This Solo Traveler Traveled All Over the U.S. Over 30 Days Using a Single $499 Amtrak Pass—Here's How
"For $499 the pass lets you take 10 domestic rail segments within 30 days across 500+ destinations—worked out to about $50 per ride for this traveler—enabling a coast-to-coast itinerary (including Washington, D.C.; Chicago; Denver; San Francisco; Los Angeles; San Diego; New Orleans; Miami) and, when extended, a total of roughly 230 hours on trains between Jan. 28 and March. The experience emphasizes slow, reflective travel: she journaled on long stretches, felt more present than when flying, and found fellow passengers unusually open to conversation and shared activities like card games. The pass is limited to coach-class travel (not available in Business class or private rooms); coach seats are relatively wide, recline and have leg rests, but several overnight trips in coach caused back pain—she suggested scheduling a massage afterwards—and traveling off season sometimes yielded two seats to oneself. Overall, it provided an affordable, scenic, and sociable way to see much of the country while prioritizing the journey itself." - Rachel Chang Rachel Chang Rachel Chang is a travel and pop culture journalist who contributes to Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
