My first trip

[ncapps86]

So I decided I'd give Amtrak a try on a return trip home from college. My route is Denver to Chicago via the CZ then Chicago to Charlottesville,VA via the Cardinal. I've been doing a little research and noticed how freight delays can be an issue. I'm afraid that I might miss my connection to CVS. The CZ is due to arrive in Chicago at 3:50 and my connection leaves at 5:45. Should I be worried about missing the Cardinal to CVS? Also is it possible to get some decent sleep in on coach seats?

Thanks for the help,

Sean

 

[the_traveler]

I was worried with the short connection time, but in March, my CZ was running late (which caused me more worries), but actually arrived into CHI early! Besides, the connection is guaranteed, so Amtrak is responsible for getting you there. If worse comes to worse, they could even put you on the CL.

I find that sleeping in coach is easy for 1 night. Two or more nights may be pushing the limits.

 

[Hanno]

So I decided I'd give Amtrak a try on a return trip home from college. My route is Denver to Chicago via the CZ then Chicago to Charlottesville,VA via the Cardinal. I've been doing a little research and noticed how freight delays can be an issue. I'm afraid that I might miss my connection to CVS. The CZ is due to arrive in Chicago at 3:50 and my connection leaves at 5:45. Should I be worried about missing the Cardinal to CVS? Also is it possible to get some decent sleep in on coach seats?
Thanks for the help,

Sean

On a recent trip the CL was running very late and they actually held the SWC for those of us who had connections.

Regarding sleeping in coach...it depends. If you are a sound sleeper it certainly helps. I would suggest rying to get a seat toward the middle of the coach as the opening closing doors can keep one awake. Ear plugs and a sleeping mask have been helpful to some. Personally I have tried too often and now get a roomette or bedroom.

Have a great trip!

 

[p&sr]

I find that sleeping in coach is easy for 1 night. Two or more nights may be pushing the limits.

I find that sleeping in coach is easy for 3 nights. Four or more nights is less pleasant, and should only be done if there is a good reason... (such as proving that you can do it?)

 

[Bierboy]

I find that sleeping in coach is easy for 1 night. Two or more nights may be pushing the limits.

I find that sleeping in coach is easy for 3 nights. Four or more nights is less pleasant, and should only be done if there is a good reason... (such as proving that you can do it?)

I'm to the age where one night in coach is one too much

Sleeper all the way for me....

 

[sky12065]

I find that sleeping in coach is easy for 1 night. Two or more nights may be pushing the limits.

I find that sleeping in coach is easy for 3 nights. Four or more nights is less pleasant, and should only be done if there is a good reason... (such as proving that you can do it?)

I'm to the age where one night in coach is one too much

Sleeper all the way for me....

I guess I I'm just the ultimate sleeper fan. Just thinking about being in coach is too much for me!

 

[ncapps86]

Thanks for the help. Any more insight on the usual delays would be welcomed!

 

[gswager]

The traffic for the freight trains are down due to economy, so the delays are a lot fewer than a year or two ago. Since the connection is guarantee, so you don't have to worry about it. If that happened, Amtrak is responsible to hold a train (depending on how much time), ride a bus to catch up the other train, or even put you in a hotel overnight and board on your next day train. All of these are on Amtrak's expenses, not yours.