Changing rooms?

[HammerJack]

Quick question: I have a roomette booked on a Superliner, and I'd like to change the roomette I'm booked in; I'd like to try the bottom level for something different. I called to change the room, but the sales rep said there would be an increase in price, since the sales are going for a higher bucket than what I originally paid. Is this the standard practice, or was the sales rep incorrect?

 

[daybeers]

Quick question: I have a roomette booked on a Superliner, and I'd like to change the roomette I'm booked in; I'd like to try the bottom level for something different. I called to change the room, but the sales rep said there would be an increase in price, since the sales are going for a higher bucket than what I originally paid. Is this the standard practice, or was the sales rep incorrect?

You need to ask them to "modify" the reservation. There shouldn't be an increase in price for just changing the room with the same date, train, and endpoints.

 

[Ryan]

Precisely that. It can be done, but it takes an agent with the proper know-how. Call back until you get someone clueful, or ask to speak with a manager.

 

[me_little_me]

Precisely that. It can be done, but it takes an agent with the proper know-how. Call back until you get someone clueful, or ask to speak with a manager.

When I ask to speak to a manager about that kind of issue, I have always been transferred instead to a knowledgeable agent who gives me the new room at the same price in a matter of moments.

 

[1884Derby]

Called Amtrak today to change my roomette from downstairs to upstairs. I was told that would cost me $68, so I passed. The agent told me this was because of higher pricing for roomettes now compared to when I purchased. Travelling in october on Southwest Chief.

Is it worth trying to call again for another agent?!

 

[zephyr17]

Called Amtrak today to change my roomette from downstairs to upstairs. I was told that would cost me $68, so I passed. The agent told me this was because of higher pricing for roomettes now compared to when I purchased. Travelling in october on Southwest Chief.

Is it worth trying to call again for another agent?!

Yes, a knowledgeable agent will know how to change your room assignment without changing your price.

If you are an AGR member, I suggest you call the AGR line, which tends to have the most knowledgeable and experienced agents.

 

[launcher]

Just today I called and they would not change a room without charging the fare difference since a now-expired coupon had been applied at the time of sale. Seems to be the prevailing narrative. Lesson learned, won't book multiple rooms again without calling an agent.

 

[WWW]

It is unfortunate that Amtrak doesn't have a seat (room) selection graphic like the airlines to see what is available
and at what price level. When traveling with my companion full bedrooms are expensive - easier to book two
roomettes - BUT - with the idea that they will be across the aisle/passageway from each other.
Knowing my travel plans far enough in advance I go to the Amtrak ticket office and speak with the representative
who does have computer access to make the booking and selection at the same time (or suggest alternatives).
Not everyone has the luxury of being in a city area with an Amtrak staffed agent to assist.
If that is not the case maybe getting on your computer and opening two (or more) windows with all the pricing and
information needed and then calling the Amtrak 800 number and getting a game plan in order.
YES a difficult situation but who is going to help you better than yourself.

Once the bedroom/roomette is assigned like the airlines - there is no reassigning accommodations - there will be
no moving of guests/passengers from booked rooms unless because of change of equipment.
Book early for the best results - last minute you might contact the Conductor or Car Attendant for a solution.
Trains with multiple stops are not the best to work with - best if the room is open for the full length of the itinerary.

If not receiving the answer that is helpful or a solution - refer the transaction to a manager supervisor or lead agent
for a resolution.
Nothing available - consider trying back in a week or more (time be available) and try again - your reservation
record is monitored each time you contact Amtrak - the answer may still be NO but the details about the request
will still be on file and may help expedite things without repeating the whole process.

Cancel and outright rebook may be a solution as expensive as it is - what comfort level are you willing to pay for ?

Something to consider is that bedrooms have complimentary meals/beverages and in some cities lounge privileges
(While discussion of the some of this at this forum leaves much to be desired)
Maybe consider taking a coach seat for a portion of the trip and then the bedroom - see if that works !
For the one time traveller not much to game the system here but for the routine Amtrak regular open the play book
for all the options - - - - -