After spending hundreds of hours on Amtrak trains, I always prepare for 5 mishaps that can make journeys more difficult

• My experiences have been overwhelmingly positive, but I’ve run into some issues.
• Now, when I board a train, I prepare for unexpected delays, crowded cars, and spotty cell reception.

To get the best deals, I look out for Amtrak sales by signing up for promotional email lists. I’ve landed discounts of up to 30% at certain times of the year.

I also have a free Amtrak rewards account that I use to earn points toward future tickets.

This story was originally published on November 2, 2024, and most recently updated on April 29, 2025.