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Amtrak’s Coach class is a great budget-friendly regional and long-distance train travel option. It’s perfect for those who want to save on travel expenses. Coach class offers no middle seats, a convenient luggage rack above your seat, and power outlets, making your rail journey comfortable and relaxing.

Coach class is standard for Amtrak regional trains, but long-distance trains offer more legroom and additional comfort and offer an alternative to sleeping accommodations. Coach class is not available on Amtrak’s Acela; the base for those trains is business class.

When I first started riding Amtrak, I exclusively used coach class to travel coast to coast!

This article will cover the basics to help you start your train journey soon!

My experience with Amtrak coach class

Many of my Amtrak adventures were in Amtrak coach class on both regional and long-distance trains.

I am 6’2″ and about 210 pounds (or trying to be), and I find Amtrak coach class comfortable for watching the world go by while relaxing and working. Sleeping may not be as comfortable as a room, but it is doable for a night or two. If you sleep well in a chair, you will do great.

Because Amtrak uses different equipment across the system, experiences can vary from what I have included. This article does not cover Acela’s trains because Acela does not have a coach class but business and first classes.

Travels with Kev’s Amtrak Coach Class podcast

Why you should or shouldn’t book Amtrak Coach Class?

While you may pick coach seats for many reasons, here are four main reasons why you should.

Why you should book Amtrak coach class

1. Some regional trains only offer coach classes.
2. You like to ride in coach class
3. You want to save money on trips, especially on shorter trips.
4. The only seats left for the train you are looking at are coach seats.

Whatever the reason, coach class can be an excellent way for some to travel to the USA via rail, especially when you are on a budget.

Why you shouldn’t book a coach class ticket

On the other hand, there are a few reasons why you might not want coach seating, such as:

• Do you need or enjoy more personal space?
• Do you want to sleep horizontally?
• Seats are sold out of coach class.
• The cost is less critical.

If any of the above apply to you, consider Amtrak’s Business class or sleeping accommodations if they are available on your train.

What equipment does Amtrak use on their trains?

Regional Trains

Most regional trains use single-level coach cars with everything on one level, but some use bi-level cars with bathrooms on the lower level and some seating.

If your train is not on the following list, more than likely, it is a single-level train, but if it is on this list, it uses bi-level equipment.

Amtrak regional trains with bi-level (two-story) cars.

Capitol Corridor*	San Joaquin*
Illini*	Saluki*
Pacific Surfliner

Long-distance trains

All trains that start or end at New York Penn Station use single-level Amfleet II coach cars and Viewliner sleepers. All other long-distance trains use Superliner equipment.

Amtrak coach class seat pitch

Seat Pitch is the distance from any point on one seat to the same point on the seat in front or behind it. This measure is not the measurement of “legroom,” but it gives you an idea of how much space you should expect.

Keep in mind this information is average and varies based on the equipment.

• Amtrak Long-distance trains have a seat width of 23 inches (58 cm) and a pitch of 50–52 inches (127–132 cm).
• Amtrak Regional trains, on average, have a seat width of 23 inches and offer a pitch of 39 inches.

Luggage & Storage

There are a few places to place your things as you roll down the rails. Not all trains offer checked bag service, so if you need to carry on, there are places to put your things.

All coach cars have overhead storage shelves and luggage racks; Superliner cars have them on the lower level; in single-level cars, the luggage rack is on one end.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are at one end of Viewliner and on the lower level of Superliner cars. There is often more than one per car, with one being an accessible restroom.

Amtrak coach-class amenities

Every Amtrak accommodation offers something different; coach class gives you an economical way to travel.

Coach class includes:

Here are a few things the Amtrak coach class provides.

• At the seat
  • The average seat width is 23 inches
    • More on long-distance trains.
  • There is a double outlet.
    • Be friendly and share with your seatmate.
    • On newer coach cars, the outlets are between the seats.
  • Overhead storage and luggage racks are available in the cars.
  • The seatback has a net to store your small belongings.
  • Fold-down trays work well to hold food or your entertainment
    • An exception is if you are in the first row or bulkhead seats; these seats do not have trays.
  • Long-distance routes add curtains on the windows, leg rest, footrests, and seats that lean back further and offer more legroom.
• Other amenities
  • Foodservice (more on this later)
    • All long-distance and most regional trains have food.
  • Chill areas
    • The Sightseer lounge car is available on many Superliner trains; otherwise, most trains have a cafe car for you to stretch out.

Can I book two coach seats together for myself?

Amtrak does not allow passengers to book two seats together and have a whole row to themselves. You can also not save two seats for yourself on the train. If you have unique circumstances requiring additional seating, don’t hesitate to contact Amtrak or speak with a conductor.

Can Coach Passengers Visit Sleeper Car Passengers?

This question often arises. While coach passengers can visit you on the train, they cannot enter your sleeper car accommodations.

If your friend is on a coach, you can still spend time together in the lounge or café car or enjoy a meal in the dining car if available. You could also ask a conductor if you can sit with your friend in coach, but be aware that they might say no, especially if the train is full.

