Amtrak's USA Rail Pass Offers Scenic Journeys, But Some Surprises

A frequent Amtrak passenger shares 6 things she wishes she knew before buying the $499 USA Rail Pass.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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As a seasoned Amtrak traveler, I decided to try the USA Rail Pass, which allows 10 train rides within 30 days for $499. While it provided great value for my 11-state journey, there were some unexpected challenges, like not being able to upgrade to sleeper cars and relying on the sometimes spotty onboard WiFi. However, the Sightseer Lounge's panoramic views made the trips truly special.

Why it matters

The USA Rail Pass offers an affordable way for travelers to explore the country by train, but understanding its limitations and planning ahead can help maximize the experience. This story provides helpful insights for anyone considering the pass.

The details

With the USA Rail Pass, each "segment" or boarding/disembarking counts as one of the 10 rides, so choosing direct routes is key to stretching the value. Coach seats are included, but sleeper car upgrades are not available. As a coach passenger, I saved money by packing my own snacks, though the generous baggage policy meant I had to pack light. The onboard WiFi was often unreliable, so I learned to download entertainment beforehand. The highlight was the Sightseer Lounge, which offered stunning panoramic views of the countryside.

  • Last year, I traveled through the East Coast and Midwest by rail.
  • By the time I reached Chicago, I finally decided to give Amtrak's $499 USA Rail Pass a try.

The players

Malia Yoshioka

A frequent Amtrak passenger who bought the USA Rail Pass and shared her experiences.

Amtrak

The national passenger railroad service provider that offers the USA Rail Pass.

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What they’re saying

“I grew up in Hawaii, where there are no trains or fall foliage, so the experience felt completely new to me.”

— Malia Yoshioka (businessinsider.com)

“As a frequent traveler, I've seen the glow of golden hour over a field of wheat, the soft rise of mountain ranges, and canyons filled with rivers and patches of fall color.”

— Malia Yoshioka (businessinsider.com)

The takeaway

The USA Rail Pass provides an affordable way to explore the country by train, but travelers should plan ahead to make the most of the experience, such as packing light, bringing their own snacks, and downloading entertainment in advance to account for spotty onboard WiFi.