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Flag stops are a unique part of Amtrak’s service. At Amtrak flag stop, trains only stop if passengers are scheduled to board or disembark. This guide explains how flag stops work, what travelers need to know when booking, and tips to ensure a smooth journey. Whether heading to a remote destination or a lesser-served station, understanding flag stops can make your Amtrak trip even more flexible and convenient.

For the most part, this post applies to commuter railroads as well.

What Is an Amtrak Flag Stop, and How Does It Work?

An Amtrak flag stop is where the train stops only if passengers are getting on or off. If no passengers get on or off, the train will likely continue to the next stop. These stops can be on a platform or at an unstaffed station.

How did flag stops used to work?

In the past, when someone wanted the train to stop, the station agent would wave a flag to signal the train. If no one were waving a flag as the train approached, it would not stop but keep going along its route. In case you were wondering, I’m unsure if they used one flag or two.

With electronics these days, people no longer need to wave flags to get the train to stop.

The Difference Between A Flag And A Regular Train Stop

At regular stops, the train stops regardless of whether anyone is boarding. If the train is ahead of schedule, it will wait at the station until the scheduled departure time.

But at flag stops, the train only stops if one or more passengers are booked to board or get off at those locations.

Why Do Passenger Railroads Use Flag Stops?

Flag stops enable railroads to operate more efficiently in areas with low passenger traffic.

Stopping and staring at a train requires a lot of energy, so skipping unnecessary stops helps save time and fuel. Even slowing down at a flag stop uses less energy than a complete stop. Additionally, bypassing stops can help late trains recover lost time and improve overall scheduling.

Is Amtrak The Only Railroad With Flag Stops?

Amtrak is not the only passenger railroad that uses flag stops; commuter railroads like Metra, the South Shore Line, and others across the United States also commonly use them. (I ride those closest to me, so I know them best.)

Things are slightly different if you use a flag stop on a commuter rail. Sadly, there are still no flags to wave, but for some people, that is a selling point.

At commuter flag stops, ensure you are on the platform before the scheduled time so engineers can see you. Sometimes, you may need to press a button for a light to go off so they know to stop the train.

Dual Role Stations: Flag and Regular Stops

An example of a station that serves both functions is the former Illinois Central Station in Kankakee, IL. It is a regular stop for regional Amtrak trains and a flag stop for the long-distance City of New Orleans.

The levels of passenger traffic for a route can determine whether it is a flag stop or a regular stop. If an existing stop is already available, using it as a flag stop for a different route is straightforward.

Regional trains, which experience higher demand, make regular stops, while long-distance trains utilize flag stops to maintain efficiency and ensure timely service without unnecessary delays.

Arriving At An Amtrak Flag Stop

If a flag-stop station is their final destination, the train will stop as usual for passengers. Listen for announcements, as not all doors may open.

Let the conductor on non-Amtrak commuter trains know if you would like to get off at a flag stop.

Boarding At Amtrak Flag Stop

When your journey begins at a flag stop, the train will stop for you as long as you have booked your ticket.

As the train approaches, the conductor checks if anyone is scheduled to board and informs the engineers whether to stop. This system replaces the need for physical signals, like waving flags. So, to ensure the train stops for you, book your ticket in advance—it’s like waving a virtual flag!

If you have questions, check out my post about boarding Amtrak Trains.

It is crucial to ensure that the engineer can see you when riding non-Amtrak commuter trains. If they do not see you, they will not stop.

In some cases, you may need to do something. For example, once on the Southshore Line, I had to press a button to alert the train crew. Take a quick look around to see if there’s anything else you need to do to ensure your visibility. It’s the closest thing to waving a flag I’ve ever had to do.

How Do I Know If A Station Is An Amtrak Flag Stop?

A few years ago, Amtrak schedules indicated flag stops at a glance. These days, it is a little more complicated. If you have a train ticket, you have nothing to worry about, and you can treat it like an unstaffed station.

The easiest way is to look up the station on the Amtrak website or app. Another option is to find the route on this site and click the station.

Parking At Unstaffed Stations

Amtrak stations offer various parking options, but local communities establish regulations that can change. It’s best to research parking before your trip.

If you prefer phone calls, contact City Hall or local authorities like the police. If you prefer not to make calls, check the community’s website, look for signs at the station, or ask nearby businesses.

To avoid last-minute stress, consider using rideshare services or arranging a drop-off. That way, parking won’t be an issue, and you won’t miss your train.

How to Check the Train Status for Amtrak Flag Stops

To keep track of your train, you can sign up for email or text alerts during booking or afterward—no reservation number is needed. Others can also receive updates.

You can also check the Amtrak app or website, use third-party sites, or follow Amtrak Alerts on Twitter for real-time information. Learn more about how to track Amtrak trains. 

While Amtrak aims to stay on schedule, delays can occur due to freight traffic, weather, or other factors, and trains can’t always take alternate routes.

Setting Expectations for Amtrak Flag Stop

Flag stops are unstaffed, often featuring just a platform, but there may be a shelter.

Baggage is carry-on only at these stations; conductors and onboard staff can help you get your things onto the train.

Accommodations can vary. Unless the community offers free Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi is usually not available, and bathroom and baggage services may not be available.

Once the train arrives, the onboard staff will assist with boarding and disembarking.

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How to Prepare for an Amtrak Flag Stop

You and your travel companions can prepare for your adventure in several ways. If needed, request assistance when booking; that way, the train staff is better prepared and looking for you.

Here are a few things I do to help me prepare for my trips, whether it’s a flag stop or any other station. The best advice I can give you is to bring your patience, set the right expectations, and be ready to pivot from what you think is supposed to happen.

At Home Preparation:

• Have things printed out, if you want, like tickets and schedules.
• Pack light and keep your tickets in a place that is easily accessible.
• Before leaving, track your train to confirm it’s on time and see if it runs on time.
• If you are a sleeper, note your car and room numbers; they are on your ticket. Knowing this information will help you board smoothly.
  • Coach passengers receive their seat assignments during the boarding process.
• Charge your portable charger for your electronics.
  • A battery pack can help ensure you have changing power when needed.

Essential Tips:

• Verify travel dates and information to avoid mix-ups.
• Know the parking rules at your station if you are driving.
• Ensure your bags follow Amtrak’s latest baggage rules.
  • You cannot check bags at flag stops in most cases, but you can do so later if you have a connecting train.

At The Station:

• Have your tickets ready (either paper or digital).
• Arrive early; the trains will not wait for you if you are late.
• Stand on the platform so you can be seen and are ready to board.

Snacks & Food:

• Pack some snacks and bring a water bottle to energize you while waiting or on the train.
• If you arrive at the station early, you can relax at a nearby place before departure, but return to the platform early.

Amtrak Flag Stop Wrap-up

Flag stops are nothing to worry about; your trip will go smoothly if you know what is happening. Don’t pack more than you can handle getting on and off the train. While this article covers the basics, I recommend checking the articles on unstaffed and platform stations for a more in-depth look.

Safe Travels!

Kev

12082020