I love taking the train. For me, it's an incredibly relaxing way to avoid the rigors of long-distance car driving and the stress and anxiety associated with wheelchair-bound air travel. Usually I'm treated to a beautiful view out my large window, free Wi-Fi, good food and plenty of time to catch up on some reading or a little bit of work.
Most of my train travel has been in Europe, and although I've taken Amtrak trains numerous times before using a wheelchair, my experience with Amtrak as a full-time wheelchair user has been very limited. That's why I was so incredibly excited to win the Amtrak "Take Me There" contest earlier this year and to have the opportunity to share information about my experience on the overnight car train from Sanford, Florida to Lorton, Virginia as a wheelchair user! Here's more about my accessible adventure with Amtrak.
What Autotoget is all about
The Amtrak Auto Train is a great way to transport your vehicle without having to drive or deal with the stress of traffic or having to stop for food or gas. The train has only two stop and start points: Sanford, Florida (about 30 minutes north ofOrlando) and Lorton, Virginia (about 30 minutes south of Washington, DC). Depending on freight traffic, the trip takes approximately 17 to 18 hours each way, with only one stop in the middle of the night for 15 minutes inSouth Carolinato replace crew members. In each direction, the train departs at 16.00 and arrive around 9.00 the following day.
You can bring your car, van, SUV, truck or motorbike on the auto train, which means that your luggage is only limited to what you can fit in your car. A limited number of spaces are available to transport small enclosed trailers, boat trailers, jet skis, trikes (three-wheeled vehicles), sidecars, choppers, etc. Additional fees may apply for these vehicles. For full details regarding the types and specifications of vehicles that can run on Autotoget, pleaseCLICK HERE.
There are a few different ways that wheelchair users can ride the coach: staying in the wheelchair on the bus, moving to a partially reclining carriage seat and stowing your wheelchair, or sleeping in a private accessible compartment. I got a sleeper so I will share my experience with it below.
How to buy a car train ticket as a wheelchair user
To start the process of booking your auto train tickets, it is best to first go toAuto Train page on the Amtrak website HERE. On this page you can see a map of the route, the train schedule and get all sorts of more detailed information about the types of vehicles the train accepts, the accommodation options and much more. The train only runs between Sanford, Florida and Lorton, Virginia, so your odds of booking the wrong train on the wrong route are slim to none.
Once you have clicked on BOOK AUTO TRAIN NOW, you will be taken to a page where you select your travel day and the number and types of passengers to travel. Here, for example, you can choose two people – a passenger with a disability and a companion for a passenger with a disability.
On the following page you will be asked about the specifics of your mobility and what your needs are for any physical assistance. Amtrak has restrictions on both the size and weight of wheelchairs allowed on board. Mobility units must be no more than 30 inches wide, no more than 48 inches long, must have clearance of 2 inches or more, and must not weigh more than 600 pounds, including the occupant. Both manual and electric wheelchairs are welcome on board, and if you only need a wheelchair to help you get on and off the train, manual chairs are available at the stations.
Once you've made your mobility choices, you'll get different pricing options for a wheelchair space for you, a reserved bus seat for your companion, or a Superliner accessible bedroom that you can share. There is also the option for your companion to have their own Superliner Roomette if you both want more space.
Prices will vary depending on the departure date. I selected the trial date for a February 3rd Sanford departure and a February 10th Lorton return date. If you choose to share the Superliner Accessible Bedroom, the subtotal for the room would be $686.70. You can't ride the car train unless you take a vehicle with you, and the cost for a minivan like mine would be another $416.
You can also pay an additional $125 for priority vehicle unloading, which means your vehicle will be one of the first 30 to be taken off the train at each stop. And you have the option of protecting your trip with Allianz travel insurance for $30 per traveler. Just as a sample price, for this trip on these particular dates with a Superliner available bedroom, no priority vehicle unloading and no travel insurance, the total cost for two people round trip would be $1102.70.
