Traveling by train is about to become easier hopefully, and more affordable, thanks to a new fare plan by Amtrak.
A new, simplified fare structure aims to make purchasing Amtrak tickets more flexible and affordable. Fares are now in two categories: Flex (refundable if canceled and changeable fee-free before departure) and Value (non-changeable and only 75 percent refundable if canceled).
Additional deals will include regional “Night Owl” fares, as low as $5 to $20 on select Northeast Corridor (NEC) routes and improved Share Fares for groups of three to eight people traveling together to receive discounts ranging from 17 percent to 60 percent. Senior and military discounts will also be expanded to all fares, plus sales, and the children's discount for kids aged 2 to 12 will offer 50 percent off fairs per kid traveling with an adult.
Frequent travelers can now use their Amtrak Guest Rewards to use points on more fare types.
“This streamlined fare structure with more affordable and flexible fares is part of Amtrak’s continued commitment to upgrading the customer experience at every step along their journey,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris in a news release.
Additional benefits of the simplified fare structure include flex fares starting at lower prices and sale fares offered at an even better discount, which will be non-changeable and only receive a 50-percent refund if canceled. Refunds for credit card purchases will also be returned to the guest's original form of payment, rather than as an eVoucher.