Best Trains & Booking Strategies for Families in Summer
– practical guide to choosing the best trains and booking smartly
Summer vacations are when families across India pack their bags and head out for much-needed relaxation and bonding. Whether it’s the hills of Himachal, the beaches of Goa, or the spiritual cities like Varanasi or Rameswaram, the journey is just as important as the destination. And in India, the journey often begins on a train. With that in mind, here’s a practical guide to choosing the best trains and booking smartly if you travel with family this summer. 
Why Trains Make More Sense for Family Trips?
Before diving into train names and ticketing tricks, let’s look at why trains are a great option for family vacations:
- More space and comfort: Unlike buses or low-cost airlines, trains allow you to move around, stretch your legs, and even lie down. Perfect for kids who get restless easily.
- Economical fares: Especially if you’re a family of four or more, trains offer good value without compromising too much on comfort.
- Baggage-friendly: Unlike flights, there’s no strict baggage limit, and you can carry homemade food, toys, and extra clothing.
- Shared experience: Train journeys are interactive—kids meet new people, play, and see the “real India” roll past the window.
Best Trains for Family Travel (Route-Wise)
While the “best train” often depends on your route, here are a few that are reliable, relatively punctual, and good for family travel:
- Duronto Express (Various Routes)
Known for fewer stops and faster travel, Duronto trains are ideal for long-distance journeys like Mumbai-Kolkata or Delhi-Chennai. They have well-maintained coaches and are usually less crowded than general mail trains.
- Vande Bharat Express
This semi-high-speed train is a treat if you’re travelling shorter distances like Delhi to Varanasi or Chennai to Mysuru. It’s air-conditioned, modern, and has onboard catering. The travel time is short enough to keep kids engaged without them getting bored.
- Rajdhani Express
Connecting major metros like Delhi with Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and more, Rajdhani trains are known for their speed and punctuality. You get meals included in the fare, and cleanliness standards are generally high.
- Shatabdi Express
For daytime journeys, especially between cities like Delhi–Amritsar or Chennai–Bangalore, Shatabdi is a reliable option. Comfortable seating and fast transit make it family-friendly.
- Himalayan Queen / Kalka–Shimla Toy Train
Nothing beats the charm of a narrow-gauge toy train for those heading to the hills, especially Himachal. It’s slow, but children love the tunnels, bridges, and views.
Booking Strategies: What Smart Families Do
Booking train tickets in summer can be a battle. Trains are packed, especially on popular routes. But here are some tricks seasoned travellers swear by:
- Book Early (60 Days Rule)
The Indian Railways opens bookings 60 days in advance. Mark your calendar and set reminders—especially if you’re eyeing AC coaches.
- Use IRCTC Smartly
The IRCTC website/app is the official platform. To avoid a last-minute rush, create an account in advance, save your payment methods, and log in 5-10 minutes before ticket opening time.
- Check for Alternative Boarding Stations
Major stations like New Delhi or CST Mumbai sometimes show a waiting list, but nearby stations (like Ghaziabad or Dadar) might be available. You can board from these alternate stations if it suits your plan.
- Try Premium Tatkal Wisely
Premium Tatkal (PT) opens a day before departure and offers dynamic pricing if you miss the normal booking window. While expensive, it’s often your best bet to secure confirmed seats.
- Split PNR Strategy
Booking 2+2 tickets separately (especially if your family is 4+) can sometimes give you confirmed seats rather than waitlisted ones on a single PNR. Later, use the ‘Passenger Swap’ request with the TTE onboard.
- Check Train Classes and Seat Layouts
For overnight journeys, 3AC is usually ideal for families—it’s affordable and air-conditioned. 2AC offers more privacy with curtains. Daytime trains with EC (Executive Class) are perfect for short hauls.
Bonus Tips for Families Travelling by Train
- Pack light but smart: Carry foldable blankets, power banks, tissues, and snacks.
- Opt for morning or night trains: Kids can nap during travel, reducing fuss.
- Choose side-lower berths for younger children: It’s safer and more accessible.
- Use linen & sanitisation kits: Post-COVID, many trains offer disposable kits. Carry your own, too.
Keep Your PNR Handy for Quick Reference
- Save a screenshot or note your PNR status on your phone.
- Use it to check meal orders, platform changes, or last-minute delays via SMS alerts (*Send PNR <10-digit code> to 139*).
Final Thoughts
Train travel during the Indian summer is manageable—and even enjoyable—when planned. With the right train, timely booking, and thoughtful packing, your family can look forward to a memorable, budget-friendly journey. So, don’t dismiss the good old train next time you plan a summer vacation. It might just be the best part of the trip.
