Our Review of Amtrak Auto Train | The Pros and Cons

Last Updated: January 9, 2025

The Amtrak Auto Train is the longest passenger train in the world, stretching up to three-quarters of a mile long with its passenger cars, vehicle carriers, and staff quarters. It can carry up to 330 vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, SUVs, and even small boats. We thought the service offered a comfortable alternative to the rigors of a long drive, particularly for those heading to Florida for vacations, seasonal snowbirds, or other extended stays.

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Key Features and Amenities

Auto Train Accommodation Options:

We were able choose between coach seating or private sleeping accommodations. Coach seating offers wide, reclining seats with plenty of legroom and footrests, comparable to business-class airplane seats. We thought the coach seating was very nice and comparable to many of the trains in Europe.

Pro Tip: Lights go out in the Coach seating about 9 pm, so plan accordingly.

For added comfort and privacy, passengers can opt for roomettes, family bedrooms, or bedrooms, which offer various levels of space, sleeping arrangements, and amenities like a private toilet and shower.

Dining:

Meals are included in the ticket price for all sleeper car passengers. Dinner and breakfast options are available to all passengers in the Café Car. Sleeper car passengers have the option of having dinner and breakfast in the Dining Car or private dining in the rooms. We each had the salmon filet dinner and were very pleased. The meals provide options for different dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free.

Onboard Experience:

The Auto Train provides a comfortable and relaxing experience. There are opportunities to walk around the train, enjoy the lounge cars, and stretch your legs. We had acceptable and free Wi-Fi throughout the entire trip. The train’s overnight nature means that most of the journey is spent sleeping, allowing passengers to wake up closer to their destination.

Vehicle Transportation:

One of the main draws of the Auto Train is the ability to bring your vehicle. This service is especially popular with those moving to or from Florida or snowbirds who like to spend warm winters in Florida and cooler summers in the northern US.

Upon arrival at either terminal, vehicles are loaded onto specialized carrier cars. It is recommended to get there 2 hours prior to departure. We were there 3 1/2 hours early and glad we did. Upon disembarking, vehicles are unloaded, and passengers can quickly drive away. You can pay an additional fee of $95 for priority unloading. Since we were traveling in the low season, we chose to not pay for this service and waited less than 30 minutes to get our vehicle.

Pros of the Amtrak Auto Train

Convenience of Transporting Your Vehicle:

The Auto Train is an attractive option for those who want to have their vehicle at their destination without the hassle of driving long distances. It’s ideal for families, road trip enthusiasts, and seasonal travelers who prefer their cars for local transportation after arrival.

Relaxing and Stress-Free Travel:

Driving long distances can be exhausting, especially when dealing with traffic, weather conditions, and fatigue. The Auto Train allows travelers to relax, sleep, and enjoy the journey, making it a stress-free way to travel between the Mid-Atlantic and Florida on Interstate 95.

Comfortable Accommodation Options:

Whether in coach or sleeper cars, the Auto Train offers a more relaxed experience than driving or flying. The seats are spacious, and sleeper cabins provide privacy, comfort, and additional amenities for those willing to pay extra. The tracks were a little rougher than the high-speed trains of Europe, but it wasn’t too bad.

Meals Included:

The fact that meals are included in the ticket price is a big plus, especially for families and groups. The dining car experience is generally pleasant, and the variety of food options ensures that most passengers can find something they enjoy.

Eco-Friendly Travel:

Traveling by train is generally more environmentally friendly than driving or flying. The Auto Train reduces the number of cars on the road, helping to lower overall emissions. For eco-conscious travelers, this is a positive aspect of using the service.

Scenic Experience:

Though much of the trip occurs overnight, daytime portions offer panoramic views of the Eastern Seaboard’s countryside. We enjoyed the views throughout southern Virginia just before sunset. Travelers can enjoy the view from the large windows in coach or their private rooms, adding to the overall experience. We recommend going to the Lounge because you get better views of both sides of the train.

Cons of the Amtrak Auto Train

High Cost of Sleeper Accommodations:

While coach seats are reasonably priced, sleeper accommodations are high, especially during peak travel times. A bedroom or family bedroom can significantly increase the cost of the trip, making it comparable to flying in business class or first class. This may not be an option for budget-conscious travelers.

Only One Route:

The Amtrak Auto Train only operates between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida. For those living far from either station, the logistics of getting to and from the departure or arrival point can add time and cost to the trip. It’s also not valid for those traveling to other destinations within the U.S. The Amtrak Auto Train does operate throughout the year with daily trains leaving in both directions.