Arrival at the station and vehicle check-in
Since I live only 15 minutes away from the Sanford Auto Train station, that was my first starting point, and hence the check-in. The latest you can check in is 14.30, and the earliest you can arrive is 11.30 am. For wheelchair users, 2.30pm is far too late, as I boarded the train at 14.15. You can pay extra for priority loading and unloading of vehicles but since I didn't have that I tried to come a bit later after reading thatmaybeyyybethe last vehicles on the train are the first to get off. I checked in at 1 p.m., and I was fourth from last to read. So much for that theory! Although there were relatively few people on my train, so it's possible that most people arrived after I did.
The vehicle check-in and loading process works largely as a valet service. Because there are specific buttons to push with my available van, I printed the instructions for this and taped them to my steering wheel for the drivers. I also put my transfer seats in a position to drive the vehicle normally using the pedals. They never reached out to me for help, so I guess they had no problem driving my van onto the train and then backing out of it in Virginia. At check in they placed a magnet on the driver side door with a number on it. This is the number I would look for at pickup to claim my vehicle.
Once inside the terminal, I went to the check-in counter. There they gave me a pocket brochure with my vehicle number written on the front and my boarding pass and food voucher on the inside. I was asked to keep it with me so that I could remember which number to look for on the screen in the Lorton terminal to collect my vehicle.
Take as few belongings as humanly possible on the train as space will be very limited. Passengers are allowed two carry-on bags not to exceed 28" x 22" x 14" and 50 pounds each, and two personal items not to exceed 14" x 11" x 7" and 25 pounds each. That said, I didn't see anyone measuring or weighing passenger bags. I think they pretty much know that the passengers will be the ones paying the price for exceeding these limits with significantly reduced cabin space.
Board the train
Wheelchair users in accessible spaces are the first to board and I boarded 15 minutes before everyone else started so I could get comfortable. My cabin steward, affectionately known as Big Chris (he’s 6’7″), helped me onboard using onelightweight metal rampwhich the station had recently acquired. I definitely needed it to span the gap, but it's the train itself that was maybe only two or 3 inches higher than the actual platform.
After rolling onto the train, I turned left and walked down a short aisle into my available compartment. A short while after boarding, Big Chris came to my compartment to give me an overview of what the train ride would be like. He showed me every feature of the room, took my meal order and asked me my preferred meal delivery times, asked me when I wanted toe service and showed me how to call him if I needed help or anything delivered to my room
My available sleeping space
My sleeping cabin on Autotoget is called a Superliner Accessible Bedroom, and it is designed for two people. They are at opposite ends of the train carriage, so that it takes up the entire width of the train with a window on each side. On one side there are two seats facing each other that lay flat to form the lower bunk bed. Just above it is a slightly narrower upper bunk that can be reached by means of two stairs embedded in the wall next to one of the seats.
On a panel next to one of the seats you'll find a light switch, a power outlet, the dials for the audio channels (1-Notifications only, 2-Motown, 3-Blend) and a temperature control button, which I believe does nothing. You will also find a cabin steward call button. Between the two seats is a folding table that can be pulled out. Each passenger also gets two bottles of water. There is only one outlet for the entire room, so if you have larger power needs, bring an extension cord or power outlet.
On the other side of the room is a sink with mirror and a toilet with handle. Both the lavatory and the sink function similarly to those found on a vacuum section aircraft. Amtrak provides several towels, washcloths, soap, toilet paper and paper towels. There is no shower available. There is a curtain you can use to separate the toilet from the sitting area and there is a grab bar and two hangers on the wall behind the curtain.
You can request a specific time for unsealing between 19.00 and 21.00. Each passenger is equipped with two pillows, sheets on the bed and a thin blanket. If you are picky about your pillows or if you get cold easily, you are free to bring your own pillow and/or blanket. Everyone is different, but I was perfectly fine with the pillows and blankets that Amtrak provided.
Space was tight in my sleeping cabin. Please take me seriously when I say this because many electric scooter users and larger electric wheelchair users who cannot take any steps will probably have a very difficult time fitting into this space. For reference, minWhill Model Ci el-stolis 39" long and 23.5" wide. This makes it almost exactly the same size as a standard manual wheelchair. I could turn around and maneuver in the compartment without having to open the door. However, it usually took several point turns to do this.
