Understanding RAC in Train Tickets: Your Guide to Comfortable Journeys

Have you ever booked a train ticket with RAC 14 or RAC 15? If so, you might be curious about whether you and your friend will get seats on the journey. In this article, we will delve into the details of RAC and clarify any confusion regarding your train tickets.

What Does RAC Mean?

When you see RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) in your ticket, it means you and your friend are on the waiting list. However, the good news is that RAC passengers are typically allocated seats together, so you and your friend should be able to sit in the same compartment. The primary concern is whether you will actually get seats or not, which depends on several factors.

How RAC Seats Are Allocated

A berth is split into two seats for two RAC ticket holders if there is any last-minute cancellation or if any quota allocations remain unsold. If a confirmed passenger doesn't show up, the berth goes to the RAC passenger, which increases your chances of getting a seat.

It's important to note that the RAC status may change to confirmed if seats become available. Therefore, it's a good idea to check the status of your tickets closer to departure time.

Full Berth or Just Seats?

The chances of getting a full berth depend on the date difference between when you booked the ticket and when you plan to board the train. The later the date of travel, the higher the chance of getting a full berth. However, this is not a guarantee, and you might end up with just a seat.

The Status of RAC Tickets

When you have an RAC ticket, it means you are already on the train. The RAC status moves closer to a confirmed berth as the chart gets prepared and there are cancellations. Unsold quotas also contribute to this.

How RAC Tickets are Sold

When all the available seats/berths in an individual train/class have been sold, the railways start selling RAC tickets. If there are any 2A, 3A, FC, or SL berths left after all RAC tickets are sold, it triggers the waitlist.

The tickets are sold in the following order:

4 RAC places in this example Air-conditioned First Class: 02 Air-conditioned First Class: 01 RAC 01 RAC 02 RAC 03 RAC 04 Waitlist 01 Waitlist 02 And so on...

As people cancel their tickets, RAC and waitlist tickets move closer to confirmed berths. Any unsold quotas will be used to reduce the RAC and waitlist positions.

Positive Outlook and Wishing You Good Journeys

Think positively and have the best of luck. Remember, every cancellation brings you closer to a confirmed berth. Meanwhile, stay alert and check the status of your tickets closer to the departure time to maximize your chances of getting a seat or a full berth.

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