Long Duration:

Although the Amtrak Auto Train eliminates the need to drive, it is still a long journey, taking around 16-18 hours. There is only one brief stop in South Carolina to change crews. Flying may be a better option for travelers pressed for time since it only takes a little more than two hours to fly between Washington, D.C., and Orlando with a direct flight.

Potential Delays:

Like other train services, the Auto Train can experience delays due to weather conditions, technical issues, or logistical complications. Delays can extend the already long travel time and can be frustrating for passengers expecting an on-time arrival. We were fortunate that we actually arrived almost an hour early in Sanford, FL.

Limited Onboard Amenities:

While the Auto Train offers basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, lounge access, and dining, it lacks some of the luxury features found on other long-distance trains or airlines. Some travelers may find the entertainment options limited. We had good WI-FI service and had no issues with the amenities.

Alternatives to the Amtrak Auto Train

Driving:

The most obvious alternative to the Auto Train is simply driving yourself. The drive from Washington, D.C., to Orlando takes about 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This option gives you complete flexibility but requires endurance and could be tiring, especially for families or those traveling with children. We think this is the cheapest option, especially if you drive all the way, but it makes for a long and tiring trip on a very busy highway. Average gas costs in September of 2024 would be around $130, depending on fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Stopping halfway for a hotel would add additional costs.

Flying:

Many travelers fly between major hubs like Washington, D.C., and Orlando. The flight is only about 2-3 hours, making it a much faster option. We found average costs to be from $150-$400 per person for round trip travel, depending on the airline. However, the added time for getting to and from airports, security checks, and potential baggage fees and parking can be drawbacks. Additionally, you’d need to rent a car or arrange other transportation upon arrival.

Car Shipping Services:

Another alternative is using a car shipping service. You can fly to your destination while your vehicle is shipped separately, allowing you to avoid driving or being on the train. This option can be expensive but may be convenient for those who want the fastest travel option while still having their vehicle at their destination. We found that the average prices for this service was $700-$1000 for a one-way trip between the Washington DC area and Orlando, FL area.

Amtrak Auto Train Costs

The Amtrak Auto Train costs vary depending on several factors, including travel dates, accommodation choices, and the size of your vehicle. Below is a general breakdown of the costs:

Cost of Coach Tickets:

Coach seats on the Auto Train typically cost $100 to $180 per person, depending on the time of year and availability. This includes meals and basic amenities but no sleeping accommodations. We paid $122 each for our tickets.

Cost of Sleeper Accommodations:

For those seeking more comfort, sleeper accommodations start around $500 to $900 for an Amtrak roomette and can go up to $1,600 for a family bedroom or full bedroom during the peak season. These prices include meals and more luxurious sleeping arrangements. The tickets were generally more expensive going south, except for the months of April and May. We saved some money by booking coach tickets and upgrading to a roomette for the minimum amount of $210. We could have also bid for a bedroom with a minimum bid of $450, but we wanted to try a roomette. Check the Amtrak site for exact costs on a specific date. This worked well for the slower season, but may not be available or at a higher bid cost during the peak season.

Cost of Vehicle Fees on the Auto Train:

The costs to transport a vehicle range from $200 to $300 for standard cars, while larger vehicles like SUVs and motorcycles cost slightly more. Seasonal price fluctuations may apply, with peak travel times like holidays increasing these rates. We paid $285 for our tickets in mid-September. You can also request “priority unloading” for an additional $95.

Amtrak Auto Train Discounts:

Amtrak offers discounts for children, older adults, and military personnel. Additionally, booking in advance can sometimes result in lower prices, and Amtrak has loyalty programs that can help frequent travelers save.

Conclusion:

We thought the Amtrak Auto Train provided a convenient and relaxing option for us since we were wanting to bring a vehicle along for the journey to Orlando. It offered significant advantages in comfort, stress-free travel, and vehicle transport. However, we thought the cost of premium accommodations was steep, and the long duration may only suit some. Alternatives like driving, flying, or using car shipping services should be considered based on individual needs, time constraints, and budgets. Despite its limitations, the Amtrak Auto Train remains a unique and popular travel option for those seeking convenience and comfort. We are glad that we gave it a try and look forward to future adventures on Amtrak.

Happy Journeys,

John and Bev

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