A good solution might be to upgrade your friend to join you in the sleeper car. The cost of adding someone to a sleeper room is often similar to the price of a coach ticket. You can arrange this by calling Amtrak to cancel the coach tickets and add them to your room.

Coach class boarding tips

The basics for boarding trains are similar to other forms of transportation; be prepared with your ticket handy and ready to go when the time comes.

Most regional Amtrak trains have seating like Southwest Airlines, open seating, and you do not have an assigned seat. You may get directed to a particular coach car before boarding.

On long-distance trains, you get assigned a car and often a seat before boarding, depending on how busy the train is that day.

Amtrak Coach Class: Quiet Car

Some regional trains have a Quiet Car, a magical place.

The car has simple rules.

• Put your phones on silent.
• Talk in a whisper.
• Refrain from talking on your phone.

Trains with Amtrak Quiet Cars

Acela	Blue Water
Capitol Corridor trains	Empire Service Corridor trains
Hiawatha Service	Keystone Service
Northeast Regional	Wolverine

Kev’s packing suggestions for Amtrak Coach Class

Extras I often pack for coach class trips:

Here’s a helpful list to ensure you have everything you need for your train journey:

1. Consider bringing snacks and a reusable water bottle, which you can refill on most trains.
2. Pack an extension cord; this will give you power where you need it and allow you to plug in more than one thing if necessary. Also, remember to bring headphones, chargers, and cords for all your devices.
3. While not essential, a tablet can be handy for entertainment, such as downloaded movies, books, and music.
4. Keep your travel paperwork handy, such as schedules and tickets. You can do this electronically, print them out, or do what I do and have both.
5. Lastly, it’s always helpful to have wet wipes available for freshening up or cleaning tray tables.

Long-distance coach class

If you are traveling overnight, consider the list above, plus

• You can make your own or get one of the Amtrak comfort kits (available in the cafe)
  • Neck pillow
  • Small blanket
  • Earplugs
  • Eyeshades
• Sleep aids

Food options for Amtrak coach class passengers

Most coach passengers use the cafe car on all but five regional trains.

Cafe Cars offers hot and cold meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks, and more.

Some reservations are open to coach passengers on a few long-distance trains with traditional dining.

You can bring food and drink on the train; due to FDA regulations, you cannot consume that food in food service cars.

You can bring alcohol on the train, but you cannot partake of what you got.

If you drink from your stash, there is a chance you can get removed from the train and fined if you get caught.

Overnighting in Amtrak coach class

Around 10 p.m., conductors turn off the car’s light, turn on the night lights, and discontinue announcements.

Sidenote: You cannot turn off the night lights, and do not try to take the bulbs out (yes, I saw someone attempt that)/

Remember that sleeping in coach class is unlike sleeping in a $500-a-night hotel, so set your expectations accordingly. If you want to lay flat and want pricey, get one of Amtrak’s sleeping accommodations.

The seats recline far enough to be comfortable to get a few z’s but far enough to be not flat. I am a side sleeper and often can find a comfortable position for a night or two.

Occasionally, if you are lucky and get two seats together just for you, that is not guaranteed. Find your sweet spot, and a sleep aid can help you slumber.

Do I stay on the train the whole time?

Yes and no, depending on your definition of getting

There are spots along long-distance routes designed for getting off the train, stretching your legs, and getting fresh air.

These longer stops are where Amtrak has crew changes or fuels the locomotives and refills the cars’ waters.

Also, if a train arrives at a stop early, the crew often lets passengers get off the train to get some fresh air.

You can stretch out, get fresh air, or smoke. Do not wander too far from the train.

The train can leave any time on or after its scheduled time, and it can go with or without you. Listen to the crew for the “all aboard.” Often, the engineer will toot the horn twice as a warning.

Where can Amtrak Coach Class passengers go on the train?

While on the train, you can get up and walk around, walk through other coach cars, or head to the cafe or Sightseer car. Coach class passengers cannot enter the sleeper cars, and the dining car use can be limited depending on the train.

If you need to stretch your legs, stroll through the coaches or walk to the cafe car and Sightseer lounges.

Alternatives to Amtrak Coach Class

Many regional trains have other options if you don’t think the coach class suits you, and long-distance trains have sleeping accommodations that provide privacy and more!

Amtrak Business Class

Business class is available on many regional trains and a few long-distance routes.

Amtrak Sleeping Accommodations

Long-distance routes offer sleeping cars, and those reservations provide privacy, showers, the ability to sleep horizontally, meals, and more.

The Palmetto is the only long-distance train that does not provide a sleeping class, but since it is not an overnight long-distance train, it makes sense.

The downside of Amtrak Coach Class

Like all other public transportation, you will probably sit next to someone you do not know. Every once in a while, you could end up with a fellow passenger who does not share the same manners. Over the years, this has been more of an exception to the rule than the standard.

If you go into coach class with the mindset of, I am going to make a new friend for the trip, and things are not going to be perfect, and that is okay, you should do fine.

If you are easily bothered, a very light sleeper, or want privacy, coach class is not for you, and upgrading might be better.

