Revenge travel, revenge spending, revenge everything is in full swing this summer. Trying to make up for over a year’s worth of lost time, people are on the move. Whether you want to get dad a nice last minute gift or see the country without having to deal with traffic, this week’s Fire Finds is here to fulfill your desire to dip. Meet the Amtrak USA Rail Pass.

Why travel by train?

While train travel isn’t the first option that comes to mind for a lot of people, it actually has a lot of perks. The first and foremost thing about train travel is you don’t have to drive. If you’re a daily driver like me, you want your vacation to include time away from the wheel to actually see the sights. Plus, there’s a shortage of rental cars due to the pandemic.

Another reason to hit the rails is cost. You want to get the most bang for your buck and while train travel is costly, it’s still cheaper than flying and you get a nice scenic view to your final destination instead of cement and clouds from a small ass window seat.

Finally, comfort. This one is key. I’m not about to try to get on a crowded plane with unruly people just to sit in a tight economy seat for a few hours to hit up a resort or beach. On a train, you have the freedom to move around and you don’t have to wear a seatbelt! Did we mention no turbulence or bumping take off and landing sequences? Sign me up.

What is the Amtrak USA Rail Pass?

The Amtrak USA Rail Pass let’s you take trips around the country, 10 segments to be exact, on Amtrak. The pass is valid for 120 days after purchase (30 days after first segment is traveled).

How does it work?

Once you purchase the USA Rail Pass, you can book your trip and each segment of it through amtrak.com, your purchase confirmation or Amtrak’s app. Each segment is subtracted from your total of 10. Amtrak defines a segment as “any time you board and disembark one of our trains of other scheduled services.” Just as a heads up, connections count as a segment.

How do I buy one?

The reason I’m hyped for this pass currently is because it’s actually $200 off for a limited time! Amtrak is celebrating its 50th anniversary in style. The Coach Pass Intro Offer (means you can only take coach and not upgrade to Business) is currently $299. That’s comparable to a one-way plane ticket to a big city.

Since the offer expires on June 22, hurry and buy the USA Rail Pass on amtrak.com. The website can also answer any additional questions you may have and provide all conditions.

I hope everyone can go out and enjoy traveling this summer, we all deserve it. Also, pro tip, remember to rack up your credit card points so you can use them towards traveling.

Photo via LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency