When is amtrak's off peak season?

Answer 1

Between August and June.

Amtrak uses a method that gives you lower prices the earlier you book your trip. This applies to both Rail Fare and Accommodations. The first few seats or rooms sold on a particular trip are sold at the lowest price. The next few are sold at a slightly higher price and the next few after that at higher still. This continues until the trip is nearly full. The last few seats or rooms sold will be sold at the highest price. Thus, the earlier you can make your reservations and pick up your tickets, the lower the price. I generally make my reservations 3 to 11 months in advance and usually get the lowest available price. This is also the reason why you can get one price quote when you call 1-800-USA-RAIL for information and then get a higher price quote if you call back later to book your trip.

Many attractive options exist to help you obtain cheap train tickets, especially if you are interested in seasonal fares. Before booking your trip, do some research on fare prices to determine how you can save the most money according to your travel needs and plans. Consider the costs of traveling during high peak seasons, which generally run from June 1st through early September. Anytime thereafter is considered off-peak seasons. Save money on train tickets by traveling during off-peak season and by taking advantage of passenger discounts and specials.

How to get a cheap train ticket.Step 1

Inquire about passenger discounts. Many times a railway company will offer its frequent rail passengers specials and deals that may be redeemed throughout any season. Amtrak offers attractive 10%-15% discounts to children under 12, seniors, military personnel, veterans, AAA members and college students.

Step 2

Buy cheap train tickets during their seasonal off-peak schedules. Off-peak fares allow customers to take full advantage of train scheduling that are less busy than on the average.

Step 3

Train tickets are the cheapest online because they are the most competitive in pricing and will offer you a flat-rate ticket with very few restrictions. For instance, if you were to book a seat from Chicago to New York or from Miami to Reno, you would be paying the same flat rate. Double your discount by purchasing off-season tickets online.

You can find out what the base price is for a particular route by using Amtrak's calander and scrolling ahead 11 months.