Booking an auto train trip involves a few more decisions than a typical train ticket, since you're also arranging vehicle transport and choosing an accommodation type. This guide walks through the process from start to finish so you know exactly what to expect and what information to have ready.
Before You Book: What to Have Ready
- Your preferred travel dates, plus one or two backup dates in case your first choice is limited.
- The number of passengers traveling, including any children.
- Basic vehicle details — type, size, and whether it's a standard car, SUV, motorcycle, or electric vehicle.
- Your accommodation preference: coach seating, roomette, or bedroom.
- A payment method and any discount or promotional information you plan to apply.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Step 1 — Decide on your route and travel direction, confirming your departure and arrival stations.
- Step 2 — Select your travel dates and compare available fare tiers for those dates.
- Step 3 — Choose your accommodation type based on comfort preference and budget.
- Step 4 — Enter your vehicle details accurately, since size and type affect the transport fee.
- Step 5 — Add passenger information for everyone traveling in your party.
- Step 6 — Review the full price breakdown before payment, checking that passenger fare, vehicle fee, and accommodation cost are all reflected correctly.
- Step 7 — Complete payment and save your confirmation details for check-in day.
Choosing the Right Accommodation When Booking
If you're unsure which accommodation to select, think about trip length, budget, and how much privacy matters to you. Coach seating works well for cost-conscious travelers comfortable with a shared seating area, while a roomette or bedroom suits those who want a private space and included meals for an overnight journey. Our accommodation comparison guide breaks this down in more detail.
Adding Your Vehicle to the Reservation
Vehicle information should be entered as accurately as possible during booking, since discrepancies between what you booked and what you bring can cause delays or additional charges at check-in. If you're unsure how your vehicle is categorized, checking the vehicle information section of the site or contacting support beforehand can prevent surprises on travel day.
Payment and Confirmation
Once payment is processed, you should receive a confirmation with your reservation details, including passenger names, accommodation type, and vehicle information. It's worth reviewing this confirmation closely and keeping a copy — digital or printed — accessible for check-in.
Making Changes After You Book
Plans change, and most bookings can be modified or canceled, though policies and any applicable fees depend on how close to departure the change is made. See our changes and cancellations guide for a full breakdown of what to expect if you need to adjust your reservation.
Common Booking Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating vehicle size or type, which can lead to fee adjustments later.
- Booking accommodation without checking what's included, then being surprised at what coach seating does or doesn't offer.
- Waiting too long to book popular travel dates, especially around holidays.
- Not double-checking passenger names and travel dates before completing payment.
- Skipping the confirmation review step and missing an error in the reservation details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I book my vehicle and accommodation separately?
A: Typically, vehicle transport and accommodation are booked together as part of one reservation, since both are tied to the same travel date and route.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: Booking as early as your plans allow is generally recommended, particularly for popular dates, since fare tiers and accommodation availability can sell out.
Q: What happens if I make a mistake on my booking?
A: Most reservation details can be corrected after booking, though it's best to contact support as soon as you notice an error to avoid complications at check-in.
Q: Do I need to print my confirmation, or is digital fine?
A: A digital confirmation is generally accepted, but having it easily accessible on your phone or printed as a backup is a good habit for travel day.
Once your booking is confirmed, review our travel checklist and packing guide to make sure you're fully prepared before departure day.