Q&A for How to Travel by Train

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  • Question
    What do I do with my ticket once I have bought it?
    Community Answer
    On the train, someone will come and check everyone's tickets. Be sure to have the ticket ready!
  • Question
    If you don't know where the platforms are at the train station, what should you do?
    Community Answer
    Definitely ask someone. This is better than losing your way looking yourself.
  • Question
    Can I board any train in general wagon with a ticket?
    Community Answer
    Flexible tickets permit this. Others, such as Value or Saver, are valid only for the departure selected at booking. Eurostar Business Premier tickets of all booking codes also permit this freedom.
  • Question
    Do I have to carry my luggage all the time when on a train?
    Community Answer
    Usually there will be a spot above, right behind, or under your seat for luggage storage. Larger luggage, such as wheeled luggage, you will have no room to store, and thus will be on your person. All luggage carried on a train is your responsibility to handle.
  • Question
    How do I know which carriage to get on?
    Community Answer
    Ask the platform staff if they're available. Otherwise you'll have to ask the conductor onboard if you had to guess and board anyway.
  • Question
    Will the train show or announce my next stop?
    Community Answer
    Trains differ and some will have both, though just about all will announce your next stop by automatic voice unless your track is being diverted.
  • Question
    How should I behave in a crowded bus or train?
    Community Answer
    Be courteous to the others around you.
  • Question
    When transferring trains, is checked baggage transferred automatically to the next train?
    Community Answer
    Nope, keep it with you or it will be lost forever even on a train with a baggage car.
  • Question
    Should I get my ticket a day or a week before my trip?
    Community Answer
    As far in advance as possible, as you will have a greater choice of seating options and lower fares. Shinkansen tickets should be purchased the day of your trip, or you could use a JR pass.
  • Question
    How many suitcases am I allowed to have?
    Community Answer
    This depends on the carrier you choose. Amtrak permits 2 suitcases weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Question
    If part of my train journey is by bus, will passengers be directed from the platform to the waiting bus? And will it be announced on the train that the train is terminating at the station?
    Community Answer
    If you mean a rail replacement bus, then yes. An announcement must be made when the train terminates.
  • Question
    How can a hypothyroid patient travel on an overnight train ride?
    Community Answer
    They should discuss their needs with the train operating company, who will make appropriate arrangements.
  • Question
    Are there small rooms available to ask for on long train journeys?
    Community Answer
    If you are travelling overnight, there are often sleeper carriages available for a little bit more money. If they do not have sleeper carriages, then you'll have to sit up or incline your seat overnight.
  • Question
    Do I need a passport for a train?
    Galasy4969
    Top Answerer
    If your train will be crossing international boundaries, taking your passport is advised. If you are getting off in a country that does not have a border agreement, you will either go through customs at the final station in the departure country, or go through a pre-boarding check.
  • Question
    Are trains wheelchair accessible?
    Galasy4969
    Top Answerer
    Most modern passenger trains are wheelchair accessible. Be sure to check with the company to make sure of this.
  • Question
    How do I know which wagon to get into?
    Community Answer
    You may sit anywhere. Some trains have first-class cabins where you may not sit without a first-class ticket. Check your ticket to make sure you're getting into the right wagon. If you can't decide, ask the conductor to guide you to the right one.
  • Question
    How do I use the ticket barriers that are at some stations to get onto the platform?
    Hugo Billiau
    Community Answer
    It differs from location to location. But most use a Ticket/Card system where you put your card into a slot or scan/swipe it and the gate will open, remember to take your ticket. If you have concerns, the best thing to do is ask a staff member.
  • Question
    How do I book a Amtrak trip from San Francisco to New York City? Is a sleeping car arrangement with dining car required?
    Amanda Cousins
    Community Answer
    Reservations are required for that journey. A sleeping car arrangement is required with a transfer and meals are included with your ticket price.
  • Question
    Can you book overnight train services on Amtrak from your hometown with sleeping cars and shower access?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Reservations are required for that.
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