Growing up, every summer featured a road trip. My parents would load up the Mitsubishi Diamante (a vehicle long discontinued) with luggage and snacks and we’d hop on the interstate. We lived in various places as every military family, but Bronx, NY and Tampa, Fl were often the destination. This meant long trips, crammed in the backseat with luggage next to me, trying to get comfortable. Fast forward over twenty years, and I found myself regularly making the trip from Fl up the eastern coast for various family functions and events. If only I had known then about Amtrak’s Auto Train. 

 

Travels Up The East Coast 

I-95 can be a draining driving experience, especially when you’re passing from FL into Georgia and the terrain is so flat and truly uneventful.

If you’re coming south of Orlando, you get the moment of elation seeing the Mickey Mouse electrical lines when you’re near the property but that’s pretty much it. The route travels from Lorton, VA (Washington DC) to Sanford, Florida. 

Your safety is always our top priority; see Amtrak’s current safety precautions here.

 

Seating Accommodations 

Being on the road can be a great exhilaration, but it comes at a price. Usually at a stiff neck, sore back, and menial hygiene cost. On the auto train, once can choose a private room (restroom, shower, and beds in the evening), roomette restroom and show nearby, special accommodations for families with small children or special needs members. 

 

Culinary Experience 

I don’t know about you, but when I road trip, I’m often eating junk while in the car and if I’m lucky, maybe a fast food stop typically around fill-up time.

Making the drive up the east coast, there have been times when it’s too late or early for any food places so you end up just gnawing on the gum you have or just try to sleep away the hunger. On the auto train not only are meals included (dinner and continental breakfast), but they can be customized for dietary needs.

 

Luggage Storage

Long trips often require extra clothes, thus extra luggage. With checked bags fees climbing each year, it can cost an arm and a leg just to have your necessities travel with you on a plane. But on the auto train, you can load up your vehicle with as much luggage as you want.

Even if you’re an auto train ticket holder, you can carry on bags as well so you can access your essentials during the trip. 

Upcoming relocation? Don’t stress about how to transport your vehicle. Amtrak’s Auto Train seems like a viable option. Not only do you get all these benefits, but it has free WiFi as well!

 

At BAM Fleet, we care about all the places your car will travel to. Before you hit the road whether to road trip or taking the Auto Train, you’ll want to make sure your vehicle maintenance is complete. With everything else going on in your busy life, our Tampa area mobile car care and detailing service can handle it all. Schedule service with Butler Automotive Management today!