posted
In pricing a June trip on the California Zephyr, I noticed a substantial price differential traveling westard versus eastward. From Emeryville to Washington, DC, 2 adults with standard sleeper was $577.50 taking advantage of current sale promotions. From DC to Emeryville the fare was $802.5, a difference of $225. June 30th was used from DC and Emeryville as departure dates for the one way comparison. The roundtrip fare was $1,462.50.
I assume the obvious answer is the supply/demand factor. I know Amtrak adopted some time ago the fare pricing structure used by airlines (higher during holiday times and shorter reservation time) to increase their bottom line.
A second option for us is to fly one way, rail the other. At a $225 difference, the choice is easy. Comments are welcome.
Russell in Va
reggierail Member # 26
posted
The fares are based on how much space is available on any particular train. Try a day or two earlier or later and the price difference could favor the other direction of travel. I prefer travel west bound on the Zephyr.
Reggie
Mr. Toy Member # 311
posted
I agree with Regggie. I found out last year that sleeper fares not only vary with the season, but also with different days of the week. I saved $50 last year on the Starlight by returning a day later than originally planned.
------------------ Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth. -Mr. Toy
posted
Ditto. The price difference one or two days earlier or later can be double.
Geoff Mayo Member # 153
posted
Sorry, I can't resist this, but Mr Toy - did you spend more than that $50 you saved on a hotel room for the extra night, plus food etc.?!?!?
Geoff M.
Mr. Toy Member # 311
posted
quote:Originally posted by geoffm: Sorry, I can't resist this, but Mr Toy - did you spend more than that $50 you saved on a hotel room for the extra night, plus food etc.?!?!?
Geoff M.
Nope. I was staying with family which costs nothing. I actually didn't realize I was going to save money on my ticket until my mother persuaded me to stay an extra day. I then got a fare quote for the revised dates and learned of the savings.
------------------ Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth. -Mr. Toy
posted
I have also found that fares can change within a day or two. I have checked on fares the same day and found them to change with the same itiniery.
What I found unusual was the exact same departure days had the price difference.
posted