I took several measurements in the room to help you decide if it would work for you and your mobility:
- Length of room (door to wall): 56″
- Length of sitting area/bed: 78″
- Width of seats/bed: 28"
- Bed height: 20"
- Overall width of room (window to window): 113"
- Width of floor space: 85"
- Space between seats: 22"
- Height of toilet: 18"
For a drawing of the room layout and all the details from the Amtrak website, pleaseCLICK HERE.
The passenger experience
I had two very different experiences driving the auto train, as I had a professional companion on the way north and was all alone on the way south. I took a Kindle with me that was preloaded with several movies, knowing that the internet connection could be spotty, but I never needed to use it. I spent pretty much all my waking hours chatting with my travel buddy as we both work in travel and really hit it off. Time flew by and we were in Northern Virginia before we even knew it.
My trip back was very calm and very relaxing. I had a ton of work to do, so from the moment I boarded the train to the time I disembarked, I worked pretty much during my waking hours. I loved that I had no television and some really relaxing music to listen to even though there were only two channels in my room. I have a very comfortable electric chair, but I preferred to move from my chair to one of the seats next to the window to work, eat and also enjoy the view.
The earlier you arrive at the station for check-in, the more options you have for your food delivery, although I think you can pretty much choose any of the three times if you're in a wheelchair compartment. On the way north I had dinner at 18, and on the way south I had dinner delivered at 19. Because the train sometimes arrives early, they recommend having breakfast delivered no later than I woke up at 6:30 both mornings.
My cabin stewards for both journeys were absolutely fantastic – Big Chris heading north and Sam heading south. I had a call button in my room that I could use for anything I needed them to bring me, including coffee, tea, water or anything else.
Arrival and collection of vehicles
When we arrived at Lorton, Virginia, I got off the train the same way I got on - rolling over a sturdy metal ramp to bridge the train and the platform. From there I just rolled it straight to the station terminal.
When you arrive at the terminal, wait for your vehicle to be loaded by the train. There are screens next to the terminal exit that show the numbers on the magnets attached to your vehicle at the departure point. When your number appears on the screen, your vehicle is ready for pickup right off the exit.
My car was unloaded about 40 minutes after we arrived and was completely undamaged. Before getting into your vehicle, check that your rear view mirrors have been unfolded as the crew will fold them back in wider vehicles to ensure they fit or don't get ripped off during the loading process.
The trip home
I was lucky that my cabin steward on the northbound trip advised me to arrive early at Lorton Auto Train station for my return journey. It's October, which means snowbird season is in full swing. He told me that the station gates don't open until 10:00. 11.30, but that cars would start queuing already at 10.30 am. He also said the train would likely be fully booked with probably 90% senior citizens heading to Florida for the season.
Thanks to a minor traffic delay I arrived at Lorton station at 11.30, and there were already probably 30 cars in front of me. However, I didn't wait very long in line, and while the station was already full of people, the check-in process took no more than 10 minutes. The boarding process was identical to that at Sanford, and my train compartment was also identical, albeit in a different train car.
The southbound scenery was really lovely heading into sunset as we drove through Virginia and passed over the James River. We caught a bit of it the morning we arrived, but I definitely preferred my view out the window heading south.
General observations and things wheelchair users should know
Passengers in general and wheelchair users specifically on Autotoget should know that the train moves A LOT. Please note that the majority of the more serious movements are lateral or side to side of the train. If you have very limited control of your upper body, make sure you are strapped securely to your chair to prevent unwanted movements of your body. If you choose to stay in your seat for at least part of the ride, I will position your seat so that it faces either the front of the train to the back of the train for the safest position. Take extra care when transferring or transferring to and from the toilet and/or seat and/or bed. The train slows down occasionally, usually when passing through a major city or a busy intersection. If you can, take advantage of this to make your transfers.
I can't speak to the noise level in the train section. In my cabin the noise was no louder than what you would hear on an airplane. If you are a very light sleeper, feel free to use earplugs or even take a sleep aid if you think the train movement will disturb your sleep. Be aware that you will be physically pushed around a lot during the night. If you have a partner or companion or family member sleeping on the top bunk, there are seat belts for them to use.
There is free Wi-Fi on the Autotoget. But the speed and quality varies, and sometimes you'll get dead spots when passing through more rural areas. My Wi-Fi access was pretty good on the northbound trip, but non-existent on the southbound trip. Plan to use your data for internet access occasionally or as a mobile hotspot as needed. I just downloaded a bunch of movies to my Kindle using my Wi-Fi at home before I left, knowing that streaming wouldn't be an option.
