The train is a good means of transport, and the stations are often well connected to the bus network, allowing you to travel comfortably.
Steps
Step 1. Plan
If you know the date and time of your trip at least 2 weeks in advance, go to the nearest station or go to the train company's website and book your ticket. This way you could save some money and get a good seat even on a very crowded train.
- Pack your suitcases so you can find them ready when it's time to leave. Make sure you can quickly grab the things you need to put away at the last moment.
- Make sure you have a good breakfast. Not all trains offer a refreshment service during the journey.
Step 2. If you want to buy your ticket on the day you need to travel, give yourself enough time to be able to stand in line to buy your ticket
You will most likely panic if your train is about to leave and you don't have a ticket yet!
Step 3. Try to be at the platform early
Sometimes the carriages are not properly tidied up and you may need to find the one to sit in. It is much easier to do it from the ground instead of having to face other travelers in the aisle of a crowded train.
Step 4. Ask the staff or check the departures board to find out which platform the train will depart from
Follow the signs to get to the platform and pay attention to the speakers for possible changes on the platform. Keep in mind that you may have to go up and down stairs, look for an elevator if the stairs are not suitable for you.
Step 5. Get on the train
Put your baggage in the compartment above the seats rather than on the seat next to you as that seat could be used by another passenger. Just think about how much it would bother you if you needed a seat and someone else was using a seat for their suitcase or feet.
Step 6. Relax
Now that you have your seat you can forget about the rest and be taken to your destination. It is a good idea to pay attention to the warnings so that you have an idea of how many stops there are before you need to get off or if you are approaching your destination. But don't worry too much about where you are, as stops are usually announced with sufficient notice. If there are no warnings, ask the conductor what time the train should arrive.
Step 7. Get off the train
If you have a lot of luggage, try to gather them all and be ready by the door to get off the train. If there is no warning, ask someone which station you are at so you don't get off at the wrong place! Remember to press the button next to the door to open it. It will not open by itself.
Step 8. Pay attention to handicapped travelers
When the train is full, people tend to occupy the reserved seats. If a handicapped traveler or a pregnant woman gets on, those who sit in privileged seats should offer to get up and give up their seats.
Advice
- Don't be afraid to ask questions of other passengers, but try not to stop anyone who seems to be in a hurry, as it could cause them to miss the train.
- If this is your first time traveling by train, it could be a bit scary experience, especially if you also have to make changes with other means of transport; relax and ask other passengers or station staff to help you if you are unsure or confused.
- If you have to jump on a train without having purchased the ticket, remember that you cannot take advantage of any discounts if you buy the ticket on board. In addition, some stations require a ticket before they can access the platform and there may be surcharges for passengers who board without a ticket.
- If you don't like watching others, don't sit in a seat facing a stranger. There will be a lot of eye contact, especially if you don't have a book or laptop, so if you're too shy to start a conversation, sitting in a four-seat is not recommended.
- Have respect for other passengers, don't put the music too loud and if you are traveling in a group, remember that someone may want to rest.
Warnings
- "Make sure you don't leave your belongings." It is very difficult to find lost items on a train and understand where they went. Try to be tidy and don't forget your stuff!
- DO NOT try to get on a train while the doors are closing - you could seriously injure yourself and / or delay the train's departure.
- "Always keep in mind the space between the train and the edge of the track." Sometimes the space is very large, so be careful not to fall and not to drop anything on the tracks.
- Locate emergency exits and the like in case of an accident. It is always useful to know the safety information when traveling on public transport.
- Make sure you buy the right type of ticket - some tickets may only be valid at certain times, with certain companies, or maybe even limited to a specific train. As a general rule, the cheaper the ticket, the more restrictions there are.
- Beware of additional fares - these exist at some stations to penalize passengers who board a train without a ticket or with a ticket that is not valid for that specific route. Additional fares are valid only until the first stop, and you are still required to purchase a ticket for the rest of the journey.
- Remember to leave room for those who have to get off the train and wait for everyone to get off before boarding.
