Amtrak to Start Charging Excess Baggage Fees

By LIZ TAURASI (Patch Staff)

If you are a frequent Amtrak passenger, be aware starting in October you will be charged excess baggage fees for carry-on items.

Effective Thursday, Oct. 1, Amtrak will be charging a $20 excess baggage fee for each carry-on and personal item above the service’s current quantity and size limits.

Passengers will be allowed a maximum of two excess bags. Amtrak says fees will be collected at the station or once you are boarded on the train if the station is unstaffed. Where checked baggage is available, passengers can check two bags through to their final destination free of charge.

Here’s a quick rundown on what the current baggage amounts and size limits are:

Carry-On Items

Each passenger may bring 2 personal items, 25 lbs. and 14 x 11 x 7 inches each, and 2 carry-on items, 50 lbs. and 28 x 22 x 14 inches each, onboard, according to Amtrak.

Checked Items

Each passenger can check up to four bags (two free of charge and two for $20 per bag, each not to exceed 50 lb. and 75 linear inches (length + width + height).

View more information on Amtrak’s baggage policy and the excess baggage fee >>>