The car train has two levels, and both the lounge car and the dining car are located on the second level. There is no lift access, so you will basically be limited to your available sleeping cabin for the entire duration of the journey. Having said that, the customer service on the train is absolutely fantastic and my incredible cabin steward brought me everything I needed including my meals. All I had to do was press my steward call button and he would come right away. I actually really enjoyed the privacy as the hallway was extremely quiet and I could barely hear my fellow passengers using the bathrooms down the hall.
Take as little on board the train as possible. As I mentioned earlier, the space is very tight. It would be ideal if you could stick it to a backpack or small duffel bag. The more space you fill with your things, the less room there is to maneuver in your chair. I also recommend that you either bring some snacks from home or buy some snacks in the small convenience store inside the terminal. Hot drinks and water are available to you at all times, but you won't be able to buy anything to eat between meals if you get hungry.
Speaking of food, my dinner was delicious. With the exception of the lasagna, dinner is prepared to order. I had salmon with a lemony cream sauce, wild rice and mixed vegetables. This came with a small side salad and warm rolls. I was expecting airplane quality food so I was pleasantly surprised by how good it was. Breakfast was continental which was two small bagels (lightly toasted) with butter and jam, a banana and packaged coffee cake. You also get juice and/or coffee/tea.
I was incredibly impressed with Amtrak's customer service at every point of my journey. From the staff and station manager at the terminal to my personal cabin steward and others that I spoke to, to those who drove my car on and off the train, I was greeted with nothing but warmth and friendliness. Albert, the Auto Train Operations Supervisor, makes it a point to try to visit every train passenger and I saw him twice on the train and once at the station after our arrival in Virginia. I am confident that Amtrak will take very good care of you on the car train.
Overall, I really enjoyed my experience on the auto train. Despite the considerable train movement, I found it relaxing and I loved the privacy of my own compartment without any interruptions from my fellow passengers. The best part was probably how easy it all was. The whole process is very efficient, and unlike an airport, I didn't have to worry about long checkout lines or going through an invasive security screening (the stations have police officers with dog units and security cameras).
It was also great to have my own wheelchair accessible van with me in less time than it would have taken me to drive to Northern Virginia alone. Due to spasticity in my legs and general stiffness in my body if I am in the same position for too long, I generally prefer not to run more than five hours in a day. With this schedule, it would have taken me three days to reach the Washington, DC area from central Florida. Admittedly, I didn't sleep well on the train because of all the movement. But at least I felt comfortable and my body wasn't sore and tired from three days of driving or stressed from the anxiety of traffic and construction.
Most importantly, I didn't have to worry about my wheelchair being damaged or lost. I also wasn't limited to just what I could carry with me, as I could put souvenirs or extra bags or pretty much anything in my minivan for storage. Hopefully this is an experience that will work for you too and I can't wait to hear all about it!
As the winner of the #AmtrakTakeMeThere contest and an Amtrak ambassador, my round-trip car train ticket and financial reimbursement for expenses were provided to me by Amtrak. All of the information in this post is factual and based on my first-hand experience as an auto train passenger, both to provide Amtrak with feedback and potential passengers with train availability information.
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FAQs
Can you ride Amtrak if you're in a wheelchair? ›
Most Amtrak stations in major cities, and many other stations across the country, are accessible to passengers with a disability. Amtrak is committed to ensuring that its facilities are fully accessible and is continually working on accessibility improvements.
What is accessible seating on Amtrak? ›Accessible Seating
Accessible space is available on all trains for passengers with disabilities and mobility impairments.
Unlike many long-haul Amtrak trains, there's no observation car because most of the scheduled 17-hour trip is done at night.
How do people in wheelchairs get on trains? ›To know where to get on the train, look for the wheelchair symbol marked on train platforms. At the first door of the first carriage, the driver can provide a ramp to help you get on and off the train.
Can you get up and walk around on an Amtrak train? ›You're allowed to walk about the train as often as you'd like. Just make sure to watch where you're walking onboard the train between cars. The safety plates often shift and pinch when the train is in motion.
