The USA Rail Pass is not really for commuters, as it only allows for two round-trip tickets (four one-ways) over the same route. It is also only eligible for coach tickets, with no upgrades offered at this time — although coach tickets on Amtrak are notoriously known for being much more comfortable than an airplane with way more legroom, gracious views, and no middle seat. Plus, you can hop off and explore any of the great places on the route.
Keeping COVID-19 in mind, masks are required on all public transportation, per federal law. Filtration systems offer fresh air every four to five minutes and Amtrak has set a goal for its staff to be 100 percent vaccinated. In addition, Amtrak is looking to make the trip as touch-free as possible with its app, where customers can book, get boarding information, and check train status from the comfort of their cellphone.
“We want to offer customers a truly unique way to travel this summer,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer Roger Harris in a press release. “With the new electronic USA Rail Pass, customers can take advantage of a great value and newly streamlined web and mobile app interfaces to make managing personalized travel plans convenient and easy.” 