train 300x199 Reader story: a train vacation from CA to D.C.

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Chris of Yard Sale Queen shared her recent adventure cross country via Amtrak. Got a frugal story to share? Contact me. Chris’ two-week trip (not all on the train) intrigued me. How much did it cost? Was it a frugal vacation? What did she possibly do with all that time on her hands? Chris writes:

The train was the most expensive part of our trip! I think Amtrak makes their money with the “sleeper cars” – train cars that have different configurations of sleeping arrangements. Some little rooms that sleep 2 people, some with their own toilet, some that slept up to 4 with no toilet, etc etc. We got something called a “family bedroom” that slept 4, but we are a family of 3. Much smaller than any cruise ship room. We shared bathrooms (similar to an airplane bathroom)  – with just the people who were in the bottom part of our car (about 12 people – like 6 groups of 2). And there was a shower, which really wasn’t bad. Towels and soap was provided. There are no showers if you travel in Coach.

Taking the train by just buying a Coach ticket is definitely cheaper (more…)

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