Can you take a mobility scooter on the train? ›Rights and Mobility Scooters
There is no right to take your mobility scooter by rail set out in law, it isn't a statutory right. So there is no guarantee of whether you can get your mobility scooter on to a train. It comes down to the individual rail service provider's discretion.
WHEELCHAIR TRANSFER SEAT
A transfer seat allows users in a wheelchair or mobility scooter to safely transfer from their mobility device into their vehicle's factory seating. From there, the user can drive or ride as a passenger in the front seat without the use of their mobility device.
Bringing Your Food Aboard
You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars.
Passenger mobility refers to the movement of people using any kind of motorised, non-motorised, collective or individual means of transportation.
Do you tip the attendant on the Amtrak Auto Train? ›General Guidelines: Tipping is NOT required, but is considered correct for the service crew personnel on the train. Recommendations: Snack bar attendant: roughly 10%. Dining car: 15% of menu prices (sleeping car passengers may want to note this when ordering their meals).
How long does it take to unload cars from the Amtrak Auto Train? ›
If the train has been crowded it can take well over an hour until the last car is unloaded. Passengers who chose to pay an extra fee when they made their Auto Train reservations will have their vehicles among the first 30 that are unloaded. On average, expect to wait about 45 minutes before you receive your car.
What can you carry on the Auto Train? ›Baggage on the Auto Train
Auto Train does not offer checked baggage service, but you may pack baggage inside your vehicle (you may not access your vehicle in route). Each traveler is allowed two carry-on bags.
- Enter Your PNR No. & click on "Search"
- Enter required details, then click on "Book"
- You will get the complete booking details. Click on "Print Voucher" for Voucher.
Train networks across the world, including Amtrak in the United States, can accommodate both manual and powered wheelchairs. Due to the gaps between the train and station platform, “bridge plates” and ramps are used to allow wheelchairs to roll smoothly onto the train.
Can a wheelchair go on a train? ›Most trains can accommodate wheelchairs that are within the dimensions prescribed in government regulations covering public transport (700mm wide by 1200mm long). There are a small number of older trains that can only currently carry wheelchairs that have a maximum width of 550mm.
Can you sleep in coach on the Amtrak auto train? ›- Choose Your Seat Wisely. Your journey begins by choosing the right seat for sleep. ...
- Bring a Neck Pillow. ...
- Wear Comfortable Clothing (& Shoes) ...
- Pack Earplugs and Eye Mask. ...
- Bring a Blanket. ...
- Travel with a Friend. ...
- Bring Your Own Snacks and Water. ...
- Adjust Your Seat.
Sleeping car passengers are furnished with a full set of blankets and pillows, so don't need to worry about it.
Can you take your shoes off on Amtrak? ›Leave personal food items and baggage at your seat. Wear shoes at all times and use caution when wearing shoes without rubber soles.
Can you take an electric wheelchair on an Amtrak train? ›Manual and battery powered: Amtrak permits both manually operated and battery powered wheeled mobility devices that meet these specifications. See specific dimensions that each train and route can accommodate.
Can I take an electric scooter on Amtrak? ›Amtrak treats electric scooters the same as electric bicycles. There are no restrictions to taking a battery-powered mode of transportation on board as long as it is stowed properly. The added bonus to taking a Varla electric scooter is its size.
Do you have to pay to take a mobility scooter on a plane? ›
Arrange assistance: Most airlines will take your scooter free of charge, and if you make the necessary arrangements ahead of time you will have greater peace of mind while travelling – you should give at least 48 hours notice, or more.
What does wheelchair walk to seat mean? ›SSR WCHS - Unable to walk long distance or use stairs, can walk to seat. You are able to walk short distances but require assistance getting to and from the aircraft and are unable to ascend or descend aircraft steps. You must be able to walk to your seat once onboard.
What is a Bruno seat? ›The economical Valet turning automotive seat by Bruno helps you get in and out of a taller vehicle comfortably. At the push of a button the seat power rotates, extends and lowers, making travel easy and safe. Fully powered: rotates, extends, moves up/down. One-button operation via hand-held control.
What is the difference between a travel chair and a wheelchair? ›Transport chairs have 8”-12” rear wheels that cannot be reached while sitting in the chair. Wheelchairs, however, are built with larger 18”-24” wheels topped with an easy-to-grip, rotating handrail that allow users to propel themselves forward.
