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Youngest wants to drive me CA to WA, and gift me a return flight after visiting our relatives; afterwards, he'll drive around WA to visit friends, returning later to CA. Amtrak appeals a lot more than 12 or so hours in a car for me. Flying, naturally, is quicker. Would anyone suggest how he could go as my caregiver and perhaps receive a lower fare? Thanks.

If time wasn’t a concern I’d opt for Amtrak every time.
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Reply to ZippyZee
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pronker Sep 16, 2024
Yes - I'm undecided how the trip will play out, myself. My son must take work into consideration, so it's likely flying. Meh.
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I take my 95-yr old Mom on Delta to FL at least one trip a year. She is getting the TSA precheck this September for this fall's travel. I request a wheelchair service at the airport door so that we go through the checkpoint more easily. I always get a direct flight and choose to pay more for better flight times (after 9am departure, early evening arrivals). Get a seat on the aisle if you will need to use the bathroom.

A few years ago I signed her up for Clear. As it turns out, she is so stooped and her eyes so "aged" that the retina scanner couldn't confirm her ID. And her fingerprints are "worn off" so that metric didn't work either, so she had to go into the line with the others in the end anyway. That's why we're doing the TSA PreCheck status from now on.

Airport food is incredibly expensive, so bring snacks. Do not bring any liquid as they won't allow any from the outside to be carried past the TSA checkpoint. You can bring an empty water bottle and fill it past the checkpoints, or just buy a $4 bottle of something.

"Back in the day" Delta had a special "companion fare" but not anymore. Now the cost of buying a seat is a nickel-and-dime fest, depending what airline and what airports. I'm bringing my Mom down to FL and then turning around and flying home the next day. Still no discount for me.

Bring your phone charger and any device to entertain yourself. Download the app of any airline you are flying on and learn how to use it for digital check-in.

I hope you have a great trip!
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Reply to Geaton777
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pronker Sep 6, 2024
Thanks for all the details! I'm pleased your mom gets to travel pleasurably and easily as this, and you as well.
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Good to see you Pronker. Enjoy your trip however you travel. 🧳
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Reply to 97yroldmom
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pronker Sep 5, 2024
Thanks so much. Despite trepidations, it looks like flying will be the most practical, healthwise.
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Amtrak would be fun! the route could be a bit convoluted though with multiple stops (depending on which cities you start and end in), so take that into account. I agree with others to call Amtrak by phone to discuss the cost and route.

if you have at least some of the route on the coastal tracks, the view is beautiful!
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Reply to strugglinson
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pronker Aug 25, 2024
Thx for replying. The trip is postponed till Thanksgiving and would take close to two days via train. We shall see if it happens. I agree re the view!
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I flew for the first timevin 20 yrs 2 years ago. There is so much involved now. I got the airplane app because it was so much easier to sign in. But the hassle with security. At 73 it was just too much for me. I may fly again if its direct but no more layovers. I would do the train even though it means sleeping on it, There are cabins where u can sleep.
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Reply to JoAnn29
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Fawnby Jul 31, 2024
Screening for Passengers 75 and Older
Passengers 75 and older can receive some form of expedited screening through risk-based intelligence-driven security that allows TSA to better focus resources on passengers who more likely pose a risk.

Screening
You may leave on your shoes however; removal of light jackets is required for Advanced Imaging Technology screening.
If the alarm goes off during security screening, you may be required to remove your shoes for further screening or undergo a pat-down. You can request to be seated during this portion of the screening.
Passengers 75 and older who are unable to stand for screening will be screened through other security methods.
Should you travel with medical devices and/or implants, other screening procedures may apply.
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I’ve heard of discounted fares for senior citizens on airlines but have not heard of any for caregivers to take along on vacation .

Amtrak gives discounts for seniors and caregivers . I don’t know if they are available all year round .
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Reply to waytomisery
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pronker Jul 30, 2024
Thanks - I get a 10 per cent discount and hoped it applied to my son, too. The Amtrak site is tricky, do you know how to find out the fare?
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