How to Book Train Travel From Houston to Los Angeles

When traveling by train between Houston and Los Angeles, you can choose to take either the direct route via the Sunset Limited line, which will get you there in a day and a half, or you can take the indirect route by way of Illinois using the Texas Eagle line, the Southwest Chief line and 2 bus transfers, which adds an extra day of travel.

Instructions

Get the Best Price

1

Pay attention to discount options when you book your ticket. AAA members, Student Advantage members, ISIC members, Veterans Advantage members, NARP members and active military personnel all enjoy discounts when traveling on Amtrak.

2

Choose the most direct route. Besides taking less time, direct routes are also typically cheaper than indirect routes. You don't get a discount for inconvenience. Unless your goal is to see as much of the country as possible from Houston onward, pick the Sunset Limited line.

Book a Rail Pass for Train Travel Savings

3

Buy a North America Rail Pass if you are planning on traveling around the U.S. and Canada over a period of 30 consecutive days. Passes are less than $1,000 and discounts do apply. The North America Rail Pass is good for travel to more than 900 different cities. You have to pay for upgrades to business class or sleeper accommodations, and some restrictions apply.

4

Purchase a USA Rail Pass if you are not a U.S. citizen and plan on taking several trips through the country by rail. Passes are sold in 5-, 15- and 30-day increments. Rules and restrictions apply, so check with Amtrak for details.

5

Consider getting a California Rail Pass if you plan on traveling throughout the state once you arrive in Los Angeles. A great value, this pass is good for 7 non-consecutive days of travel over a 21-day period and costs less than $200 for an adult fare.