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Is it customary to tip coach attendants? I have only ridden in sleepers until now. I am going from Charlotte, NC to Philadelphia, Chicago and Denver, all coach. What are the rules? Thanks.
Geoff Mayo Member # 153
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Considering the level of service given by coach attendants, they don't deserve a tip. I think I may have had somebody nice once, but the rest have generally been surly, unhelpful, and even rude. There may be exceptions - at least, I hope so!
Geoff M.
reggierail Member # 26
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There are no rules about tipping & Amtrak states it is not required. It's also stated that you may tip an employee that renders you exceptional service. Maybe bringing your meal from the diner or a drink from the lounge. I would also like to state that I have met many friendly & helpful coach attendants. I hope we can keep in mind that there have been more & more duties & more cars assigned to a single attendant than ever before. They are assigned for the entire length of the trip & very seldom are allowed the rest needed to work a six day trip or more. I feel they have done a wonderful job, one by the way I would never want to do. Reggie
kjkober Member # 1423
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I tipped my first coach attendant on my trip from LA to Chicago on #4. He "watched my back" for the whole trip, letting me crash the whole night in the imitation sightseer car (really a coach with a cafe downstairs) because the guy assigned to sit next to me was a stinky drunk guy who stole my camera. Eventually he hooked me up with two seats in another car when it became available. He was exceptional and went above and beyond for me.
jackf Member # 1594
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Thanks for the info. My wife and I are traveling from Chicago to Sacramento on the California Zephyr in June. We have reserved a deluxe bedroom and assumed that a generous tip to the porter upon boarding would make for a more pleasant trip. Two questions: How much is appropriate for a two day trip? Will it really make a difference?
Mr. Toy Member # 311
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While it is not required, or even expected, I like to tip coach attendants if they do a reasonably good job. $2-$5 depending on the quality of service is appropriate. Those guys and gals work very hard with very little recognition. It really makes their day when you show a little appreciation.
For a sleeper, $5-10 per night per room is appropriate. Maybe more if the attendant is exceptional.
Whether in coach or a sleeper, tips are usually given when leaving the train, not when boarding.
It is also a good idea to tip dining car servers, even if you are in a sleeper and have meals included in your ticket price. I go by the basic 15% of the meal's value.
------------------ Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth. -Mr. Toy
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Personally I'd rather tip early (I actually do it on the first night when the bed is made up). My theory is that they know you appreciate their service and will thus treat you better for the rest of the trip. On the whole, I'd say it generally works.
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