- Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass, priced at $499, is a great option for solo travelers.
- The average cost of each rail trip is $50.
- The slow-travel journey was made more enjoyable by the connections that were made with fellow travelers.
Luna Buttiens, two days before she embarked on a five week journey through the United States on her own splurged spontaneously on an item: Amtrak USA Rail Pass For $499.
The 25-year old Belgian who has lived in New York City, since September 2024, said: “I wanted explore more of America, and buying a Rail Pass was the perfect way to achieve this.” People.
Investment quickly paid off. She was able, for one price, to travel by train in the United States on 10 separate segments over 30 days. She could choose from 500 different destinations. Each train ride cost her an average of $50.
Buttiens took advantage of this deal, travelling coast to coast and exploring cities including Washington, D.C., Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, San Diego, New Orleans, Miami, etc. She explored each city to get to know them. American citiesShe realized that traveling was not just about ticking off sights.
She said, “I was always welcomed with open hearts. It reminded me that a place’s true spirit isn’t only in its streets and landmarks, but also in the people who live there.” She said that since she was traveling solo, “the kindness and warmth of strangers” played the most important role in her journey.
Of course there were a few hurdles along the way, in particular sitting—and sleeping—in a coach class seat, Amtrak’s lowest cabin offering. The pass is not currently available for Business Class or Private Rooms. The seats are spacious and wide, they recline at a comfortable angle and include leg rests. However, after several overnight flights in confined spaces, her body began to feel the effects.
She said, “My back began to hurt after multiple nights spent on the train. So I recommend getting a massage following your trip.” Since she traveled in the off season, it was often possible to get two seats for herself.
Slow travel was worth it. She journaled her thoughts and reflected on the hours between Denver San Francisco. “Traveling by train is about fully accepting where you are—not counting down the time until you get ‘there,'” she wrote. “This is very different from flying where you are focused on getting to your destination quickly. While on the train, I have noticed that I do not even check my watch.
She continued to say that other train passengers were more willing to talk to strangers and play cards, “and engage in real human interactions instead of staring a tiny screen.” Overall, she said that the experience taught her to be present because “it doesn’t feel like time exists.”
Buttiens was so pleased with the journey that she decided to extend it beyond 30 days. She added a segment in the back. Her total trip lasted from January 28th until March. She rode the rails for 230 hours during this time.
“It wasn’t a deliberate decision, but it was one of the best decisions I could have taken,” she said. “I’ve seen more of this beautiful country through the windows on the train.”
