1. The Allure of Slow Travel
2. Experience Private Rail Travel
3. Considerations for Purchasing a Rail Car
Slow travel is gaining popularity, particularly among train enthusiasts in the United States, with the option to ride on Amtrak across the country. Among various seating arrangements—from coach and business class to the luxurious amenities in sleeper cars—there exists a more exclusive transportation option: owning a private rail car.
When we mention private rail cars, we do not refer to chartering your own Amtrak train, although that is indeed a possibility. Instead, we are talking about attaching a rail car that you own to an Amtrak train, providing a unique travel experience.
“Amtrak offers the ability for people to attach their privately owned rail cars to our trains for travel to destinations on the Amtrak system to see North America in an extraordinary way,” an Amtrak spokesperson mentioned to iBestTravel.
While it’s true that private rail car owners are relatively few, organizations such as the American Association of Private Railroad Car Owners and the Railroad Passenger Car Alliance indicate that a community does exist. For these fortunate individuals, Amtrak provides one of the most efficient ways to traverse long distances. Furthermore, Amtrak offers additional services, including both short-term and long-term rail car parking, as well as car wash facilities.
If owning a rail car is not feasible, it is possible to purchase one; however, it requires a significant financial commitment. Fully restored vintage rail cars can range from $500,000 to $1 million or more. Even if you consider DIY projects, expenses can still reach six figures. Additionally, Amtrak charges for towing, starting at $4.09 per mile, exclusive of various additional fees.
If purchasing a rail car is beyond your means, you can simply relax in a traditional Amtrak window seat and enjoy the scenic views as you travel.
