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I travelled Amtrak to our Convention in Chicago last summer and discovered a couple things. I packed as though I was flying and thought that I could check luggage (especially since my confirmation included information about checked luggage!). I had files for all the chapters I oversee, a 12 pack of diet pepsi (to avoid paying the $2 a bottle they charge you in hotel vending machines), all of my formal gowns, a laptop, makeup, shoes, etc. So, I had a pullman suitcase, a garment bag and two carry ons. I get to the train station to find out that they don't check luggage on this route and that I am to carry on my own stuff, up the train steps, etc. I hurriedly dashed to my car, ditched the files, the soda, the laptop and consolidated to a garment bag and a carry on! These were SO heavy that I actually bruised my shoulder and upper arm with them while I dragged them to the train, etc.
I enjoyed taking the train, other than the luggage issue and if I'd known, I would have prepared differently. So, for a short trip, if you can travel light, it's nice. The food in the dining car isn't great so I'd take sandwiches and snacks. There are some routes where you can check luggage and some have sleeper cars, but not the Detroit to Chicago route!
Dee
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