Luggage goes in the overhead racks above your seat, under your seat, or in the designated luggage racks at the end of each car

On most Amtrak trains, you have three places to put your bags. Small bags and backpacks fit in the overhead racks that run along the top of the cabin. Medium suitcases slide under the seat in front of you. Larger luggage goes in the luggage racks — metal frames bolted to the floor at the end of each passenger car, near the doors. These racks are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The space available depends on which type of train you are riding. Regional trains like the Northeast Regional have less overhead space than long-distance trains like the Lake Shore Limited or the Southwest Chief. On sleeping cars, luggage storage is more limited because the roomettes and bedrooms take up most of the space.

You are responsible for your own luggage at all times. Amtrak does not store bags or hold them in a central location. If you leave a bag unattended, staff may remove it for security reasons.

Key Takeaways

  • Overhead racks above your seat work for small bags, backpacks, and light carry-ons.
  • Under-seat storage fits one medium suitcase per passenger, though space varies by seat type.
  • Luggage racks at the end of each car are the best option for large suitcases and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Sleeping car passengers have limited luggage space and should pack accordingly or use the luggage racks in the adjacent coach cars.
  • Never leave your bags unattended; Amtrak staff may remove them for security.

How the overhead racks work

The overhead racks run the length of the cabin above the windows and aisle. They are open metal frames, not enclosed compartments. Bags sit in plain view, which is why many passengers prefer them for items they need during the trip — a light jacket, a book, or a small backpack.

These racks have weight limits, though Amtrak does not publish a specific number. Use common sense: if a bag is so heavy you need both hands to lift it, it does not belong overhead. Lighter rolling carry-ons and soft-sided bags work well. Hard-sided suitcases are awkward to lift and can shift during the journey, so the luggage racks are a better choice for those.

On crowded trains, overhead space fills quickly. If you board early, you will have more options. If you board late, you may find the racks above your assigned seat full and have to use racks in nearby cars.

Under-seat storage and what fits

The space directly under your seat is shallow — roughly 12 to 18 inches high, depending on the car type. A standard rolling carry-on suitcase (22 inches long, 14 inches wide, 9 inches tall) will fit, but just barely. Soft-sided bags compress better than hard-sided ones.

This space is personal to your seat. Only you and your seatmate can reasonably use it. If you are traveling alone, you have the full width of the space. If you are traveling with a companion, you will need to coordinate or use the luggage racks instead.

Under-seat storage is useful for items you want to keep close — a purse, a small backpack, or a personal item. It is not a good choice for your main suitcase on a long trip, because you will have to climb over or move your bag every time you want to get up.

Luggage racks at the end of each car

The luggage racks are metal frames bolted to the floor near the doors at each end of the passenger car. They are designed to hold large suitcases, rolling bags, and other oversized luggage. These racks are the best option for your main bags on any Amtrak journey.

Space on the racks is limited and fills on a first-come, first-served basis. On busy routes or during peak travel times, the racks may be full. If that happens, you can ask the conductor if there is space in an adjacent car, or you can use the overhead racks and under-seat storage for smaller bags.

The racks are in a semi-public area of the car, visible to other passengers and staff. This is actually safer than storing bags in your seat area, because the conductor and other passengers can see them. Do not leave valuables unattended in the luggage racks — keep money, documents, electronics, and jewelry with you at all times.

Luggage storage on sleeping cars

If you have a roomette or bedroom on a long-distance train, luggage space is tight. Roomettes have a small closet and a shelf above the door. Bedrooms have slightly more space, with a closet and additional shelving. Neither has room for a full-sized suitcase.

Sleeping car passengers should pack one small carry-on bag for items needed in the room — toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and documents. Store your main luggage in the luggage racks in the adjacent coach cars or in the luggage car if the train has one (some long-distance trains do).

Ask the sleeping car attendant where to put your bags when you board. They know the layout of your specific train and can direct you to the nearest available rack or storage area.

What Amtrak considers oversized or prohibited

Amtrak allows two carry-on bags and one personal item per passenger at no extra charge. A carry-on is typically a rolling suitcase up to 28 inches long. A personal item is a purse, backpack, or small bag.

Bicycles, skis, and sports equipment require advance notice and may incur a fee. Firearms, explosives, and hazardous materials are prohibited. Pets must be in a carrier and are allowed only in certain cars on certain routes.

If your luggage is unusually large or heavy, contact Amtrak before you travel. They can tell you whether it will fit and where to store it. On some routes, there is a separate luggage car where oversized items can be checked, similar to airline baggage.

Tips for keeping your luggage safe and accessible

Label your bags with your name and phone number. Use a luggage tag that is straightforward to spot — bright colors or distinctive patterns help you find your bag quickly in a crowded luggage rack.

Keep your luggage locked if it contains valuables. A straightforward combination lock on the zippers deters casual theft. Never leave your bag unattended while you are away from your seat, even for a few minutes.

On overnight journeys, store your main luggage in the luggage racks, not in your seat area. This gives you more room to move around and sleep comfortably. Retrieve your bags before you arrive at your destination — do not wait until the last minute, because other passengers will be doing the same thing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I check my luggage like on an airplane?

Most Amtrak routes do not offer checked baggage service. You are responsible for storing and retrieving your own bags. On some long-distance routes, there is a luggage car where oversized items can be checked, but this is not standard. Contact Amtrak before you book to learn about your route has this service.

What if the luggage racks are full when I board?

Ask the conductor or an attendant if there is space in another car. If not, use the overhead racks and under-seat storage for smaller bags. On very crowded trains, you may need to split your luggage between multiple storage areas.

Is it safe to leave my bag in the luggage rack while I go to the dining car?

Yes, the luggage racks are in a semi-public area where staff and other passengers can see them. Keep valuables — money, documents, electronics — with you. Your main suitcase will be fine in the rack for an hour or two.

Can I store luggage in the aisles or doorways?

No. Bags in aisles or doorways are a safety hazard and block emergency exits. Staff will ask you to move them. Use only the designated storage areas: overhead racks, under-seat space, and luggage racks.

Do I need to find my bag to the luggage rack?

Amtrak does not require it, but a cable lock or bungee cord can prevent your bag from shifting during the journey, especially on curves or when the train stops suddenly. This is optional but recommended for peace of mind.