Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Adds Extra Trains and Free Bags for the Holidays

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner expects a surge in passengers this Thanksgiving season as more travelers choose trains over congested airports and highways. The operator is adding extra train cars and extending seating capacity to meet higher demand along its 351-mile coastal corridor.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Prepares for Record Holiday Travel

The service connects San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties, serving 29 stations. Because the Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest periods, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner urges travelers to plan ahead and book early.

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Morning departures generally have more available seats than later trains, and advance reservations help avoid last-minute issues.

Passengers can upgrade to Business Class for guaranteed seating and additional comfort. Business Class includes extra legroom, complimentary snacks and drinks, and priority boarding. The option remains popular among travelers seeking a quieter, more relaxed ride during peak travel days.

Between November 22 and December 4, Pacific Surfliner offers free checked baggage service at staffed stations. Each passenger may check up to four bags during this promotional period. This benefit is designed to simplify travel for families and passengers carrying gifts or large luggage.

To ensure adequate space for ticketed customers, the Rail 2 Rail and Code Share programs will be temporarily suspended from November 26 through December 1. These adjustments allow the operator to maintain reliable service and reduce overcrowding on peak days.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Emphasizes Safety, Flexibility, and Comfort

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner encourages passengers to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding. Travelers can modify or cancel reservations through the Amtrak app, Amtrak.com, by phone at 800-USA-RAIL, or at staffed stations prior to departure. This flexibility helps passengers adjust plans easily during the busy season.

Safety remains a top priority. The “See Something, Say Something” program reminds travelers to report unattended items or suspicious activity. Passengers can contact train crews, call (800) 331-0008, dial 911, or text APD11 (27311) to reach Amtrak Police. These measures strengthen public awareness and ensure secure travel for all riders.

Amtrak provides detailed holiday schedules, service updates, and travel tips on PacificSurfliner.com/Holiday. The official site also lists onboard amenities, baggage policies, and accessibility information.

Pacific Surfliner remains the busiest state-supported intercity passenger rail route in the United States, carrying millions of riders annually.

The route highlights California’s scenic coastline and demonstrates how intercity rail can offer a sustainable, convenient alternative to driving or flying.

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