COVID-19 Update: Cancelations and Modifications

The pandemic changed how many people think about travel, and even today some travellers want to know how to keep a train trip as safe as possible. Train travel, like any public transportation, involves shared spaces and changing crowd levels, so it helps to understand the relative risks. Traveling alone by car limits contact with other people, while flying and public transport mean spending time close to others. One point worth knowing: some research suggests ventilation on public transport can be less effective than on airplanes, which use high-efficiency air filtration. On the other hand, trains often give you more room to move, more choice of seats, and the option to pick quieter departures. Whatever you decide, a few simple habits make rail travel safer, and you can book train tickets on Rail Ninja for less busy times to give yourself more space.

Mask Rules Today: Do You Need to Wear a Mask Wear Public Transport?

Mask rules have relaxed in most places. Face coverings are now generally optional for passengers and staff on trains and in stations, and masks are welcome but not required on most public transport. Amtrak, for example, no longer requires masks on trains or in stations. Learn more about trains in the United States. Even so, masks are shown to offer effective protection against COVID-19, and the CDC recommends wearing high-quality masks on public transportation. During the pandemic, wearing masks was encouraged until most people were immunized, and many travellers still choose to wear one on busy trains, especially during outbreaks or if they're at higher risk. If you decide to wear a mask, make sure it fits well and covers your nose and mouth, and carry a spare for long journeys.

Social Distancing on Board

Physical distancing is still a useful habit on public transport when it's possible. Public health guidance has recommended keeping at least 6 feet from other passengers where you can, and some advice goes further, suggesting sitting at least 2.5 meters away from others. Sitting in the same row as other people increases the risk of COVID-19 transmission, so if the train has free seats, choose one away from other passengers. During the pandemic, operators like Amtrak limited passenger capacity so travellers had more space. Today, you can help yourself by avoiding crowded public transport during peak hours and using booking apps to compare departures, view capacity where available, and choose less crowded trains. When you book with Rail Ninja, add your seat preferences, and check what your car/seat number is before boarding so you can go straight to your seat and avoid close contact in crowded aisles.

Hygiene and Contactless Boarding

Good hygiene is one of the simplest ways to stay safe. Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating and after touching shared surfaces. Avoid touching high-touch surfaces like handrails and door handles whenever possible. Rail operators have increased cleaning, with more frequent disinfection of high-touch areas on trains, and stations and onboard services now mainly use contactless and cashless payment. Amtrak, for example, has introduced contactless boarding across its services. Passengers are also encouraged to use mobile apps for booking and ticketing to reduce contact. In the Rail Ninja app, issued tickets are securely stored and available offline, so you can show your ticket without handing anything over. If you prefer paper, see should I print my tickets?. Wherever you travel, follow guidance from local health authorities and your rail operator.

Before Your Trip: Get Tested and Watch for Symptoms

Planning ahead is the best way to keep your trip safe for you and others. Consider getting tested within 3 days before you travel, and check COVID-19 case numbers at your destination. Most importantly, don't travel if you have COVID-19 symptoms or have recently tested positive. In places where isolation rules apply, travel is prohibited for people who have tested positive during their isolation period. If you feel sick, stay home and change your plans. Before you leave, also check when your tickets will be issued and plan how to find your train/platform so you spend less time in crowded areas of the station.

FAQ: COVID-19 and Train Travel

Is the train the safest way to travel during COVID-19, or is a bus or car lower risk?

There's no single safest way. Traveling alone by car limits contact, while trains and buses involve shared spaces. On a train, you can lower your risk by choosing off-peak departures, keeping your distance, and following hygiene tips.
Who is at higher risk, and what do public health experts recommend?

Older travellers, people with chronic conditions, pregnant women, and anyone with a weakened immune system may be at higher risk. Public health experts recommend that they consider wearing a high-quality mask and avoid crowded trains.
How does the virus spread in train air, and does ventilation help?

The virus spreads mainly through the air in close contact with infected people. Good ventilation lowers the risk, which is why it's a good idea to choose well-ventilated transport and keep your distance.
Should I take a break at the station or stay in my seat?

Stations can be crowded, so keep your time there short. If you need a break during a long trip, step onto a quiet part of the platform, and check what amenities European train stations have to plan ahead.

COVID-19 Update: Cancelations and Modifications

FAQ: COVID-19 and Train Travel

Related Content