Are Amtrak Sleeping Cars Equipped with WiFi and Power Outlets?

Amtrak's sleeping cars are a valuable asset for travelers who require a comfortable and convenient overnight train journey. They are typically available on overnight schedules but are somewhat divided by route into one-level and two-level cars, with a few exceptions of routes that use both.

One of the standout features of Amtrak's sleeping cars is the presence of power outlets, ensuring that travelers can keep their devices charged throughout their journey.

Additionally, while not all Amtrak routes feature WiFi, the majority do offer this connectivity option. However, for those routes that do not offer WiFi, it is often due to the inconsistent availability of cell tower signals, particularly in more remote areas of the route.

The Layout of Amtrak's Sleeping Cars

Sleeping compartments on Amtrak trains are divided into two general categories: roomettes and bedrooms. Roomettes are smaller and more basic, while bedrooms offer a more spacious layout with a private bathroom. Typically, one-level cars are more common for roomettes, whereas two-level cars are preferred for bedrooms, offering more space.

Regardless of the car type, all sleeping compartments and seat arrangements on Amtrak trains come equipped with power outlets. This is a standard feature on modern passenger trains around the world, ensuring that travelers can keep their electronic devices charged.

WiFi Availability on Amtrak Routes

While power outlets are a standard feature, the availability of WiFi varies by route. There are a total of 37 Amtrak routes, and out of these, 27 routes have WiFi services available. The trains that do not offer WiFi are the following: California Zephyr, Capitol Limited, City of New Orleans, Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, Heartland Flyer, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, and Texas Eagle.

One route, the Coast Starlight, serves as a prime example of modern amenities in Amtrak's sleeping cars. I recently traveled on this route and can confirm that the sleeper cars indeed have power outlets, allowing travelers to keep their devices charged throughout their journey. However, it is worth noting that the Coast Starlight did once offer WiFi, but this service has been discontinued.

The decision to remove WiFi was likely due to the train's reliance on cell tower signals for connectivity. Many sections of the Coast Starlight's route pass through areas with no service, making it difficult to provide a reliable and consistent internet experience. Therefore, Amtrak may have determined that the cost and infrastructure required to maintain a WiFi service did not justify the benefits for its passengers.

Finding the Perfect Route for Your Travel Needs

If you're considering a long-distance train trip with Amtrak, it's essential to check the specific route you'll be traveling on to determine whether WiFi and power outlets will be available. This information can be found on Amtrak's official website or by contacting customer service directly.

Overall, Amtrak's sleeping cars provide a comfortable and convenient experience for overnight travelers, with standardized power outlets as a key feature. While WiFi services vary, the availability of electrical charging options ensures that travelers can stay connected and charged during their journey.