Can you bring a full suitcase on Amtrak? ›You + Two Bags = No Extra Charge
Unlike many transportation options, traveling with Amtrak is twice as nice with our generous baggage policy. When you travel with us, you can carry-on two free pieces of luggage. Each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and needs to be 28 x 22 x 14 inches in size.
Plan to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart (Auto Train passengers should arrive at the station at least two hours prior to departure).
Can coach passengers eat in the dining car on Amtrak? ›If you're traveling in coach on some of Amtrak's long-distance train services, you'll now have the opportunity to use the dining car onboard. Coach passengers will now be able to enjoy full-fledged meals for an additional cost in the dining car, which was a beloved service removed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is a wheelchair passenger? ›WCHC (Wheelchair Carry) Assistance to the aircraft seat: A passenger who is unable to walk: - but can use a passenger seat with the backrest in the upright position. - cannot move unaided (e.g. on account of paraplegia or advanced multiple sclerosis)
Who is a wheelchair passenger? ›It includes those who are completely immobile, those who can move about only with the help of a wheelchair or any other means and those who require assistance at all times from arrival at the airport to being seated on the aircraft or if necessary in a special seat fitted to their specific needs, and the same process ...
Where do wheelchair users sit on planes? ›Bulkhead seating typically works best for wheelchair users since it's the first row of seats in economy class. By requesting a bulkhead seat, you can avoid being wheeled farther back in the plane, and the bulkhead seats usually allow more legroom and space to transfer.
Should I bring a pillow on auto train? ›
Skip the towels and sheets
Facial, hand and body towels are all included, and your train attendant will make your bed for you at night and put it away for you in the morning whenever you want. We also provide pillows, but you're free to bring additional ones. Just remember space is at a premium in our room!
What to expect in coach. Upon check-in at the station, you'll receive a ticket with your seat assignment. Passengers may board starting at 2:30 p.m. Many travelers opt to bring pillows, and some covered their seats with bedsheets from home.
How are seats assigned on auto train? ›Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation. You may change your assigned seat and choose a different seat at any time after your booking is complete by viewing your reservation in the Amtrak app or on Amtrak.com. There is no fee to change your seat.
What is best time to arrive at Auto Train? ›But note that you have to be at the train station by 2:30 p.m. – if you aren't there, you won't get the priority unloading – or your money back. Amtrak recommends arriving by 2:00 p.m. We got there just before 2:15 p.m. and were fine, but we cut it a little too close for my comfort.
Is the Auto Train faster than driving? ›It's faster (unless you're cannonballing) and less stressful than driving. The train trip averages 17.5 hours, although my first trip was two hours longer than that due to a middle-of-the-night delay.
What time does the Auto Train arrive in Lorton? ›The Auto Train is easily accessible from its two stations in Lorton, Virginia (approximately 30 minutes from Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, Florida (approximately 30 minutes from Orlando) and departs daily from each station at 4 PM with an arrival of 9 AM the following morning.
Where do you put your luggage on Amtrak train? ›Carry-on and personal items must be kept with you, stored in overhead racks, under seats or designated baggage areas.
Can I bring a cooler on the Amtrak Auto Train? ›A small cooler counts as a carry-on bag, and you can bring snacks, meals, take out food from nearby restaurants and even alcohol on Amtrak (note that to consume alcohol, you must be in a roomette or bedroom).
Where do you put suitcases on a train? ›Small cases and bags can be stored under your seat, medium sized bags can go in the overhead racks and large suitcases must be placed in the luggage racks at the end of each carriage.
How does wheelchair boarding work? ›You are entitled to stay in your own wheelchair until you get to the gate. At the gate, your wheelchair will be taken from you. If you cannot walk, you will be transported to your aircraft seat in an aisle chair. Your wheelchair will be returned to you at the gate once you reach your destination.
Can I book wheelchair accessible seats? ›
Can I buy tickets for accessible seats if I'm not disabled? No, accessible tickets are only for fans with disabilities and their companions. Fans who abuse this policy could have their order canceled.
