A family from Northern Virginia has been utilising Amtrak's formal unaccompanied minor service to foster independence in their teenage children, allowing them to undertake solo train journeys of approximately three hours to visit their grandparents. The parents, who describe the trips as part of a "Grandma and Papa Camp," began this practice when their children were under 16 and continue it as a low-stakes way to grant greater autonomy.
The process requires specific planning, as reservations for travellers under 16 cannot be made online or via the Amtrak app. Bookings must be completed by telephone or at a staffed station ticket office. The family must arrive at the departure station at least one hour early to complete paperwork with the station manager, confirming details about the child, their journey, and who will meet them at their destination.
A Structured Journey for Safety
Upon completing the check-in, the child is given a wristband and asked basic questions about their trip. An Amtrak employee then escorts them onto the train and shows them to their seat, which is typically in the staffed café car—a location the family finds reassuring and the children consider a perk. The children remain there for the duration of the journey, often with a table to themselves.
As the train approaches the destination, a conductor ensures the young traveller is ready to disembark. The child is only released into the care of the pre-designated adult—either the grandparents or the parents—who must be present at the arrival station.
Building Confidence and Routine
While the first solo trip was "slightly unnerving" for the parents, the experience has now become ordinary. The children use the travel time differently; their son enjoys looking out the window and photographing familiar landmarks, while their daughter prefers to read. The parents value this opportunity for their children to "exercise some independence" on a short, daytime journey.
A secondary benefit noted by the family is the accumulation of Amtrak Guest Rewards points from these trips, which they plan to redeem for a future family adventure, such as a trip to New York or on the Auto Train service.