Taking the Scenic Route: An Alternative to Flying Home

Let’s be real, flying these days can feel like an Olympic sport. Between flight delays, cancellations, and the eternal question of “Why is my seat next to the bathroom again?”, it’s no wonder students are starting to rethink their travel plans. 

But here’s the good news: going home doesn’t have to involve a long TSA line, overpriced airport snacks, and fighting for an outlet at Gate C17. Whether you’re skipping the stress, saving money, or just craving something different, we at The Edge have rounded up a new (well, technically old-school) way to get home this break that’s having its comeback moment: train travel. 

Now I know what you might be thinking: Isn’t that for old people? Trains are no longer just for grandparents heading to see the grandkids anymore. Amtrak has been quietly getting its glow-up, and we at The Edge are here for it. Think: window seats with real legroom, views that make your camera roll swoon, and the sweet relief of not needing to remove your shoes to board.

For college students, especially, this is the ultimate chill mode of transportation. No baggage fees, no running through terminals, and no “we’re experiencing a slight delay” that turns into an overnight stay at the airport. You can read, nap, binge your comfort show or playlist, or pretend you’re the main character in a cinematic “traveling home for the holidays” montage. (We see you, headphones-on-staring-out-the-window person.)

But here’s the real kicker: Amtrak offers a 15% off student discount when you book with their Student Discount Page. That means you can save some serious coin while keeping your travel anxiety in check. Just use this: https://www.amtrak.com/student-discounts and voilà: cheaper tickets, less stress, and a little extra spending money for coffee or that cute scarf you “accidentally” found downtown.

Image: Pinterest

If you’re traveling up or down the East Coast, you can snag routes from Boston to D.C. with cozy stops in between, perfect for anyone who wants to see friends or take a day trip before heading home. On the West Coast? The Pacific Surfliner’s coastal views alone are enough to make you rethink the whole airport experience.

Yes, the ride might take a bit longer than flying, but that’s kind of the point. It’s slower, softer, and way more aesthetic. You get to actually enjoy the journey home instead of sprinting through terminals with your backpack half-zipped.

So, next time your group chat starts complaining about flight prices, drop this gem: “I’m taking the train—15% off, baby.” Watch as everyone suddenly wants the link.

Because sometimes, the scenic route is the best one.

What’s your go-to travel hack this semester? Tell us your secrets @theedgemag!