How to book a train ticket on IRCTC for a budget family trip

How to book a train ticket on IRCTC for a budget family trip

How to book a train ticket on IRCTC for a budget family trip : If you’re planning a budget family trip in India, booking train tickets on IRCTC can be a great way to save money on transportation. IRCTC, which stands for Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, is the official website for Indian Railways and allows you to book train tickets online. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to book a train ticket on IRCTC for a budget family trip.

Step 1: Create an account on IRCTC
Before you can book a train ticket on IRCTC, you need to create an account on the website. Go to the IRCTC website and click on the “Register” button. Fill in the required details such as your name, email address, and mobile number. Once you’ve created your account, you can log in to the website using your username and password.

Step 2: Search for trains and availability
After logging in, you can search for trains and availability by selecting the source station, destination station, and travel date. IRCTC provides a list of trains available for the selected date along with their availability status, fare, and class options.

Step 3: Choose your train and class
Select the train and class you want to travel in based on your budget and preferences. IRCTC offers several classes of travel, ranging from air-conditioned to non-air-conditioned coaches. Make sure to check the fare and availability before making your final selection.

Step 4: Enter passenger details
After choosing your train and class, enter the passenger details such as name, age, and gender. You can also select the berth preference for each passenger if applicable.

Step 5: Make payment
Once you’ve entered the passenger details, you need to make the payment for your train ticket. IRCTC accepts various payment options such as credit card, debit card, net banking, and e-wallets. Make sure to check for any discounts or offers that may be available before making the payment.

Step 6: Receive confirmation and e-ticket
After making the payment, you’ll receive a confirmation message along with your e-ticket. Make sure to print your e-ticket or save it on your mobile phone for future reference.

Tips for booking train tickets on IRCTC for a budget family trip:

• Plan your trip in advance to get the best fares and availability options.
• Try to book your train tickets during the off-season or weekdays as fares tend to be lower.
• Choose the non-air-conditioned classes of travel such as sleeper class or general class to save money on fares.
• Use IRCTC’s “Waitlist prediction” feature to check the probability of getting a confirmed seat.
• Consider booking a train with a longer travel time as fares tend to be lower for longer journeys.
• Check for any ongoing discounts or offers on IRCTC’s website or mobile app.
• Make sure to carry a valid ID proof such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or driving license while traveling by train.

Booking train tickets on IRCTC for a budget family trip can be an affordable and convenient option. Follow the above steps and tips to make your train journey hassle-free and enjoyable.

Here are some additional information and tips that can help you book a train ticket on IRCTC for a budget family trip:

Use the IRCTC app: You can also download the IRCTC app on your mobile phone and book train tickets easily. The app offers the same features as the website and is more user-friendly.

Book tickets in bulk: If you’re traveling with a large family or group, you can book train tickets in bulk to save money on fares. IRCTC offers discounts on group bookings of more than six passengers.

Check for Tatkal quota: If you’re unable to book train tickets in advance, you can check for Tatkal quota tickets. Tatkal tickets are released one day before the date of travel and can be booked online at 10 am for AC classes and 11 am for non-AC classes. Tatkal tickets are priced higher than regular tickets but can be a good option if you’re unable to book in advance.

Avoid cancellation charges: If you need to cancel your train ticket, make sure to do it before the chart preparation time to avoid cancellation charges. IRCTC charges a cancellation fee based on the time of cancellation and the class of travel.

Check for refund policies: In case of train cancellations, IRCTC offers a full refund of the ticket fare. Make sure to check the refund policies before booking your train ticket.

Book early morning or late night trains: Train fares for early morning or late night trains are generally cheaper than daytime trains. Consider booking trains that depart early morning or late night to save money on fares.

Check for seat availability on alternative dates: If you’re unable to find seat availability on your preferred date, check for availability on alternative dates. You may be able to find cheaper fares and better availability on alternative dates.

By following these tips and tricks, you can book train tickets on IRCTC for a budget family trip and save money on transportation costs. Make sure to plan your trip in advance and book your train tickets early to get the best fares and availability options.