Summer train travel in India can be a truly memorable experience. But without proper planning, it can quickly turn into a tiring and stressful journey. Whether you are travelling for a holiday or heading home for the season, avoiding a few common mistakes can make all the difference. Millions of Indians travel by train every summer, and many of them end up making preventable errors that ruin their trip. Here is what you should watch out for.
Not Booking Tickets Well in Advance
This is the number one mistake most travellers make. Indian Railways handles over 23 million passengers daily, and during peak summer months, trains get fully booked within minutes of opening reservations.
IRCTC opens bookings 60 days in advance for most trains. If you wait even a week before your travel date, you are likely to find only waiting list tickets. Always plan ahead and book as early as possible to secure a confirmed berth.
Quick Tip: Use the Tatkal quota only as a last resort, as it costs more and still may not guarantee confirmation.
Ignoring the Right Coach Class for Summer
Many travellers pick the wrong coach class and end up suffering through the heat. Unreserved general coaches can get extremely crowded and hot during May and June. Temperatures inside a non-AC coach can feel unbearable when the outside temperature crosses 45 degrees Celsius in states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and UP.
If you are travelling long distances, always prefer AC 3-tier or AC 2-tier coaches. Even Sleeper class can be manageable for shorter routes if you travel overnight.
Not Carrying Enough Water and Hydration Essentials
Dehydration is a serious concern during summer travel. According to the National Health Portal of India, heatstroke cases increase sharply between April and June. On a long train journey, you cannot always rely on pantry car service or station vendors.
Always carry:
At least 2 to 3 litres of water per person
Oral rehydration salts (ORS) sachets
Coconut water or nimbu paani if possible
Light snacks like fruits or dry foods
Avoid aerated drinks and excessive tea or coffee, as they dehydrate you faster.
Overpacking and Carrying Heavy Luggage
Summers make everything harder, especially when you are dragging heavy suitcases in extreme heat. Many passengers overpack and then struggle at stations, bridges, and platforms.
Pack light. Use soft duffel bags instead of hard suitcases when possible. Carry only what you need for the trip and use luggage services for extra bags if necessary. Remember, most Indian railway stations do not have escalators, and carrying heavy bags up and down stairs in 40-degree heat is exhausting.
Not Keeping Important Documents and Valuables Safe
Use chain locks for luggage to fix bags to the berth ring
Keep your ID, e-ticket, and cash in a secure inside pocket or small waist pouch
Avoid displaying expensive gadgets openly
Do not leave bags unattended, even for a few minutes
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) handles thousands of theft complaints every year. Stay alert, especially during night travel.
Ignoring Train Running Status and Platform Updates
One of the most frustrating mistakes is reaching the station and not knowing which platform your train is arriving on, or finding out it is running 3 hours late. During summer, track maintenance and heat-related delays are very common.
Use the NTES app (National Train Enquiry System) by Indian Railways to track your train live. Check platform details at the station display boards or through the app. This small habit saves a lot of confusion and physical stress, especially with children or elderly family members.
Not Planning Meals Properly for the Journey
Eating unhygienic food during summer travel is a major health risk. Foodborne illnesses spike during hot months because food spoils quickly. Many passengers either skip meals entirely or buy food from unknown vendors, which can lead to stomach infections.
This is where smart planning matters the most. You can order food in train through trusted platforms that deliver fresh, hygienic meals directly to your seat at your scheduled station. Services that offer food delivery in train are now available across hundreds of railway stations in India, making it easy to enjoy hot, restaurant-quality food without stepping off the train. Always choose FSSAI-certified food delivery services for safe and reliable meals during your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q1. How early should I book train tickets for summer travel in India?
You should book at least 45 to 60 days in advance for summer travel, as trains fill up very quickly during peak season. - Q2. Which is the best coach class for long-distance summer train journeys?
AC 3-tier (3A) or AC 2-tier (2A) are the most comfortable options for long-distance summer travel in India. - Q3. How can I track my train’s live running status?
You can use the NTES app or the official Indian Railways website to check live train running status and platform details. - Q4. Is it safe to eat food from pantry cars during summer?
It is better to order food from FSSAI-certified food delivery services available at major stations for hygienic and fresh meals. - Q5. What should I carry to stay hydrated on a long train journey in summer?
Carry at least 2 to 3 litres of water, ORS sachets, and light fruits or snacks. Avoid too much tea, coffee, or aerated drinks. - Q6. Can I get food delivered to my train seat?
Yes, several platforms now offer food delivery in train at major railway stations across India. You can order using your PNR number and get meals delivered directly to your berth.
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