Common Mistakes new Commuter Rail riders make everyday
Things to think about when taking the MBTA Commuter rail
I was talking to a fellow commuter rail rider yesterday, we chat every once in a while and we came up with five things that almost ever new Commuter rail users encounter.
Getting to the train station late
Plan to get to the station at least 10 minutes before the scheduled arrival of your train. Don't be the one running as the train is leaving and yelling to the conductor to wait, they won't. Get there early and wait.
Not buying a train pass at South Station or Back Bay
If you get on at South Station or Back Ba. you will pay a $2 premium if you purchase tickets on the train. Get your ticket at the ticket booth and then wait for the train.
Not having the ticket available when the conductor is walking around
Have your ticket handy so when the conductor comes around they don't have to wait for you to find it. If you buy a pass, make sure to put it right back where you got it.
Wear the right shoes in rough weather
The train can be slippery when getting off and on and wearing high heels or shoes with no soles will only lead to a free fall. Pay attention to the stairs as you walk on and off the train.
Getting on the train is "every poor sucker for themselves."
This is mostly true when getting on the train at the Back Bay station. When the train arrives, everyone wants to get on to get that premium seat. Don't expect that everyone will get out of your way to get on the train. If you're going to be a while, because you have luggage or your slow on the stairs, wait for everyone else to get on.
Getting off the train is a slightly different story, commuters are actually more friendly and will have no problem with you getting in front of them to get off the train.
Bring something to read/do on your ride
When you get on the train you may not have to opportunity to sit and look out the window. Bring a book or Kindle with you to read on your journey. Also, keep in mind on some busy trip you may not have a seat.