fruit, etc but that was only a couple days at a time. Had some good meals at both ends of the trip before and after the trips. If you have some long stops and the train is on time you may be able to eat a meal at a restaurant near a station somewhere.

Sleeping on coach was a lot like sleeping in a reclining chair for me. I can do that no problem. I probably woke up a few times for a minute or two but that's not that unusual for me.

Enjoy,

Dan

 

[user 2160]

So my wife is going to finally finish with school this spring, her long-coveted teacher's credential finally in her hands. To celebrate, we're planning a month-long train trip around the country. Current itinerary looks something like:

(Metrolink RIV-LAX), LAX-PDX-VAC-VIC, then ferry to SEA, then SEA-CHI-BUF, bus to Niagara Falls, Greyhound to Toronto and Montreal, then MTR-NYP-BBY-POR, rent a car and visit Acadia National park, then POR-BON-subway-BBY-WAS-NOL-ONA-local buses back to RIV.

It uses precisely 30 days and 12 segments (we'll pay for the ferry and buses BUF-TOW-MTR ourselves), with the time I've budgeted for sight-seeing- precisely the package offered by the USA Rail Pass. And yes, I've priced it- the rail pass is definitely the way to go. We'll save money by the time we hit Chicago.

Of course, this means we're going to be spending lots and lots of time in coach. I know this site has a penchant for recommending sleepers, but it just isn't in our budget. So I have some questions for the board.

What's the best way to stay fed on the cheap in coach?

I've never done an overnight trip. Tips on sleeping in coach?

Has anyone done a trip like this? Any advice?

Oh, and if you could buy a roomette in one and only one of these segments, which would it be? LAX-PDX on the Starlight, SEA-CHI on the Empire Builder, WAS-NOL on the Crescent or NOL-ONA on the Sunset? (I'm currently leaning towards SEA-CHI because it's the longest, but I figured I'd ask.)

i did this with the rail pass 2 years ago by myself.

NYP -> WAS -> CHI(cardinal) -> AUS (4 nights) -> CHI -> SEA (2 nights) -> PDX (13 nights) -> SAC -> DEN (1 night) -> CHI -> WAS (Capitol Limited) -> BAL

You're lucky that you're doing it with somebody you know and don't mind cuddling up with

That was my main issue with sleeping in coach.

 

[the_traveler]

Your trip sounds great!

If it were me, and only upgraded on one segment, I would chose the Coast Starlight (CS)! The CS is the only train that offers the Pacific Parlour Car (PPC). The PPC is the old 1950's era lounge car that has those big comfortable overstuffed swivel seats!

The PPC is ONLY available to be used throughout the trip by sleeping car passengers!

 

[dlagrua]

I've seen coach passengers make a private cubicle around their seats by using blankets and curtain clips that they brought aboard. You are allowed to bring drinks (non-alcoholic only) snacks and food like sandwiches, or bread and such (like pate, dried salami etc) but the dining car is more convenient and offers hot food. If the budget permits I would also recommend that you try a sleeper on one leg of an overnight trip. These can be purchased (depending upon availablity) onboard at the low bucket price.

 

[Bob Dylan]

I don't like to do this but I agree with the_traveler :lol: ,if you can only afford one segment in a sleeper the Coast Starlite is THE one to book! If you book it on the right day and getthe low bucket it is a real deal since it is for 2 and includes all meals in the diner OR the PPC (worth it IMO), the wine and cheese party in the PPC etc. etc. If you can afford a little more and snag a low bucket on the Empire Builder :wub: , it definitely is worth it also, if the low bucket is less than $300 grab it and enjoy the ride!

 

[caravanman]

Hi,

That sounds a great trip. I am not sure that the rail pass will be valid from MTR though?

I would try to get a roomette on the Empire Builder myself, as it is nice to get two nights horizontal!

I have never been in a parlour car, so it may indeed be worth it on the CS just for that.

I have seen folk bring quite large cool boxes in coach.. giving a better choice of train food.. salad, cheese, houmous, fruit juice, etc.

Guess if you can find seats away from the stairwells, and away from the end doors, you should sleep better...

Bon Voyage, as they say in MTR,

Ed

 

[Guest]

"What's the best way to stay fed on the cheap in coach?"

Subway footlongs and a soft sided cooler with drinks.

"I've never done an overnight trip. Tips on sleeping in coach?"

Booze it up. Even though it is against the rules, if you are discrete with your own stuff they will never know.