What is the best way to transport a wheelchair? ›You can either use a portable wheelchair ramp or purchase a trailer with one built in to get the chair in and out. An outside lift will transport any kind of wheelchair or scooter. If you own a small, medium, or large vehicle, you can attach a wheelchair or scooter lift at the rear end of their vehicle.
How do you move a person by a wheelchair or trolley? ›- Move the wheelchair as close as possible to where you are moving the person.
- Transfer on the stronger side of the person's body.
- Lock the wheelchair, and keep it locked while the person is moving into or out of it.
- Have the foot pedals and / or leg rests moved out of the way.
Travel in a wheelchair can be a stressful experience. Making your flight on time, maneuvering through the airport, and wrestling your luggage is hard for anyone. And when you also have an essential piece of medical equipment to keep up with, it can be particularly challenging.
Can you walk around on a train? ›Keep Your Shoes On While Walking Through the Train
You're allowed to walk about the train as often as you'd like. Just make sure to watch where you're walking onboard the train between cars. The safety plates often shift and pinch when the train is in motion.
If you want to get up and stretch your legs, there's plenty of room to walk around, with restrooms conveniently located in every car. On shorter train journeys, Amtrak's Coach Class seats provide a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the view.
Does Amtrak have handicap sleepers? ›For customers traveling with a disability, Accessible Bedrooms are located on the entry-level of the train and offer ample space for a wheelchair. Each room features a sofa for two by day and upper and lower berths by night, plus a big picture window.
How do you travel with a wheelchair? ›- In an overhead compartment;
- Under the seat in front of you; or.
- In a designated stowage area if the device fits and is in accordance with FAA or foreign safety regulations.
Considering accessibility and universal access at the beginning by having 32 inch wide aisles helps avoid these problems. In addition to these five accessible spaces, by the food service car, there will be 3-5 additional accessible spaces depending on the length of the trainset with one in each additional coach car.
What is the difference between a transit wheelchair and a wheelchair? ›A: Transport chair
This is probably the biggest difference between the two devices – with its smaller-sized wheels, the transport chair is a two-person device meant to be pushed by a helper whereas a wheelchair can be propelled independently.
What is the difference between a wheelchair and a transport wheelchair? ›
Transport chairs have 8”-12” rear wheels that cannot be reached while sitting in the chair. Wheelchairs, however, are built with larger 18”-24” wheels topped with an easy-to-grip, rotating handrail that allow users to propel themselves forward.
Can I sit anywhere on Amtrak train? ›Can I choose a specific seat? Not while you're making a reservation. Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation. You may change your assigned seat at any time after your booking is complete using interactive seat maps on the Amtrak app or on Amtrak.com.
How much do you tip an Amtrak attendant? ›Tipping. General Guidelines: Tipping is NOT required, but is considered correct for the service crew personnel on the train. Recommendations: Snack bar attendant: roughly 10%. Dining car: 15% of menu prices (sleeping car passengers may want to note this when ordering their meals).
Is Amtrak fat friendly? ›Although Amtrak does not have an explicit customer of size policy, they do have an “accessible travel request” the process to ensure the safety and comfort of any passenger wanting to travel with them.
How do wheelchair users go to the toilet on a plane? ›How do I use the airplane bathroom if I cannot walk? If you need to use the toilet, ring your call button and ask the flight attendant for assistance to the lavatory. Flight attendants can assist you from your seat to the aisle chair, and will push you to the accessible lavatory onboard.
Is the Auto Train a Viewliner or Superliner? ›The primary difference: a Superliner features two levels of private rooms per car and Viewliner features a single level. For your trip, the type of car will depend on the route you select. Here is a snapshot of where you can expect each car in each part of the country. *The Auto Train features Superliner sleeping cars.
Do you get your own room on Amtrak? ›For a truly unique experience when traveling in First Class, Amtrak offers private rooms on many routes across the country. A private room is the perfect option for customers seeking privacy and space on a short trip and added comfort and amenities when traveling overnight.
What is the largest carry-on Amtrak? ›When you travel with us, you can carry-on two free pieces of luggage. Each item should not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg) and needs to be 28 x 22 x 14 inches in size. For those Amtrak families traveling with infants under the age of two, your baby items (strollers and diaper bags) will not count towards your carry-on limit.