Amtrak allows two free carry-on bags and two free checked bags on most routes, with specific size and weight limits for each

Amtrak's luggage policy is straightforward: you get two pieces of luggage you can carry with you (like a rolling suitcase or backpack) and two pieces you can check (which go in the baggage car). Each carry-on bag can be up to 28 inches long, 22 inches wide, and 14 inches tall — roughly the size of a standard rolling suitcase. Each checked bag can be up to 50 inches long, 30 inches wide, and 30 inches tall, and must weigh no more than 50 pounds.

Beyond those four bags, you can bring one personal item at no charge — a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack that fits under your seat or in the overhead rack. If you need to bring more than two checked bags, Amtrak will charge you $20 per extra bag on most routes. Oversized or overweight bags may also incur additional fees, so it's worth measuring and weighing before you arrive at the station.

Key Takeaways

  • You receive two free carry-on bags (up to 28 × 22 × 14 inches each) and two free checked bags (up to 50 × 30 × 30 inches, 50 pounds each) on all Amtrak routes.
  • A personal item like a purse or small backpack travels free and does not count toward your bag limit.
  • Extra checked bags cost $20 each; bags that exceed size or weight limits may also be charged as oversize.
  • Bicycles, sports equipment, and musical instruments have separate rules and may require advance notice or additional fees.
  • You can pick up checked bags when ready after your train arrives, or arrange to have them held at the station for a short time.

Where to Put Your Bags on the Train

Carry-on bags go in the overhead racks above your seat or on the floor beside you — there is usually room for a rolling suitcase and a smaller bag. Checked bags are stored in a separate baggage car and you will not see them until you reach your destination. On longer routes, Amtrak staff can help you stow larger carry-on items if the overhead space is full.

If you are traveling on a shorter regional route (like Northeast Regional or Piedmont), the train may have less overhead storage, so a smaller carry-on bag is easier to manage. On long-distance trains like the Lake Shore Limited or the Southwest Chief, baggage racks are more generous, and checked luggage is the better option for anything you do not need during the journey.

Checked Bags: What Happens and When You Get Them Back

When you check a bag at the station, Amtrak staff will tag it and load it into the baggage car. You will receive a claim ticket — keep this safe, as you will need it to pick up your bag. At your destination, checked bags are usually unloaded and available for pickup within 30 minutes to an hour after the train arrives, depending on how busy the station is.

If you are not ready to pick up your bag right away, you can ask the station staff to hold it for you. Most stations will hold checked luggage for up to 24 hours at no charge. If you need it held longer, call Amtrak's customer service line at 1-800-USA-RAIL to arrange storage. Do not leave the station without your claim ticket — you will need it to retrieve your bag later.

Items You Cannot Bring on Amtrak

Amtrak prohibits weapons, explosives, and certain hazardous materials. You cannot bring firearms, ammunition, or sharp objects like swords or large knives. Flammable liquids, pressurized containers, and corrosive chemicals are also banned. If you are unsure whether an item is allowed, call Amtrak before your trip.

Pets are generally not allowed in the passenger cabin, though service animals travel free. Some long-distance routes allow pets in certain sleeping cars for a $25 fee, but you must book in advance and the pet must stay in your room. Smoking is prohibited everywhere on the train, including in sleeping cars and on platforms.

Special Items: Bicycles, Sports Gear, and Instruments

Bicycles can travel on Amtrak, but they must be disassembled and packed in a bike bag or hard case — you cannot bring a fully assembled bicycle into the passenger area. A packed bike counts as one of your two free checked bags. If you do not have a proper bike bag, Amtrak sells cardboard bike boxes at most stations for around $15.

Skis, snowboards, golf clubs, and fishing rods can be checked as luggage if they fit within the size and weight limits. Musical instruments like guitars or violins should travel as carry-on bags whenever possible, since they are fragile and you will want to keep them with you. If an instrument is too large to carry on, you can check it, but wrap it well and consider purchasing additional insurance through Amtrak.

Luggage Fees and Extra Charges

The first two checked bags are free. A third checked bag costs $20, a fourth costs $20, and so on. Bags that exceed the 50-pound weight limit or the 50 × 30 × 30 inch size limit will be charged as oversize items at $20 per bag. Amtrak staff will weigh and measure bags at the ticket counter, so arrive early enough to resolve any issues before your train departs.

If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, it may be worth checking whether you can ship some items ahead to your destination using a parcel service instead. For very long trips or relocations, this can be cheaper and less stressful than managing multiple oversize bags at the station.

Tips for Packing and Station Arrival

Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure for regional trains and 45 minutes before for long-distance trains. This gives you time to check bags, go through security screening, and find your platform without rushing. Have your luggage ready to weigh and measure — do not wait until you reach the counter to open bags and reorganize.

Pack heavier items in checked bags and keep essentials (medications, phone chargers, a change of clothes) in your carry-on. On overnight trains, you will want your toiletries and pajamas accessible. Label your bags with your name and phone number inside and out, in case a bag is delayed or misplaced. Amtrak's baggage system is generally reliable, but a label makes reuniting you with your luggage much faster if something goes wrong.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a suitcase that is slightly larger than the carry-on limit?

Amtrak staff have some flexibility with carry-on dimensions, especially if the bag fits in the overhead rack. However, if your bag is noticeably oversized, they may require you to check it and charge an oversize fee. Measure your bag before you arrive — a standard rolling suitcase (22 × 14 × 9 inches) fits comfortably within the limit.

What if my checked bag does not arrive with me?

Contact Amtrak when ready at the station or call 1-800-USA-RAIL. Provide your claim ticket number and a description of the bag. Amtrak will trace the bag and usually locate it within 24 to 48 hours. If a bag is lost, Amtrak's liability is limited, so valuable items should travel in your carry-on.

Can I check bags on a train that does not have a baggage car?

Some shorter regional trains do not have baggage cars and do not accept checked luggage. Amtrak's website lists which routes have baggage service. If your route does not, you will need to bring everything as carry-on, so plan accordingly or choose a different train.

Do I have to pay extra to bring a guitar or violin?

No, a musical instrument counts as one of your two free carry-on bags or one of your two free checked bags. If you check it, pack it carefully in a hard case or padded gig bag. Amtrak does not insure checked instruments, so consider purchasing additional coverage if the instrument is valuable.

Can I bring a cooler with food and drinks?

Yes, a cooler counts as a carry-on or checked bag depending on its size. Small coolers fit in the overhead rack; larger ones should be checked. You can bring your own food and drinks on board, though Amtrak also sells snacks, sandwiches, and beverages in the cafe car on most routes.