Traveling by train can be convenient, enjoyable and economical. You're definitely going to reduce the risk of picking up an injury or possibly theft by simply obeying a few precautionary rules during the travel. Let's go.
Just before you travel.
It is essential to pack very light so that you won't have to worry much about lifting luggage while on the train. If you go hoping to use porter's, you may be disappointed. This is because porters are not usually available in all countries while some do use advanced porter services.
Always ensure to plan your itinerary while thinking safety first. Try as much as possible not to change trains late into the night. It could be risky.
Make proper research on the train stations you'd be using. Make sure to find out if they are reputable when it comes to pickpockets, theft, delays and all that. It's always a good idea to know what you're getting into.
Buy good locks and keep your luggage locked always. You can also buy carabineers or straps with which you should secure your bags to the racks overhead. This will make them even more difficult to steal. You can use money belts or smaller pouch to hold cash together with passports and other smaller items.
While at the Train Station
Don't ever feel you're not a target for thieves no matter the time of the day. Always be on your money belt or pouch while keeping an eye out for your luggage. Make sure all your travel documents and particulars are well arranged so that you don't have to waste time searching for them.
If you are embarking on a long journey by train always make sure to sit in places that are well lit and close to other travelers.
Always secure your valuables before you sit down. Keep your bags locked and hold your cash in your money belt or pouch.
Also, ensure that your luggage is with you always. Don't ever leave it for anywhere unless of course it's stored in a locker.
Try to avoid crossing the train track when heading to other platforms. Always use the marked out zones with a staircase for this.
While you're on the Platform
The moment you get on the platform, make sure to listen to all announcements. If there's any form of platform change or complications you will hear them announced on time. If for some reason everyone in your platform gets up and leaves for another platform, follow them.
Don't wait for your train will standing at the edge of the platform. This is to avoid falling off onto the rails. Also, keep your luggage with you.
Now to board the train.
Make sure you board your train as quickly as possible. This is to ensure that you keep your luggage with you. Try to keep all your larger bags in your view as much as possible.
Always verify if you boarded the right train car and class. Also, make sure to ask if the train car is headed to your destination. It's important to note that not all train cars will head to your destination the whole journey.
Climb the steps of your car with care, they are usually guarded with rails, make use of them. If for some reason you need to move between cars, pay good attention to the gap between them. You can easily lose balance on a train if you don't take care.