Know the Difference Between IRCTC RAC, Waitlist and Confirmed Tickets

RAC vs Waitlist vs Confirmed Tickets:

Millions of Indians travel by train every day because it’s affordable and convenient for long distances. However, train tickets often sell out quickly, especially during holidays. When passengers check their PNR status, they often see terms like RAC, Waitlist, or Confirmed, which can be confusing. Here’s a simple explanation to help you understand them.

RAC vs Waitlist vs Confirmed Tickets:

RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) means your ticket is confirmed for travel, but you won’t get a full berth immediately. You’ll be given a seat that you must share with another passenger. If someone cancels their confirmed ticket, the vacant berth is automatically allotted to an RAC passenger. This system ensures that no berth goes unused, especially during rush seasons like festivals and holidays.

The Railways introduced the RAC system to make train travel more efficient and to give more passengers a chance to travel even when seats are limited. It reduces anxiety among those on the waiting list by assuring them at least a seat.

A Confirmed ticket gives a full berth to one passenger, allowing them to sit or sleep comfortably during the journey. On the other hand, a Waitlisted ticket (WL) does not allow travel unless it gets confirmed before the final chart is prepared. Passengers with WL tickets should check their status regularly on the IRCTC website or app.

For RAC passengers, the journey usually starts with a shared seat, but if cancellations occur, they might receive an upgrade. Passengers can track updates through SMS or apps like IRCTC, RailMitra, or ixigo.

To increase the chances of getting a confirmed seat, book tickets as soon as the reservation opens or use the Tatkal quota. Morning trains and less crowded routes also offer better chances for confirmation.

Many travelers mistakenly believe RAC tickets mean they can’t travel, but that’s not true. RAC passengers are guaranteed a seat, and in most cases, their journey becomes comfortable once they get a full berth.

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