The world of train travel in India offers a spectrum of options, and the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) stands as the central hub for booking tickets. While air-conditioned (AC) travel promises luxurious comfort, the budget constraints often lead travelers to opt for sleeper class tickets. However, what if there was a way to enjoy the perks of AC travel without stretching your budget?
In this article, we unveil a set of strategic IRCTC travel hacks, focusing on the Auto Upgradation feature, enabling you to savor AC travel while holding onto your sleeper class fare.
What is Auto Upgradation feature?
Auto Upgradation is an innovative feature offered by IRCTC that can be a game-changer for budget-conscious travelers seeking AC comfort. This feature automatically upgrades passengers to higher classes at no extra cost, such as Sleeper to 3E, 3E to 3AC, 3AC to 2AC, and 2AC to 1AC, if there are available seats and berths. It is an excellent opportunity for travelers to experience superior travel conditions without the additional expense.
Why does IRCTC offer Auto Upgradation?
During certain periods or on specific routes, there might be a surplus of available seats in higher classes, especially during off-peak travel times. By automatically upgrading passengers from lower classes, IRCTC can fill these empty seats and berths, thereby ensuring that resources are put to optimal use and minimizing potential revenue loss due to vacant seats.
Apart from filling up empty seats, IRCTC offers the Auto Upgradation feature to improve customer satisfaction, attract passengers to higher classes, promote its services, and showcase its technological capabilities. By utilizing this feature, both passengers and the Indian Railways can benefit, leading to a win-win situation for all stakeholders involved.
Why should an individual opt for Auto Upgradation
With the Auto Upgradation service provided by IRCTC, passengers have the opportunity to experience a higher level of comfort during their train journeys. This service allows for automatic upgrades from lower class tickets to higher class accommodations, without having to pay the full fare associated with that class.
How to avail Auto Upgradation
Availing the Auto Upgradation service on IRCTC is a simple process that can potentially enhance your train travel experience. Start by booking your train ticket through the IRCTC website or mobile app. You can choose your desired class of travel, such as Sleeper, Economy, 3AC, or 2AC. There will be an option “Consider for Auto Upgradation”, make sure to check the box next to it.
Here are the steps on how to use the Auto Upgradation feature on IRCTC:
- Go to the IRCTC website or app and log in to your account.
- Select the “Trains” tab and enter your travel details.
- Click on the “Book Tickets” button.
- In the “Class” section, select “Sleeper” and check the box next to “Consider for Auto Upgradation”.
- Click on the “Submit” button.
There is no extra charge if you select “Consider for Auto Upgradation” option, also there is no discount if you do not select the option.
Keep checking your booking status after booking, using your PNR number. If you’ve been upgraded, your updated class of travel will be reflected in your booking details. Make sure to have a printed or digital copy of your updated ticket with the new class of travel. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your journey with the enhanced travel experience.
However, it’s important to note that Auto Upgradation is an added benefit that can make your journey more enjoyable, but it’s not guaranteed for every passenger, and depends on factors such as availability, booking time, and other considerations.
