8 Ways Train Travel Has Changed Amid COVID-19

Like just about everything, train travel has changed since the outbreak of COVID-19. However, perhaps not as dramatically as one might think. With travel restrictions beginning to lift and the world starting to open up, riders should anticipate some new protocols and requirements aimed at making their experience as safe as possible during the pandemic. Here's what you need to know.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced some rail service providers to temporarily suspend service entirely while others have had to suspend some routes or reduce the number of trains in operation. Therefore, travelers should be aware of their rail service provider's updated schedule prior to booking and certainly before arriving at the station.

As travel suppliers look to minimize contact wherever possible, cashless payment is becoming the preferred method. Electronic tickets and mobile apps that can be scanned from a customer's smartphone will also be encouraged.

To provide travelers with added flexibility and peace of mind during an uncertain time, Amtrak is waiving all change and cancellation fees for reservations made by August 31. Facing a need to entice travelers to return to the tracks, other companies have also targeted customers with promotions and flexible booking policies.

Like most of us, rail service providers are stepping up cleaning and disinfecting commonly used surfaces and spaces more frequently to help in the fight against COVID-19 transmission. Trains and stations are also implementing protective barriers in some places to shield customers and staff.

Masks and face-coverings are essentially a must-have for people entering indoor public spaces these days and a train car certainly qualifies. It's smart to take a face mask with you wherever you go, certainly if you're en route to the station to catch your train.

Whether you're going grocery shopping or jogging in the park, social distancing has become the new normal in the time of COVID-19 and trains are no different. In all likelihood, riders will be expected to maintain at least six feet of space between themselves and others at all times.

Social distancing is hard to do on a full train. Much like airlines, cruise ships and hotels, trains won't be operating at full capacity in the early stages of the coronavirus recovery as officials aim to limit close contact between riders.

Keeping customers safe also requires avoiding crowding at the station and during the boarding process so travelers will likely be advised against arriving too early. For example, Amtrak customers are being asked to arrive only 30 minutes prior to departure.