Can we book two tickets with a different boarding station?

Splitting Up at the Station: Why You Need Separate Tickets for Separate Boarding Points

Planning a train journey with a companion, but starting your adventure from different locations? While it seems simple enough, booking train tickets for two passengers with different boarding stations requires a bit more than clicking a “plus one” button. The short answer is: yes, you can book two tickets, but you’ll need separate Passenger Name Records (PNRs).

The technology behind railway ticketing systems doesn’t currently allow for simultaneous boarding from different stations on a single PNR. Imagine the logistical nightmare: tracking two passengers embarking from different points, managing potential delays impacting one leg of the journey, and accounting for fare calculations across varied distances. This complexity makes a single PNR for such a scenario impractical.

Therefore, each passenger needs their own individual booking with its own unique PNR. This means separate online transactions, separate tickets, and potentially slightly different fares depending on the distance travelled by each individual.

What This Means for You:

• Separate Bookings: You’ll need to make two separate bookings, one for each passenger, specifying their individual boarding stations and destinations.
• Individual PNRs: Each booking will generate a separate PNR, which is crucial for checking in, accessing online information and resolving any potential issues.
• Potential Fare Differences: While travelling to the same final destination, the fare for each passenger might differ based on the distance they travel from their respective starting points.
• Coordination: You’ll need to coordinate with your travel companion regarding meeting points at the final destination, particularly if you have connecting trains.

Alternatives to Consider:

While separate tickets are necessary, you can still streamline the process. Consider booking tickets at the same time to ensure you both secure seats on the same train, if availability allows. Many online booking systems allow for simultaneous booking across different tabs or windows, making the process quicker and more convenient.

In conclusion, while the dream of a single, streamlined PNR for passengers boarding from different stations remains just that – a dream – the solution is straightforward. Separate bookings and individual PNRs are the standard, and with a bit of coordination, this won’t hinder your travel plans. Remember to double-check all details before confirming each booking to avoid any unexpected complications.