Baggage Size

Is AMTRAK very picky about baggage size? I will be travelling later this summer and a section of my trip doesn’t allow checked bags.

Amtrak’s official baggage policy says they enforce it “strictly.” The size limit of a carry-on bag “may not exceed 28x22x14 inches in size.” There is only a limited amount of space on the luggage rack so this is understandable.

See: http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Amtrak/am2Copy/Title_Image_Copy_Page&c=am2Copy&cid=1080080553878&ssid=43

Note that certain items including “briefcases, purses, laptops, and infant paraphernalia such as strollers, diaper bags and car seats” are not counted against your carry-on limit of two suitcases.

I know they “say” enforce it strictly, but do they? Do they whip out measuring devices and whatnot? If it’s an inch over, do you have to leave it behind or something?

Alas, I cannot say how strictly Amtrak enforces its baggage rules across the board. However, it has been my observation that, when it comes to enforcing rules in general, some employees in the system use their discretion, while others are strictly “by the book.” Since you have no way of knowing which type you’ll encounter on your journey, it is best to err on the side of caution.

Roger that. Thanks!