The Art of Train Travel: Sleeper Trains

Everyone knows how difficult it is to travel in sleeper trains in India. There are several difficulties that one may face. Here, we tackle some of them and give you some helpful tips to make your journey much better.

Advanced Booking

The trains in India are actually very well organised, and very often, it will be necessary to book in advance. This usually occurs during festive seasons. Advanced booking isn’t always needed, but if you want to ensure that you don’t have a problem with the Indian Railway seat availability, it is best that you do.

Choose the Class Tickets

There are several tiers of carriages to choose from, namely, first class, second class, third class, and AC chair class under the air conditioned classes, and first class, chair class, sleeper class, second siting and unreserved under the non-air conditioned classes. Although 1st and 2nd AC is very good, they are very expensive as well. The third class AC is much more affordable and is quite clean, thus ensuring you have a comfortable journey. If you are looking for the cheapest form of travel, you must pick from the non-air conditioned classes. These tend to be very crowded and can be uncomfortable, but they are great ways to travel on a tight budget.

Arrange For a Pillow and Blanket

It is very useful to have a pillow and a blanket when you travel by train, especially if you choose the AC compartment. It can get very cold at night. However, if you want to get them from the railways itself, then you need to reach the train early. It is recommended that you carry your own pillow and blanket, provided you have the space for this little luxury.

Your Seat Is Your Own

Almost all the time, when you travel in a sleeper train, someone will try and occupy your seat. A lot of the time, they will end up taking it all together. Now, you could go yourself and take someone else’s seat, but then the cycle will continue. The best thing to do is to just sit in the seat you were assigned, and be firm when someone else comes. You have booked the seat; it is your right to keep it. If you need any help, just look around. Very often, you will find someone to help you out, typically the father of a family travelling in the same train.

Snacks and Drinks

Anyone who has travelled by train will know one thing; the quality of tea is excellent. It is so good that you are bound to buy some very frequently. Ensure that you always carry small change with you. The food, in Indian trains, is generally very tasty, although to prevent creating a mess, it is recommended you buy dry eatables.

Secure Your Luggage

One thing that takes high priority is your luggage. Always remember to carry chains and locks to secure your luggage to the bars underneath the seats. It is not likely that someone will steal your belongings, but it is always a possibility. It is recommended that you prepare for the worst and secure your bags. An alternative solution would be to sleep with your bag next to you. This may tend to be uncomfortable, so keep that in mind.