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On the Rails: When Trains Make Sense for Family Trips

Are you planning a family vacation, but not sure the best way to get there? Wondering if it is cheaper to travel by train or plane? Well, considering all the factors involved, traveling by train could be a great choice for families who are in it for the experience! 

Not only can taking a rail journey provide unique opportunities for shared travel experiences, but sometimes planes aren’t always the cheapest option. Here we’ll explore when and why traveling by train might make sense to overbook an expensive flight within the United States. So pack your bags and hop aboard – let’s set off, destination unknown!

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Pros and Cons of Traveling by Train vs. Plane

When it comes to travel, there are many options to choose from. Three popular modes are by train, by plane, or by car. We do really love to pack up the car for a good road trip, but that’s a different kind of vacation that allows for much more exploration while you are on the road. We’ll leave those types of family vacations out here, but you can read more on our planning trips for a cross-country road trip if you want to go that route. 

While both train and air travel have their advantages and disadvantages, it ultimately comes down to what works best for you. The key factors include cost, comfort, and convenience.

Pros of Air Travel

  • Generally, journey times are much quicker than train travel.
  • Some flights may be cheaper than train tickets (depending on the route).
  • Multiple flight times are offered throughout the day for your convenience.
  • The journey to the destination is a means to an end and you want to hurry up and get there.
  • Can be cheaper to fly than take a train, especially for longer trips or when traveling with children ages 13 through 16.
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Cons of Air Travel

  • Airports can be chaotic, crowded, and uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • You have to arrive at least two hours ahead of domestic flights departure time (due to check-in, security, and boarding).
  • Airport security lines can take time and add to the stress of travel.
  • Baggage fees are not included in the price of your plane tickets and add an extra cost to the final bill.
  • Budget airlines like Spirit, Breeze, and others charge added fees for carry-ons, seating assignments, and other services. 
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Pros of Train Travel

  • Generally more comfortable than air travel with extra legroom and the ability to get up and move around on the train cars. 
  • The journey can be part of the experience – trains offer spectacular views of places you won’t often get to see from a plane.
  • Luggage allowances are higher for trains, allowing you to bring more items with you.
  • No security lines or TSA hassles to worry about.
  • Several popular train routes on the East Coast and Northeast Corridor offer high-speed routes.  
  • Train stations are often in the city center, making it easier to get to your destination.
  • Train travel also produces much less greenhouse gases and lower CO2 emissions per passenger kilometer compared to other modes of transport. 
  • Amtrak and other rail lines offer discounted train fare for children, students, military members, veterans, and seniors.

Cons of Train Travel

  • Train routes can take longer than flight times (depending on the route).
  • Routes may not be available in all areas of the country. Anyone living in small towns may have to drive a bit, to reach their nearest train station.
  • Amtrak trains often share rail lines with freight which can lead to delays.   
  • Not all destinations are accessible by train – this depends largely on the country’s rail infrastructure 
  • Rentals cars aren’t as convenient from train stations as they are from airports – You may have to travel a bit to get your rental car 

Is it Cheaper to Travel by Train or Plane within the United States?

The answer to this question of which costs less isn’t a clear-cut answer. It really depends on a few things. Trains are generally cheaper and more convenient if you’re traveling regionally or locally. Trains offer more direct routes from major cities and fewer security obstacles when compared to flying. Plus, they offer the allure of taking in the scenery on your journey.

Flying can be more expensive, especially when booking less than 30 days out or during peak travel times. However, planes can save you time, which may be more valuable to some. If you’re traveling long distances or cross country, however, flying might be the way to go. The cost of airfare can be more, but airlines often offer deals and specials that can make it more affordable. 

Allowances for Baggage

When it comes to baggage allowances, Amtrak is usually more generous than airlines when it comes to carrying luggage. Amtrak allows two personal items and 2 larger carry-on bags per passenger at no extra charge. That can save you a bundle if you’re going on an extended trip! 

On the other hand, airlines vary in their baggage allowance policies. Checked bags can vary between $30-$50 per bag each way, so it’s important to check the airline’s website for their rules and fees prior to booking. 

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Compare Sample Trip Itineraries

Let’s look at three examples. Note that the price is for one adult fare and luggage is not calculated into the airfare prices below. When traveling by train, luggage is often included in the ticket price and children riding with an adult receive a 50% discounted fare. The prices below are those available April 25, 2023. 

Example 1: Traveling from New York City to Boston 

Ticket Price – $138-158 round trip flying on JetBlue or Delta / $124 round trip for adults and $62 for children ages 2-12. Northeast Regional train

Time – 1-hour 10-minute flight / 4-hour 31-minute train

Which is better? When you consider the time spent prior to flight departure and getting to the airport, both flight and train times are nearly equal. Train travel would be the cheaper option, especially if you have luggage and travel with children.

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Example 2: Travel between Austin and Los Angeles

Ticket Price – $256-268 round trip flying on Spirit or Delta / $268 round trip per adult and $134 round trip for children ages 2-12 aboard the Amtrak Texas Eagle

Time – 3 hours 15-minute direct flight / 32 hours 25-minutes train travel with stops in the Southwest 

Which is better? Costs are about the same for adult airfare and train tickets. The flights shown here are direct flights and the total travel time is much shorter than the train. But if you want a scenic journey, the Texas Eagle train stops in various places including Tucson and Palm Springs. 

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Example 3: Travel between Chicago and Seattle

Ticket Price – $346-438 round trip flying on United or Alaska / $400 round trip for an adult and $200 round trip for a child aboard the Amtrak Empire Builder.

Time – 4 hours 37-minute direct flight / 46 hours 24-minute train travel with stunning views and stops in Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. 

Which is better? Flights would cost a family of four (with 2 children between ages 2-12) $1384. Train tickets for the same family are $1200. The train is the cheapest option here and the views aboard this train make the journey just as important as the destination. You get views of the Mississippi, Big Sky Country in Montana, Glacier National Park, and more. 

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Scheduling Influences Whether You Fly or Take a Train 

When it comes to planning a trip, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important is scheduling, which can have a big impact on whether you choose to fly or take a train. For example, if you’re traveling a short distance and have a lot of time, taking a train might be the more relaxing and scenic option. 

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Comfort & Enjoyment

 If you’re looking for comfort, a train might be the best choice as they usually offer more space with wider seats, longer legroom, and extra amenities such as onboard dining and free Wi-Fi (available depending on your route). 

If you want even more room and added comfort, trains offer sleeper bedrooms or smaller roomettes, which provide private sleeping compartments, meals, and beverages included in the ticket prices. Bedrooms are typically twice the size of a roomette and have a private bath.

Deciding Which Transportation Option is Best for You and Your Family 

Choosing the right transportation option for you and your family can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! Ask yourself a few simple questions to determine which one is best for your lifestyle. 

  1. Are you looking for a budget-friendly option?
  2. Are you willing to pay for convenience? 
  3. Do you prioritize comfort and space?
  4. Do you value environmental sustainability? 
  5. How far are you traveling? 
  6. How long of a vacation are you planning?

Once you have answers to these questions, you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution and what works for one family may not work for another. So, take your time, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect fit that makes financial sense for you and your loved ones. 

For more help planning your next trip, start with:

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About Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is a travel and active family lifestyle blogger and social media influencer based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She shares stories, destinations, and ideas on food, family, health, and outdoor recreation to help families find their own adventures. Her spirit animal is a caffeinated squirrel fueled by coffee, real food, and the desire to seek new adventures.

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