High Gas Prices Mean Travelers Hit The Trains

As the nation continues to suffer from high gas prices and considers a 'staycation' instead of traveling this season, many are resorting to other modes of transportation to ensure travel plans stay on the calendar. The country's rail systems are experiencing a steady increase of travelers as more people turn to alternative transportation options to meet their monthly budget. Train travel in non-peak hours--especially in bigger cities such as Boston, Austin, Texas and Seattle--has steadily increased in the past three months, according to the American Public Transportation Association, and many city transit systems are looking forward to expansion as trains become a preferred mode of travel for many.

Train travel offers several benefits for passengers, offering flexible schedules, consistent departure and arrival times, and several cabin options for longer, cross-country trips. While some people turn to rail for commuting back and forth from work, others are taking advantage of off-peak travel times to squeeze in a weekend vacation, take a trip across the region, or simply enjoy a different type of traveling experience.

In some cases, the cost of a roundtrip train ticket can be significantly lower than filling up the car with gas, and taking the train also reduces stress about traffic, potential for accidents, and other common travel problems associated with the standard roadtrip. The cost of a roundtrip train ticket can also be much lower than a flight; with today's fluctuating economy, some airlines are adding fees and surcharges to domestic flights to cover their costs. This means travelers may be paying much more than the average on even a discounted ticket.

The rail system, bus systems and cable cars are quickly becoming popular choices for anxious travelers looking for ways to stick with their travel plans this season and work around expensive gas prices. As more cities cater to the increasing demand, many can enjoy more options in travel time, flexibility in scheduling, and even improvements in the overall rail experience.