Other Amtrak Coach Class tidbits

You can track the progress of your train in a few ways: the Amtrak website or this website. To optimize your use of these sites, having the station and train number you are trying to track would be best. Twitter is also a resource for learning about the causes of delays.

For safety, remember to say something if you see something wrong when riding Amtrak. When onboard, talk to a conductor or staff member. The other option is to call or text the Amtrak Police to speak to the train crew. The Amtrak police numbers are 1-800-331-008, or you can text APD11 (27311).

Amtrak WI-FI

Not all Amtrak trains have Wi-Fi; trains with Wi-Fi may have dead spots. The trains’ Wi-Fi is cell-based; often, there are sections of the trains’ routes where you will not have cell service. In cases of an emergency, talk to a conductor. Remember, Wi-Fi is a luxury and not a right.

Additionally, Wi-Fi on trains does not allow streaming movies and big downloads, and it is a convenience for surfing the web and emails; if you “NEED” Wi-Fi, consider getting a hotspot or check to see if your plan allows you to use your phone as one.

Seating

When traveling with a companion on Amtrak, it’s possible that you may not get seats together. However, Amtrak makes an effort to seat parties together. If your seats are not together, you can always speak to the conductor about moving seats as they become available. You can move about the coach car if you haven’t been assigned seats. It’s worth noting that you’re more likely to get seats together if everyone in your party is on the same ticket.

Before changing seats on your commute, please speak with the staff first. If you decide to move, don’t forget to take your “seat check” with you, which is the small slip of paper above your chair with your destination. This helps the staff know that your old seat is now available. If you have any questions, feel free to ask the onboard crew.

How to get kicked off an Amtrak Train

Please do not take this section as something I am suggesting you do but as a look at things you should avoid doing.

Drinking

While in coach class, you can transport alcohol in your luggage but cannot drink from your stash.

The cafe serves beer, wine, and hard liquor. If you get caught drinking the adult beverages you brought, especially if you have too much, as Amtrak puts it, the next stop will be your stop.

You might even get to ride in a “special rideshare” to an exclusive “hotel” until you get back to yourself (a.k .a. arrested and go to jail).

Pot & Smoking On Amtrak

You cannot smoke or vape anything on an Amtrak train. Even with a medical permit, you cannot transport marijuana.

Additionally, Amtrak does not permit smoking and vaping inside any Amtrak station. Outside the train station, you must be away from the station’s and the train’s doors.

As stated before, there are smoke breaks along long-distance routes, and not every stop is a smoke stop.

From experience, if someone smokes on the train, EVERYONE will know. The smell will quickly fill that car; trust me. If you smoke, consider smoking or vaping alternatives while on the train. Here is more information

I have an article about smoking, vaping, and pot on Amtrak trains.

Other ways

Keeping the doors and windows closed while on board is essential, as this helps avoid unwanted interaction with conductors and police. If the doors or windows are open, engineers can notify the conductors, who will remove you from the train.

Do not transport marijuana on Amtrak trains, even if it is legal back home or in the state you are traveling through during your journey. Amtrak trains are considered federal property and follow federal laws.

Do’s and don’ts of Amtrak Coach Class

What not to do in Amtrak coach class

• Eat noisy food (especially at night) or foods with strong odors anywhere on the train.
• Use your electronic devices without headphones.
• Make phone calls from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. from your seat.
• Wear a lot of perfume; it can be overwhelming for other passengers; use half or less.
• Have unrealistic expectations about your whole trip
• Book tight connections or make plans right after your scheduled arrival.
  • Delays happen on train travel often due to the host railroads.
• Leave messes, especially in public areas, i.e., bathrooms and cafes.
• Plan on sitting alone.
• Do not hog tables in the cafe car when it is busy. It is unfair to your fellow passengers.
• If the train is busy, take up more than one seat; you only paid for one, and the train is not your office.

The “Please Do’s” of Amtrak Coach Class

• Use your inside voice while on the train.
• Practice good hygiene to the best of your ability.
• Use headphones and keep the volume at a reasonable level.
• Take your eyes off the screen and enjoy the view every once in a while. Not every train route has stunning vistas, but some views are breathtaking. Plus, your eyes will appreciate the break from screens.
• Be open-minded and pack your patience. Talk to others if you’re comfortable doing so.
• Clean up after yourself. Remember, perfect trips don’t always happen; often, imperfect journeys have better stories.
• Put your phone on silent or turn the ringer down very low, especially at night. If you need to call, go to a lounge or vestibule.
• Remember that Wi-Fi is a luxury, not a right. Amtrak Wi-Fi is not available on every train and is not intended for streaming.
• Plan on sitting next to someone you may not know. When busy, share lounge tables; you might make a new friend or learn something interesting.
• Set realistic expectations. Things happen, and how you react to them is essential. Don’t expect stunning views 100% of the time.
• Stay positive. Don’t let negative people and thoughts control your trip.

I hope this article can help you decide if Amtrak’s coach class suits you!

Thanks for stopping by, and safe travels!

Kev

10/8/19