http://www.amtrak.com/baggage-policy Two carry-ons, which can weigh up to 50lbs. each. My ancient Samsonite 3-suiter just squeaks past the dimensional limits for a carry-on. Up to four checked bags - the first two are free, the second two are each $20. Years ago, I used to travel to and from college via Amtrak with a big suitcase, a duffel bag full of textbooks and another one full of laundry. Apparently, that wouldn't be acceptable today.
If only my business travel requirements allowed for that! I'd love it. In terms of the airport security, I found out long ago that the cast metal underframes of Kadee/Micro-Trains cars sometimes set off the X-ray screening depending on how it's calibrated. So I just tell the folks at the security lines in advance that I have model trains in my carry on, they sometimes set off the devices and they are more than welcome to pull the bag for a manual look-see. They usually thank me. And if it's not busy, we talk about model trains. About half the time they'd tell me someone in their family had them, usually Lionel.
So, umtrr, did you ever get to twin cities yet? I have made it a point the last two summers to stop at SMS and drop some bux. Yes, prices are higher but then again, they have an amazing inventory of N stuff!! They did discount me a bit this time as i spent more than i should have... maybe.
To update the story, I was down at SMS today picking up some parts and I bumped into crappie610! It was nice to meet Chuck and his family, it sounds like they were having a great time in the Twin Cities. I tried talking the staff at SMS into giving him a discount, they didn't say no, but I didn't hang around until he checked out. We'll see what happens! It was great meeting you Chuck!
Thanks to all who replied to my guestion .saw JPWISE there,had nice chat. nice to meet someone from Trainboard. Was in heaven, wife said feet didnt touch the steps on way in . never saw a N scale dept in one shop that big, more things then My basement. Thanks all Chuck BZ&C (Bent, Zigzag,& Crooked)
That's what its all about! The excitement of seeing all that stuff, the social interaction, the whole experience!
Badland, I have been to SMS and to the Twin Cities in general a "double digit" number of times, but not this year. I get to do non-work things on about half of my trips-- it depends on (a) whether I have a car rental (it's not always allowed) and (b) whether I have evenings free after work. It's been over a year since I've been to SMS. My business travel frequency isn't what it used to be... and I can't say I mind that!