Whatever you do, make sure to at least get a sleeper from ATL-NOL on the crescent. Sure it is during the day, but they are dirt cheap. A roomette can cost as little as $47 and that includes three meals for each person. It is cheaper than sitting in coach and eating in the dining car.

 

[Pastor Dave]

So my wife is going to finally finish with school this spring, her long-coveted teacher's credential finally in her hands. To celebrate, we're planning a month-long train trip around the country. Current itinerary looks something like:

(Metrolink RIV-LAX), LAX-PDX-VAC-VIC, then ferry to SEA, then SEA-CHI-BUF, bus to Niagara Falls, Greyhound to Toronto and Montreal, then MTR-NYP-BBY-POR, rent a car and visit Acadia National park, then POR-BON-subway-BBY-WAS-NOL-ONA-local buses back to RIV.

It uses precisely 30 days and 12 segments (we'll pay for the ferry and buses BUF-TOW-MTR ourselves), with the time I've budgeted for sight-seeing- precisely the package offered by the USA Rail Pass. And yes, I've priced it- the rail pass is definitely the way to go. We'll save money by the time we hit Chicago.

Of course, this means we're going to be spending lots and lots of time in coach. I know this site has a penchant for recommending sleepers, but it just isn't in our budget. So I have some questions for the board.

What's the best way to stay fed on the cheap in coach?

I've never done an overnight trip. Tips on sleeping in coach?

Has anyone done a trip like this? Any advice?

Oh, and if you could buy a roomette in one and only one of these segments, which would it be? LAX-PDX on the Starlight, SEA-CHI on the Empire Builder, WAS-NOL on the Crescent or NOL-ONA on the Sunset? (I'm currently leaning towards SEA-CHI because it's the longest, but I figured I'd ask.)

Admittedly it's been a while since I've done a long trip in coach. But I do have some thoughts from past trips that may be helpful. 1) Bring a backpack filled with snacks and, if you have a small cooler-bag bring that with drinks. It can save a boatload of $$ as opposed to visiting the snack bar every time you are hungry or thirsty. 2) Your ability to sleep in coach will be relative to your regular sleeping habits. Unless it is flat, I cannot sleep, so my coach experiences have been less than adequate. 3)If you are a reader bring along a couple of books. If you like puzzles bring along a crossword or suduko book. It will help pass the time when the scenery is mundane or it is dark. And, 4) embrace the unexpected. Delays, goofy passengers and OBS who are less than friendly just might be part of the trip. Laugh at these things and you'll be fine.

On a final note, congrats to your spouse on the teaching credentials. I went to school to be a music teacher and student teaching did me in. Teaching is among the most valued of professions, and the most difficult. Be proud of her calling and support her in her efforts.

 

[TransitGeek]

That sounds a great trip. I am not sure that the rail pass will be valid from MTR though?

Two very helpful call centre agents (who I find are most willing to help out if you call in the middle of the night- boredom perhaps?) confirmed that both VAC-VIC and MTR-NYP were covered by the rail pass. I was wary about the same thing, so I checked. Worst comes to worst, though, I'll pay for MTR-RSP and rail pass the rest.

On a final note, congrats to your spouse on the teaching credentials. I went to school to be a music teacher and student teaching did me in. Teaching is among the most valued of professions, and the most difficult. Be proud of her calling and support her in her efforts.

Teaching is kind of a constant in our family. Both of my parents are in elementary education- my mother a speech & language specialist, my father in special education. My brother wants to teach high school English. I'm working on my PhD in political science, and am in fact already teaching at the university. So she'll fit right in. She's on her first quarter of student teaching right now, and while it's destroyed any semblance of a life she had outside of school, she really does love it- and we're all proud of her. It's been a long road.

 

[the_traveler]

The Cascades and the Adirondack are Amtrak trains throughout their runs, so the whole run us covered by the Rail Pass. Only the Maple Leaf is different. It is operated by Amtrak in the US and by VIA Rail in Canada. Thus you could not use the (Amtrak) Rail Pass in Canada!

 

[Sam31452]

For me it was a:

NYP-CHS-SAV-BAL-WAS-PHI-BOS-WAS-CHI-WGL-SEA-OKJ-(actually with a ferry)-SFC-SAC-YOS-SAC-DEN-CHI-STL-LAX-GCN-ABQ-CHI-NOL-NYP

trip last year.

My advice: do it twice!

(so much about rhymes)

I probably don't need to mention that it was great!

I did only a few segments in Coach, but I enjoyed a good night's rest on the CHI-WGL (West Glacier) train.

I brought with me:

-earplugs

-a pair of extra socks

-a inflatable travel pillow (that will fit around your neck so you can relax your muscles)

-a sleeping mask

-a few gazillion more earplugs

For dining value it's definitely:

breakfast before lunch before dinner.

Never buy breakfast in the lounge car.

On the Empire Builder you should go for pancakes in the morning (the only train on which they still got' em), and maybe spend a few extra bucks on lunch and dinner

dining car menu

For sleeper buy: WAS to NOL or NOL to ONA, the atmosphere in Coach on the EB is quite quiet.

 

[the_traveler]

I don't like to do this but I agree with the_traveler :lol:

I like you more each day!

 

[TransitGeek]

For me it was a:

NYP-CHS-SAV-BAL-WAS-PHI-BOS-WAS-CHI-WGL-SEA-OKJ-(actually with a ferry)-SFC-SAC-YOS-SAC-DEN-CHI-STL-LAX-GCN-ABQ-CHI-NOL-NYP

trip last year.

I count 24 segments. Did you buy 2 rail passes?

That sounds like quite an impressive trip. Also, I've been meaning to take the Alameda-SF ferry. Almost did it last summer, but they don't take TransLink yet.

 

[Devil's Advocate]

-a inflatable travel pillow (that will fit around your neck so you can relax your muscles)

On the Empire Builder you should go for pancakes in the morning (the only train on which they still got' em)

I've never had the inflatable version of a travel pillow, seems like it would be a little uncomfortable compared to the usual stuffed style? As for the pancakes why is the EB the only train to still have them? I'd love to have freshly made pancakes on my local trips if it were still possible. Speaking of which, has the EB been able to capitalize on their "upgraded" services enough to keep them going indefinitely or is Amtrak likely to drop the EB back to a similar service level as other trains?

 

[Long Train Runnin']

-a inflatable travel pillow (that will fit around your neck so you can relax your muscles)

On the Empire Builder you should go for pancakes in the morning (the only train on which they still got' em)

I've never had the inflatable version of a travel pillow, seems like it would be a little uncomfortable compared to the usual stuffed style? As for the pancakes why is the EB the only train to still have them? I'd love to have freshly made pancakes on my local trips if it were still possible. Speaking of which, has the EB been able to capitalize on their "upgraded" services enough to keep them going indefinitely or is Amtrak likely to drop the EB back to a similar service level as other trains?

Seems like they will keep it up. They've now even begun to use china on the CS. If anything one could hope they will continue to expand the level of dining service beyond on the EB and CS.

 

[AlanB]

As for the pancakes why is the EB the only train to still have them? I'd love to have freshly made pancakes on my local trips if it were still possible. Speaking of which, has the EB been able to capitalize on their "upgraded" services enough to keep them going indefinitely or is Amtrak likely to drop the EB back to a similar service level as other trains?

Actually the EB only restored pancakes to the menu earlier this year. They've been off the menu for years. No doubt that restoration is due to the extra staffing that the EB runs with. It should be noted however that the price of having pancakes is the loss of RR French Toast on that train.

Regarding the second part of your question, the EB has the highest revenue of any long distance train, besting even the Auto Train. The AT wins in the loss per passenger mile at 9.3 cents whereas the EB comes in at 11.9 cente per pax/mile.

So clearly the upgraded service & extra amenities are helping to keep revenue up on the EB.

 

[Pastor Dave]

I don't like to do this but I agree with the_traveler :lol: ,if you can only afford one segment in a sleeper the Coast Starlite is THE one to book! If you book it on the right day and getthe low bucket it is a real deal since it is for 2 and includes all meals in the diner OR the PPC (worth it IMO), the wine and cheese party in the PPC etc. etc. If you can afford a little more and snag a low bucket on the Empire Builder :wub: , it definitely is worth it also, if the low bucket is less than $300 grab it and enjoy the ride!

In lurking and participating on this board, I've discovered several folk who have agreed with the _traveler. Seemingly it is not the greatest fault in life.. :lol:

 

[the_traveler]

In lurking and participating on this board, I've discovered several folk who have agreed with the _traveler. Seemingly it is not the greatest fault in life.. :lol:

That's because the_traveler is ALWAYS right - except when I'm wrong!

 

[Pastor Dave]

In lurking and participating on this board, I've discovered several folk who have agreed with the _traveler. Seemingly it is not the greatest fault in life.. :lol:

That's because the_traveler is ALWAYS right - except when I'm wrong!

To the_traveler. Thanks for making my day. Your comment had me laughing to the point of tears. Maybe you are wrong at times, but I hope you don't fall prey to actually admitting it :lol:

Dave