Upgrade Your Packing List
An umbrella is a start, but smart packing is your best defence against the monsoon. Prioritise quick-dry clothing made from synthetic fabrics over cotton, which takes forever to dry in humid conditions. A lightweight, hooded raincoat is often more practical
than an umbrella, keeping your hands free to manage luggage. Speaking of luggage, invest in waterproof backpacks or use rain covers to protect your belongings. Small, resealable plastic bags are invaluable for safeguarding electronics, documents, and cash from moisture. It’s also wise to pack a separate plastic bag to isolate wet or dirty clothes from your clean ones.
Choose Your Footwear Wisely
Wet railway platforms and slick floors are a serious slip hazard during the rainy season. This is not the time for fashionable but impractical shoes. Opt for sturdy, water-resistant footwear with excellent grip to navigate stations safely. Sandals or floaters with anti-slip soles are a great choice as they dry quickly and provide good traction. Avoid leather shoes, which can be ruined by water, and heavy boots that become cumbersome and smelly when soaked. Having a reliable pair of shoes will make moving through crowded, wet stations significantly less stressful and much safer.
Prioritise Health and Hygiene
The monsoon season can unfortunately create breeding grounds for waterborne and mosquito-borne illnesses. Stagnant water is common, so carrying an effective insect repellent is a must. For hydration, stick to sealed bottled water and be wary of filling up your bottle from station taps. When it comes to food, exercise caution. Pantry car services can be disrupted and the hygiene of platform vendors can be questionable during heavy rains. It’s safer to pack your own non-perishable snacks or use a reputable e-catering service that partners with FSSAI-approved restaurants to deliver food to your seat.
Plan for Inevitable Delays
Monsoon rains often lead to waterlogged tracks and landslides, especially in hilly regions, causing significant train delays or even cancellations. Before you even leave for the station, use an app to check the live running status of your train. Always build extra buffer time into your schedule; a one-hour delay can easily cascade and disrupt onward travel plans. Prepare for long waits by having a fully charged power bank for your phone. Download movies, podcasts, or books in advance, as internet connectivity can be unreliable. Turning downtime into rest time makes the journey far more pleasant.
Navigate Stations and Coaches with Care
Arriving at the station a little earlier than usual is a good strategy, as monsoon traffic can delay your commute to the station itself. Once there, pay close attention to announcements for platform changes or delays. Onboard the train, humidity can make non-AC coaches feel damp and stuffy. A light scarf or jacket can be surprisingly useful, especially in air-conditioned coaches where the damp air can feel extra cold. For safety, avoid standing near the open doors of the coach. The floor can be slippery, and sudden jerks combined with poor visibility are a dangerous combination.
