The American Southwest by Amtrak in 7 Days Without Renting a Car

  1. Book your flights into Los Angeles and out of Albuquerque
    1 hour

    Fix the trip's dates with two one-way tickets: an inbound flight into Los Angeles (LAX) that lands no later than mid-afternoon on Day 1, and an outbound flight from Albuquerque Sunport (ABQ) on Day 7. Two one-ways cost about the same as a multi-city fare on U.S. carriers, and they lock in the days the entire rail route depends on.

    Book in this order:

    • Inbound to LAX — aim for a landing before 15:00. International visitors should allow 60–90 minutes for immigration and baggage claim before the airport transfer.
    • Outbound from ABQ — an evening departure on Day 7 (after about 18:00) keeps the last afternoon unhurried.
    • Book about 45 days out, when fares are lowest and the overnight roomette is still open.
    • Keep both confirmation numbers with the flight times — the Day 1 landing time sets the Day 2 train booking.