My family will be taking the Zephyr in a few days. We are debating taking the portable computer. I do not want to have to bring it with us every time we go to a meal or the lounge, but there seems to be no way to lock doors of bedroom when we are not in it. Does anyone have suggestions? The computer would allow us unlimited digital pix, because we cuold download during the trip.
Posted by Geoff Mayo (Member # 153) on :
Hide it. Try to make sure nobody knows you've got one (close the curtains to the corridor when using it) and just hide it in a bag or under the seat. There is no way that I know of to lock the door from the outside.
Geoff.
Posted by gadaniels (Member # 334) on :
You can buy a laptop lock kit and then lock it up by attaching it to something immovable in the room.
Posted by royaltrain (Member # 622) on :
Anything expensive such as computers cameras, etc. ought not to be left un-attended in your bedroom. The doors cannot be locked from the outside, and there is no on-board train security. I recall a few years ago on the SW Chief, someone stole a lady's handbag which she left in her bedroom. Obviously it would be impractical to drag all your possessions with you when you are in the dining or lounge cars, but I always carry my expensive camera with me and leave the cheaper things in the bedroom, hoping that thieves wouldn't bother with my walkman or personal clothing.
Posted by CK (Member # 589) on :
Royaltrain is correct. There is no on board security. The idea is for each car attendant to monitor the activity within their car. It doesn't work well. Car attendants have many other duties. Take your most valuable items(s) with you. If there too large you might want to consider leaving them at home. I've often seen "passengers" in cars that they are not assigned, including sleeping cars, just walking, and "looking" around. Amtrak does have it's own Police Department but they are usually seen at Union Stations and not on the trains. They do a good job, but they too, are understaffed. All things considered, it's still a Great way to travel. Have Fun!
Posted by reggierail (Member # 26) on :
I have never had a problem Or heard of any problems in the sleeping cars. The sleepers are separated from the rest of the train by the dining car & the dining staff becomes familiar with who's in the sleeper & coach as they give different meal tickets to each. As a precaution, I would not leave your valuables where someone walking by could see them & I would draw the curtains & close the door when I leave the room. Have a great trip & be sure & let us know how your trip was. Yours, Reggie
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Posted by Mr. Toy (Member # 311) on :
I have left cameras unattended in both sleepers and coach seats. I have always concealed them out of sight when I walk away, but I have never had a problem. Laptops are much more expensive than cameras though, and thus a more tempting target. I think the idea of using one of those lock kits (Kensington Locks, I believe they are called). Its just a cable with a lock that attaches to a special hole in the side of your computer.
------------------ Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth. -Mr. Toy
Posted by yummykaz (Member # 475) on :
I would leave under sheets etc and CLOSE the door. If the door is closed or curtain pulled, someone would be most bold to enter your sleeping chamber.
One time a passenger I was eating with in diner told me of a possible pick pocket kid on board. I went back to my room and grabbed my video camera!