If you have landed your dream job with IQVIA but are facing a commute there are some things you can do to make your commute easier.
Buy Your Tickets Online in Advance
Although you could still choose to buy the tickets at the station, pre-purchasing the tickets online in advance will save you lots of time and effort. The online ticketing system is not only convenient but considerably faster than the manual/physical machines. Don’t be the kind of person who misses their train because the ticketing machine jammed or wouldn’t spit the ticket on time. Buying your tickets online also means you can take advantage of any offers or discounts the company has to offer, saving you some money too.
Take Advantage of The Train’s Timetable App
Almost all train companies have timetable apps that anyone can download onto their phones, tablets, or iPads. With the app, you can:
- Access the current train schedules
- Plan your trip/commute from the get-go
- Know when your train leaves a certain station (convenient if looking to pick or meet someone).
- Be aware of any train cancellations, disruptions, or any other changes that could affect your travel times or plans.
Choose A Carriage That Aligns Exits at The Train Station
Boarding the train is one thing, but alighting is another. That said, you want to know exactly which carriage will align properly at the train station exits. The exit pole position is where you wish to be when the train stops. This way, it will be easier to alight on time at the exit point and never have to push through other passengers. Being among the first to get off also means you can take a less crowded escalator.
Pick A Train/Carriage with Guaranteed Seats
Unless you are in a rush to get to your destination, it makes sense to pick a train or carriage with seats guaranteed. This is especially crucial for longer commutes and elderly persons. The last thing you want is to spend the entire journey on your feet. While finding a free seat on a crowded train might be tricky, it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t find one. Here are a few tips on how:
- Examine the various carriages: Most people tend to crowd on carriages closets to the exit points. Navigating through the carriages can lead you to a less crowded carriage.
- Evaluate your train options: There are times when you get to choose between a Stopping All Stations train and an Express one. Although the Express train will get you to your destination fast, chances of it being overcrowded are very high. The slower train is less appealing for most people but comes with several comforts, a seat for starters.
- Try different times: There are times when the train after or before yours will be less packed, hence worth it.
- Try different stations: Will you be driving to the train station? If so, why not drive a little bit farther to the next station. Chances are there will be fewer passengers there than here.
Drive Part of The Way
Trains aren’t the most comfortable means of transport, especially for long commutes. Sitting for extended periods can be uncomfortable at times, which is why it would be wise to consider driving part of the way. All you might need to do is start the trip early and drive past several stations before boarding the train. While this won’t reduce the physical distance, it sure will reduce the time you’d have to spend on the train.
Driving part of the way will:
- Reduce chances of train cancellations and the impact it would have on your trip.
- Is more comfortable
- Make the overall journey seem shorter than it is
- It makes it easier and possible to stop and shop before getting on the train
The downsides of driving include:
- Getting a spot to park near train stations can be difficult
- The train might take up more passengers at the first station, meaning a fuller train carriage when you finally board.
